Audi A6 3.2 FSI V6 Quattro SE

From next month, however, there's a major new contender arriving, as the all-new Audi A6 hits British roads. We have already reported on left-hand-drive European versions, but now we are first behind the wheel of an early UK example of the executive challenger.

The model driven here is the mid-range 255bhp, 3.2-litre V6 quattro, priced ΂£33,525. However, front-wheel-drive versions are also available in a line-up that includes CVT gearboxes, plus a trio of diesels and three petrol engines, ranging from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit to a potent 4.2-litre V8.

The A6's controversial nose treatment certainly turns heads, but the overall styling exudes the quality we've come to expect from the Ingolstadt marque, with an elegance that's highlighted by the A8-inspired tail.

Comfort
Inside, the cabin offers so much space it could compete with larger executive cars for comfort. There's a vast amount of legroom, and the boot is huge, too.

From behind the wheel, the dashboard and instrument cluster are neatly laid out and beautifully built, while Audi's impressive MMI (Multi-Media Interface) operating system groups the A6's air-conditioning, audio and navigation controls into one user-friendly display. Add in the relative lack of wind, road and engine noise that intrudes into the interior, and the newcomer makes a refined long-distance cruiser.

The 3.2-litre FSI petrol engine is as impressive as the interior, and complies with Euro IV emissions regulations. A power output of 255bhp betters its key rivals, and with 90 per cent of its maximum 330Nm of torque available between 2,400 and 5,500rpm, in-gear acceleration is deceptively quick.

The automatic box shifts seamlessly through its six ratios, helping the A6 cover 0-60mph in 7.1 seconds. Yet while the engine sounds good, working it hard sees fuel consumption drop below the 25.6mpg claimed by Audi.

Thanks to four-wheel-drive, power is put down effortlessly, and the A6 grips well through the corners. However, the car's size and weight mean it's prone to occasionally pushing its nose wide during harder cornering.

The suspension offers a firm ride, yet remains comfortable, even on poor surfaces. But the electronic steering is a letdown. Unusually light at low speeds, it feels artificial and gives little feedback on the move. This is a minor quibble, though, on a fine package.