The Audi A4 B7, produced from 2005 to 2008, underwent significant structural changes impacting its performance in crash tests, particularly side impact collisions. This article analyzes the crash test results for the Audi A4 B7, focusing on the improvements made for models built after October 2004.
Side Impact Crash Test Performance of the Audi A4 B7
The 2005 Audi A4 received a redesign including crucial structural enhancements to improve occupant protection in side impact crashes. These changes, implemented in models manufactured after October 2004, did not affect frontal crash protection, which remained consistent with 2002 and later models built after February 2002. A notable visual difference in the redesigned A4 is a significantly larger front grille compared to earlier versions. The certification label, usually found on or near the driver’s door, provides information on the vehicle’s manufacturing date.
The following table summarizes the side impact crash test ratings for the 2005-2008 Audi A4 (B7) built after October 2004:
| Evaluation Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Evaluation | Good |
| Structure and Safety Cage | Acceptable |
| Driver Injury Measures – Head/Neck | Good |
| Driver Injury Measures – Torso | Good |
| Driver Injury Measures – Pelvis/Leg | Good |
| Driver Head Protection | Good |
| Rear Passenger Injury Measures – Head/Neck | Good |
| Rear Passenger Injury Measures – Torso | Good |
| Rear Passenger Injury Measures – Pelvis/Leg | Good |
| Rear Passenger Head Protection | Good |
The image above shows the 2005 Audi A4 and the crash test barrier immediately after the side impact test.
These ratings apply to both the sedan and the station wagon version, known as the A4 Avant. The “Good” rating across all categories indicates a low risk of injury for both driver and rear passenger in a side impact collision.
Technical Measurements and Injury Analysis
Detailed measurements were recorded during the crash tests to assess the extent of occupant compartment intrusion and potential injuries.
Occupant Compartment Intrusion:
| Test ID | CES0507 |
|---|---|
| B-pillar to Longitudinal Centerline of Driver’s Seat (cm) | -11.0 |
The negative value signifies that the crush stopped 11 cm short of the driver’s seat centerline, indicating good structural integrity.
The image above shows the interior of the Audi A4 after the side impact crash test, with the doors removed to reveal the deployed side airbags and the extent of damage to the passenger compartment. Note the minimal intrusion into the occupant survival space.
Driver and Passenger Injury Measures:
Measurements like Head Injury Criterion (HIC-15), neck tension and compression, and forces on various body parts were collected. These measurements, while technical, contribute to the overall assessment of injury risk. The deployment of side curtain airbags and torso airbags played a crucial role in mitigating potential head and torso injuries for both the driver and rear passenger.
This image demonstrates the crucial role of the side curtain airbag in protecting the driver’s head from impact with hard structures during the side impact crash test. The smeared greasepaint indicates the contact points of the dummy’s head with the airbag.
Similarly, the greasepaint on the rear passenger side airbag illustrates how the airbag effectively protected the rear passenger’s head during the impact.
Conclusion
The Audi A4 B7, particularly models built after October 2004, demonstrated good performance in side impact crash tests. The structural improvements, coupled with standard safety features like side curtain and torso airbags, contributed to the positive ratings and a reduced risk of injury for occupants. This analysis highlights the importance of vehicle structural integrity and safety features in mitigating the consequences of a crash.
