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Audi A4

Latest compact executive sets new standards for quality

Audi front

March 2008

On the surface, it’s a case of evolution not revolution for Audi’s new A4. Unlike the Jaguar XF, the styling doesn’t break boundaries.

Still, a more detailed inspection reveals it’s bigger, with modified proportions. That’s chiefly a result of the front axle being moved forward to improve the weight distribution and handling.

But just because not much has changed externally doesn’t mean this car should be overlooked – or that it can easily be dismissed. The A4 didn’t win a group test in our bumper 1,000th issue without dispatching some very talented rivals. Interior design and quality – much of which is shared with the excellent A5 coupé – is simply exceptional. Pop along to one of Audi’s 117 showrooms and sit in the A4 and the A6. See if you agree with us that the smaller model has the better cabin.

It’s also the first car in Audi’s range to feature the new common-rail 2.0-litre diesel. We’ve criticised the 143bhp unit for not being that powerful, but if you can hold on, a 170bhp variant is in the pipeline.

If temptation does get the better of you, Audi won’t make you wait that long for a car. Even though the company has 4,500 advance orders to fulfil in Britain, the dealers we spoke to quoted between four and six weeks for delivery – no longer than for the Kia Pro_cee’d or Mazda 6.

Then again, Audi hopes to sell 21,000 A4s in total this year – which might explain why the prices we found seem to be a little flexible (see Can I get a discount? (right)).

It’s also worth bearing in mind that you are more likely to get a deal from a volume brand, where turnover is more important than profit margin. On that note, the same is true for big multi-site dealer networks, compared to small single-marque showrooms. As with Jaguar, the best contract hire offers we found were through an Audi garage – £303 plus VAT and a £1,200 deposit could secure you an A4 2.0 TDI SE. Meanwhile, Jamjar.com is offering leasing from less than £400 per month and full purchase from £650 monthly.

However, the majority of A4s are likely to be sold to business users. That means in three years’ time, the first crop of second-hand models are likely to hit the market. While supply will be carefully managed, prices should be very tempting.

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Facts and Figures

DETAILS

AT A GLANCE:

* Price range: £19,890-£30,290
* Running costs: 57.7-85.2ppm
* UK dealers: 117
* Info: www.audi.co.uk
* Our choice: 2.0 TDI SE
* Price: £23,940
* Engine: 2.0-litre, 141bhp
* Econ/CO2: 51.4mpg/144g/km
* 0-60mph: 9.4 seconds

 
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