The estate version of Audi’s excellent new A4, driven here in 190hp 2.0-litre diesel form, the second up of the four diesel options.
Why is it interesting?
Audi’s new upper medium model has pushed the A4 back into being serious competition for the BMW 3-series in particular, with refinement, interior quality and boot space – which is a touch better than BMW or Mercedes estate rivals – being key strengths.
How are the running costs?
The A4 Avant is slightly cheaper than its two key rivals, but all three are covered by less than £600, and the Audi has the best residual value at 41.1% versus 40.3% for the C-class estate and 36.7% for the 320d Touring. Efficiency figures are close between all three of these core competitors in the premium estate area of the upper medium market.
Any other business?
Our 190hp front-wheel drive test car struggled for traction more than might have been expected, and while the top-spec S-line trim is lavishly appointed, it’s still easy to add thousands of pounds to the P11D by raiding the options list. It’s also a shame that, as with the saloon, the styling is too close to the previous model to make it clear this is the new and improved one.