Audi A4

Driving
The A4 is a refined, safe car to drive, but not a massively exciting one. High-set seats don't cocoon the driver like a 3-Series, and the front-drive chassis doesn't have the same interactivity (quattro models are not much more inclusive). The gearchange, coupled to a long-travel clutch, is poor, and brakes are soft, while the light steering is lacking in feel and suspension biased towards comfort; it's a smooth cruiser (if loose on rough surfaces) but not a driver's dream. Quattro models are, however, extremely stable and offer superb traction in bad weather - a real boon when you're dealing with the considerable vim of 2.7-litre and 3.0-litre TDI diesels, which are preferable to petrol alternatives. Watch S line models though, which come with sports suspension and large alloy wheels. This package adversely affects the ride, leading to a tendency to fidget over bumpy surfaces.

Marketplace
Take a deep breath before you sit down with an A4 price list; the choice is staggering. 11 engines, five trim lines, three bodystyles, front- or four-wheel-drive and either manual, automatic or CVT transmission. However, all models are very keenly-priced, undercutting obvious rivals such as the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. Most popular are diesel units, particularly 1.9-litre and 2.0-litre TDI variants, in either standard or SE trim. S line spec is costlier and more of a styling exercise, though it does successfully ape the range-topping RS4. That model has a 420bhp 4.2-litre V8, and is a real BMW M3 rival. Lesser 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre petrol engine struggle, while the 1.8-litre turbo is raucous and ageing - better is the 2.0-litre turbo FSI variant. But most A4s are sold as TDI diesels, especially 1.9-litre and 2.0-litre variants; 2.7-litre and 3.0-litre V6 engines are superb.

Owning
The A4's interior is beautifully constructed, but the clinical design does lack the warmth and flair of some rivals. Some trim colours lead too a gloomy cabin too, despite decent headroom. Mind you, when the driver's seat is adjusted to accommodate a six-footer, rear legroom is tight. And though saloon models have a decent boot, don't think the Avant is universally more practical; seats up, the load bay is smaller! Audi has a less aggressive image than BMW, which some find a more appealing long-term proposition. The company doesn't quite have the same number of dealers but all are generally excellent - variable intervals should keep costs down too. Petrol engines can be pretty thirsty, even the 'cooking' 1.8-litre and 2.0-litre turbos, but diesels return superb economy figures. Retained values are down on a 3-Series but still pretty good, and remember, the A4 costs less than the BMW in the first place.