Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

Audi A4 vs rivals

Audi’s latest A4 promises much. Can it deliver as it meets rivals from BMW, Mercedes... and Ford?

Audi A4 vs rivals

BACK when the first copy of Auto Express hit the shelves 20 years ago, Audi was a much smaller firm. In 1988, it sold 18,586 cars here.

Last year, though, it broke the 100,000 barrier for the first time in the UK. Cars such as the R8, Q7 and A5 are pushing the brand into fresh markets, but the A4 is still its biggest seller. And the launch of a new version is vital for the marque’s continued success.

Here we test the latest A4 against two key rivals – popular 2.0-litre diesel versions of the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. Also lining up alongside these premium saloons is the Ford Mondeo. It’s no compact executive, but we think it’s good enough to mix it with such upmarket machines – and may spring a few surprises.

Verdict

THIS test was very closely fought. All three German saloons are great compact executive cars, while the Mondeo was far from disgraced. But the Ford is at its best in more affordable trims, and despite its superb chassis and unrivalled practicality, its engine failed to shine and it has weak residuals. This leads to the highest running costs. It finishes fourth – yet can hold its head high.

Next up is the C-Class. Its air of refinement means it will be a top choice for many, but it’s pricey, and material quality continues to lag behind Audi’s and BMW’s. The 3-Series remains a fierce competitor. Its excellent chassis, brilliant engine and Efficient Dynamics package make it the top choice for keen drivers.

However, it’s no longer our class leader. The new A4 is a revelation – it’s great to drive as well as being refined, desirable, practical, beautifully built and well priced. Audi’s UK sales graph looks set to continue climbing for a while yet.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Audi A4

Audi A4

RRP £34,385Used from £14,824
Audi A6

Audi A6

RRP £39,640Avg. savings £7,364 off RRP*Used from £16,483
Mercedes C Class
BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

RRP £52,195Avg. savings £6,739 off RRP*Used from £31,995
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k
Kia PV5 Passenger - show front

New Kia PV5 Passenger MPV undercuts the VW ID.Buzz by a huge £25k

New entry into the electric people carrier market undercuts the VW ID. Buzz by a significant margin
News
29 Apr 2025
New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645
Kia PV5 Cargo on display at Commercial Vehicle Show - front 3/4

New 2025 Kia PV5 van starts from a tempting £22,645

All-new entry into the van market promises competitive pricing and comes with a range of up to 247 miles
News
30 Apr 2025
New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal
Volkswagen ID.3 Pure Match - front

New Volkswagen ID.3 Match 2025 review: attractive price boosts EV’s appeal

The value-focused Volkswagen ID.3 Match performs well and is easy to live with
Road tests
28 Apr 2025