Audi A4 – Outperforms others in the class
The Audi A4 meets all the requirements of a prestigious sedan. It may not have attractive handling like the BMW 3 Series, but it’s more fun to drive than a Mercedes C-Class. The Audi A4 looks like a high-end product with a generous standard kit and a wide range of petrol and diesel engines; however, diesels offer the best balance between performance and efficiency. The Audi A4 has a very clever design and is inspired by the Audi 80 of the late eighties. The new A4 has a longer wheelbase than its predecessor. All models come with alloy wheels as standard, and S Line models get a sportier look with larger alloy wheels and an extended body kit. There is an option for LED daytime running headlights which enhance the A4’s stylish look. The new Audi A4 hasn’t outright beaten the BMW 3 Series in its class, but it has certainly made up a lot of the difference. It looks more sophisticated but catches the eye when on the go. The station wagon version is called the A4 Avant and looks like a sedan with more practicality.
The Audi A4 is a fun car to drive thanks to precise steering and well-controlled body roll. The ride is quiet, and noise from the road, tires, and wind is minimal. However, it is still less attractive than a BMW 3 series. The fuel-efficient TDIe and S line models are equipped with a sport suspension and larger alloys that result in a firm and unforgiving ride. The SE trim level offers the best balance between comfort and speed, the Quatro has four-wheel drive and performs well in all weather conditions. The engine range includes 2.0-litre diesels with different versions from 134bhp to 175bhp, the 3.0-litre V6 diesels come in 201bhp and 237bhp. Petrol engines include a 1.8-litre TFSI with 118 or 134bhp and a 175bhp 2.0-litre TFSI, while the 3.0-litre V6 petrol makes 328bhp.
The 2.0-litre TDI with 141PS offers the best ratio of performance to fuel economy. The Audi A4 gets five out of five stars in Euro NCAP crash tests. Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, anti-whiplash headrests, electric traction control and stability control, and Isofix anchorages for child seats. In addition, a blind spot and lane departure warning system increases driver confidence. Audi is also well built and the quality of the materials used in the interior is second to none. Inside, the cabin has a luxurious feel. The seats are very comfortable and fully adjustable.
The dashboard is finished in metal and all the plastics used are of high quality. The A4 enjoys a host of standard equipment including Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and a tri-zone climate control. It features a massive 480-litre boot space which can be increased thanks to split-folding rear seats. Overall, the A4 enjoys high residual values and the smaller engines are very environmentally friendly: the 136PS 2.0 TDIe emits 112g/km CO2, so it’s cheap to tax, making it the best option for private and commercial drivers.