Audi A4 on a par with 3-series

Great build, secure handling and a feeling of complete safety. Throw in good, classy looks, an interior with one of the best driving environments around and a punchy 1.8 litre engine and, hey presto, you now have a car on par with BMW’s ageing, but still brilliant, 3-Series.

Audi’s A4 - successor to the Audi 80 series, which, in its three previous generations sold 4.5 million units since 1972 - follows hot on the heels of the A8 and A6.

Slightly smaller but more modern and chunkier than the 80 - although the increase in wheelbase and track has marginally improved interior dimensions - the A4’s smart and classy dynamic styling reveals a marked wedge outline and low bonnet line combined with wide track, short body overhangs and boldly-styled rear end design giving the car a strong, solid appearance similar to the A6 and the revolutionary aluminium-bodied A8. Slim headlamps add to its smartness.

The driving environment inside the A4 is one of the best I’ve come across. Airy, friendly, extremely attractive and comfortable, the broad centre console and attractive clear instruments are aligned towards the driving area while the front seats are offset slightly towards the sides of the car.

Rear legroom, however, can be a little tight, but there is good headroom. The large well-shaped boot, bigger than the old 80, with its wide lid and flat luggage floor is probably just a little too large and could perhaps have given up a few inches to rear seat passengers. Four wide-opening doors provide easy access.

Standard features include a driver’s airbag, ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, electronic immobiliser, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, electrically-heated and adjustable mirrors, central locking, power steering, front electric windows, front seat belt tensioners, side impact bars, green heat insulating glass and an electric sunroof in the 1.8 and TDi.

POWER: Dished up on our test car by a smooth and very lively 125bhp 1.8 litre (there’s also a 1.6) five valves per cylinder unit providing lots of pulling power and strong torque. The standing start takes slightly over ten seconds to 60mph en route to a top speed of 127mph. Our fuel average was more than impressive at 29.5mpg.

Quiet and smooth yet aggressive, the powerful engine - it had all the get up and go of a two-litre - quickly gets into its stride. Once flying the A4 becomes a very refined cruiser.

New multi-link suspensions and some fine tuning have boosted ride quality and handling has been improved immeasurably, It demolishes the bumps. Much sharper than the 80 of old. There’s more grip and better body control.

Driving the beast is a joy. Nice, comfortable commanding position with plenty of all round visibility. Maybe the power steering was a little light, but you get used to it. Excellent.