Audi A4

Audi A4

Audi has given its evergreen A4 a bit of a mid-life spruce. Owners of outgoing models shouldn't be afraid their cars will lose second hand value, the exterior changes are minimal. Under the skin, however, is where it's all change.

Not long ago a German car company launched details of an all-new car designed for executives looking to travel in style. That company was BMW and the car was the all-new 3 Series. A new 3 Series coming out tends to send a shockwave out through the industry - it's like a new Apple product. A few days later Audi piped up and shared the news that its execu-favourite, the A4, is set to undergo a bit of a change to make it not only competitive, but better than ever before.

The changes were largely under the skin, but did include a shiny new bumper and lights. Just enough, then, to make buyers of the pre-facelift car feel bad about themselves, but not so much that your average person will actually notice any change. A win-win, as it were.

Quality remains a man focus point on the new A4. The glorious thing about Audi's interiors is that they'll outlast your grandchildren. You can spend a day happy slapping the dash and only break the skin on your knuckles. Quality engineering leaks to the exterior as well - the shut lines are tight and the doors close with a satisfying clunk.

An Audi's interior is always a special place to be - the A4 is beautifully designed, built and thought out, though it's not as pretty or timeless as (whisper it) the new BMW 3 Series. The MMI system has been simplified and now features only four buttons as opposed to the eight before. It's also very easy to use - anyone who finds it difficult either still uses a VCR or has such poor hand/eye coordination they shouldn't really be driving.

There are a number of engines on offer - most impressive is the 2.0TDIe with 138bhp, as it emits so little CO2 Mother Nature may send you a thank you note if you buy one. Another highlight is the S4's 3.0-litre supercharged 333bhp V6, but that's because it's simply ridiculous. The engine that'll leave you reaching for a Kleenex is the 3.0TDI with 245bhp. It has so much torque that full application might muck things up for the boys at CERN. Steering feel, thanks to the electric power steering (which saves fuel AND CO2), is a little lacking, but not so much that anyone other than Alan McNish will actually care. It handles rather wonderfully, too.

Four trim levels are available: SE (basic kit but comfy), SE Technik (as before but with nav), S-Line (sporty bodykit, hard suspension, lots of toys) and Black (lots of luxury).

It's a very good car indeed; you'd be a fool not to have a look at one if you're after a new exec saloon.