Audi A4 (04 - 07)

Rating

Quick Summary

Recommended. The latest A4 is much more than just a facelift. A supremely confident car, it exudes an air of quality and refinement. Revised suspension and a brilliant range of engines complete the package.

Full Road Test

Beneath its recent facelift, the A4 has been substantially revised - new engines and a supposedly sportier chassis helping its case against the BMW 3-series. As with the A3, we're not quite convinced by the new "full pane" grille which dominates the frontal styling, but there's no arguing with the brilliant cabin - still the class of the segment in terms of both design and quality. Space is good for both front and rear seat occupants, while the stylish "Avant" estate has a decent amount of luggage volume.
The driving experience has been sharpened up usefully, although the A4 still can't quite match the all-conquering 3-series in terms of raw dynamic appeal. There's plenty of grip to exploit, but messages through the steering wheel about how close you're getting to the limits feel muted. Refinement is good and high-speed cruising is composed.
With the range including six petrol and four diesel engines there's no shortage of choice - with all except the most basic 1.6 litre petrol giving strong performance. Of the petrol units, the 1.8 turbo and 2.0 litre FSI turbo probably give the best compromise between price and performance - V6 options look pricey. For diesel buyers, the mid-ranking 2.0 litre unit is the best all-rounder, although it's hard not to be tempted by the extremely rapid, decently frugal 3.0 V6 TDI version. "quattro" four-wheel drive remains a popular option on top-enders.

Breakdown

Styling

More fussy than the model it replaces, but still a commanding presence in the office carpark.

Handling

Better than before when the going gets all twisty - although it's still not quite on terms with that pesky 3-series.

Comfort

The firmer ride of the new model makes itself felt on rougher surfaces, but high-speed refinement is still outstanding.

Quality + reliability

One area where the Audi dominates - from its brilliant paintwork to the effortlessly classy cabin, this feels like a real quality item.

Performance

Competitive with rivals - except at the bottom of the range. 3.0 litre TDI and 3.2 V6 petrol are particularly impressive.

Roominess

Rear legroom is tight for taller occupants but the driving position is comfortable. Both saloon and Avant have ample luggage space.

Running costs

Expensive servicing is offset by very good residual values.

Value for money

Compared to its immediate rivals the A4 makes an excellent financial case for itself - although it's still worth pushing hard for a decent discount.

Stereo / Sat nav

Basic versions have a decent system but the BOSE-branded set-up that's optional on more expensive versions is brilliant. DVD satnav looks good and works well.

Need to know

NCAP Rating

JD Power stars

Replacement Date: 2008

We like:

1) Effortlessly classy image
2) More sporty chassis settings
3) Performance of bigger-engined versions

We don't like:

1) Underwhelming 1.6 litre base engine
2) Styling that tries slightly too hard
3) Uncommunicative steering

Best and worst:

Most fun: 3.0 TDI V6 or S4
Most sensible: 2.0 TDI S-Line
Worst: 1.6 base

4car says:

Average. "Elegant good looks and a strong engine line up. But it misses the best in class target."

Auto Express says:

"A swift confident drive that's effortlessly stylish."

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