Audi has added a new top trim level to the A4 with the arrival of the S-line that proved very popular on both the previous generation A4 and its A6 bigger brother.
The £2750 premium over SE (there’s also an entry-level standard trim) adds a new steering wheel, lowered suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and a unique front bumper and side skirts.
The enhancements are subtle but lend an aggressive attractiveness to the looks that justifies the £26,175 P11D and 52.0ppm running costs. But with a predicted 60% of fleet buyers plumping for the top-level trim, paying a premium won’t guarantee exclusivity.
While the looks add to the overall experience, the combination of lowered suspension and larger wheels is less convincing on British roads. The reduction in height and resulting stiff ride is welcome on smooth surfaces for the more sporty feeling it brings, but with road quality low on our shores, it could become wearing by the end of a long journey.
However, this won’t matter if you’re blessed with a spine of steel or don’t face a minefield of potholes each morning, and we’re sure it won’t affect its popularity.
Verdict: More aggressive in both looks and ride quality, but that’s no bad thing if you aren’t upset by the harder ride created by the firmer suspension
