Same old, same old looks hide a real gem of an executive car in the A4, reckons Al Suttie.
1 – It’s telling that it took me a moment to spot the silver Audi A4 in the car park when it first arrived due to looks much like the previous generation’s.
2 – Evolution over revolution might be the styling mantra, but the latest A4 is a revelation to drive in SE spec.
3 – Audi has judged the ride quality to perfection in Comfort mode. Avoid the Dynamic setting as it just spoils things.
4 – The handling is another huge leap forward for the A4. Not as sportily precise as a BMW’s, but the A4 feels nimble and fleet-footed (geddit. ).
5 – 150hp from the 2.0-litre turbodiesel might not be much nowadays, but it’s brisk enough and 99g/km is fine by me.
6 – The supreme refinement of the A4 is also more than fine by me. It’s easily the most hushed and relaxing car in the segment.
7 – Optional acoustic glazing helps here as part of a £450 pack, but it’s money well spent for the impressive calm it adds.
8 – On the inside, the A4 is also even more impressively nailed together than its predecessor.
9 – One gripe in the cabin is the starter button is set too far forward on the centre console.
10 – Another small gripe is the centre console’s layout seems a little haphazard by Audi’s usual standards. Not a deal breaker, though.
