Audi - A4 |
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This A4's appeal is that it's understated but not under-rated. A fine family car with more kudos than Passat but lower prices than 3-Series or C Class.
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Quality to rival BMW and Mercedes |
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Lively, economical and refined turbodiesels |
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Wears high mileage well; ultimately durable |
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Tight in the back for a car this size |
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High running costs on V6 models |
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Poor security on pre-1998 cars |
A4's uncluttered lines flatter the traditional saloon and more stylish Avant estate bodies. It's a model of discreet integrity: sturdy, smooth engines; high quality, logical interiors; and the reassuring reliability of the Audi badge.
Handling is civilised, balanced and safe; the four-wheel drive Quattro versions have 190bhp or more, but the front-drive 150bhp 1.8T and 2.5 TDi are very enjoyable. 1.9 TDi turbodiesels lend themselves to open-road cruising but aren't short of pulling power.
This older generation A4 is a value choice, offering more car for the money than a 3-Series of similar age. But running costs rise with mileage; don't pay too much for high-mileage diesels, only buy with complete history, and find a specialist to keep service costs in check.
Shortcomings are few: the Avant has less loadspace than most mid-market estates; and A4 gained only two NCAP stars (out of four) - slightly worse than the late '90s Mondeo.
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1.8T, 1.9 TDi, 2.5 TDi; Sport or SE trim
Base spec 1.6 and 1.8 saloons
BMW 3-Series
Ford Mondeo (1996-00)
Volkswagen Passat (1997-01)
