Audi A4 – Beats Others In The Class
The Audi A4 ticks all the boxes of a prestigious saloon. It might not have an engaging drive like BMW 3 Series but is more fun to drive than a Mercedes C Class. The Audi A4 looks like an upmarket product with generous standard kit and a broad range of petrol and diesel engine, however the diesels give the best balance of performance and efficiency. The Audi A4 is very smartly designed and is inspired by the Audi 80 of the late eighties. The new A4 has a longer wheel base than its predecessor. All models come with alloy wheels as a standard and the S Line models give a more sporty look with larger alloys and extended body kit. There is an option for day time running LED front lights which enhance the A4’s classy look. The new Audi A4 hasn’t completely beaten the BMW 3 Series in the class but it sure has taken a big chunk out of the difference. It looks more sophisticated yet turns heads when on the road. The estate version is called the A4 Avant which has the look of a saloon with more practicality.
The Audi A4 is a fun to drive car thanks to the accurate steering and well controlled body roll. The ride is quiet and the road, tyre and wind noise is minimal. However it is still less engaging than a BMW 3 series. The fuel efficient TDIe and S line models are equipped with a sports suspension and larger alloys resulting in a firm and unforgiving ride. The SE trim level returns the best balance of comfort and speed, the Quatro is four wheel drive and performs good in all weather conditions. The engine range includes 2.0litre diesel with different guises from 134bhp up to 175bhp, the 3.0litre diesel V6s come in 201bhp and 237bhp. The petrols include 1.8 litre TFSI with 118bhp or 134bhp and a 175bhp 2.0 litre TFSI, while the 3.0litre petrol V6 returns 328bhp.
The 2.0 litre TDI with 141bhp gives the best ratio of performance and fuel economy. The Audi A4 scores five out of five star Euro NCAP crash test rating. The standard safety equipment includes six airbags, anti-whiplash head restraints, electric traction control and stability control and Isofix child seat anchors. Plus a blind spot and lane departure warning system adds to the driver’s confidence. Audi is also well built and quality of the materials used inside is second to none. Inside, the cabin has a luxurious feel. The seats are highly accommodating and fully adjustable.
The dashboard is metal trimmed and all the plastics used are of high quality. The A4 enjoys plenty of standard equipment including Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, rear parking sensors and a three zone climate control. It boasts a massive 480 litre of boot space that can be increased thanks to the split-fold rear seats. Overall the A4 enjoys high residual values and smaller engines are very easy on the environment 2.0 TDIe 136bhp emits 112g/km of CO2- hence cheap to tax making the best option for private and business drivers.
