Audi A4 hybrid dies before it arrives in the U.S.

It was recently learned that Audi has killed plans to bring the Q7 hybrid model to the U.S. market in 2009 because of the plummeting value of the dollar. It looks like the new A4 hybrid will get the same fate.

Audi USA communications director Jeff Kuhlman explained that the cost of homologating the hybrid system on both vehicles would likely not be offset by anticipated sales of the hybrids. As a result of low volumes and the unfavorable exchange rate, the prices would be too high to make business sense. Instead Audi is planning to offer the A4 with the same 3.0l diesel V6 that is to be used in the Q7 and VW Touareg. That engine is already being certified and has economies of scale so that it makes business sense. At the same time it will provide a significant boost in fuel efficiency compared to the gas V6 that is also available.