Design Audi A4

Design Audi A4

The Audi A4 is a great all-rounder that has proved itself to be hugely popular, with more than five million sold since 1995.

This fourth-generation model is a spacious and stylish alternative to compact executives like the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class, offering generous levels of equipment, a great quality interior and a wide range of petrol and diesel engines.

Sporty S line and efficient TDIe versions have a firm ride, but with strong residual values, the Audi A4 is a brilliant car for both business and private buyers. It was given a subtle facelift in 2011, with new LED headlights, a reshaped grille and revised taillights, as well as a simplified, more intuitive MMI infotainment system.

The Audi A4 is a very desirable car, with sleek looks and the best interior of any car in its class. It was given a subtle facelift in 2011, but you could be forgiven for not noticing the changes. The bonnet, front bumper and grille have all been reshaped, but the most obvious change was the new headlamps. Optional LED daytime running lights add an extra dose of class to the front end

Interior Audi A4

Audi has a strong reputation for reliability, which is backed up by its 10th-place finish in the 2013 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey – that’s far ahead of arch-rival BMW in 15th. It picked up plenty of good scores, but it’s too biggest problems seem to be disappointing practicality and levels of in-car technology. The A4 itself finished 76th in the Top 100, though, having dropped 16 places.

It had one of the highest ratings for build quality, but was let down by its higher than expected running costs and harsh ride – the latter suggesting that owners also think that the S line models are a bit too uncomfortable. Everything feels very well made, plus the interior quality is second to none.