Audi A4 Saloon 2.0 TDIe (163ps) SE 4dr Car Review - January 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £27,900
Tax Band: C
Insurance Group: 26
MPG: 64.2
CO2: 115
0-62 Mph: 8.4 secs
BHP: 161 BHP
Range: 890 miles
CarSite Verdict:  4/5
Although the A4 is generally characterised as a car for a business user, it is a large an spacious car which could comfortably provide transport for a typical family. There is a wide range of engines, and this particular incarnation of the A4 is very competitive on fuel performance and also has a very comfortable and well furnished interior.

PROS:  One of the most popular cars for business use in a model that has improved fuel performance and CO2 emissions which reduces the car tax cost, and still one of the most spacious and comfortable cars available.

CONS:  Not quite as powerful as the regular TDI, which is the trade-off for better fuel performance, and doesn't provide an experience as enjoyable as the best rival from BMW.

Behind the Wheel

The A4 offers plenty for the driver in terms of power and acceleration, and the two litre engine offers more than enough power for the majority of drivers. The 2.0 TDIe (163ps) is able to reach 140mph, and can go from 0-60mph in 8.4 seconds. This power and speed can be well channelled through the responsive steering, and has been well balanced. Although this isn't as sporty as might be expected in terms of handling, it is a very good car for regular drivers.

The ride is not quite as comfortable as someone might expect, and suffers particularly from bumps in the road even on motorways which would normally be expected to be very comfortable. The space and seats in the vehicle are comfortable, and mean that most drivers will be happy in the driving seat, and will not suffer too much from the slightly bumpy ride.

Looks & Equipment

The sleek looks of the Audi A4 have been updated in 2008, and improved the look of the front end. Most people who will be considering the A4 will be comparing it with the BMW 3 Series, and generally the 3 series does have the edge in terms of the look of the car. The alloy wheels do look good, but the lip on the back of the saloon boot may not be to everyone's taste. The fittings on the inside are typical of Audi vehicles, and are efficient at what they do, although they may be a little cluttered for some people.

Many of the standard features are to be found throughout the Audi range, but cruise control and bluetooth connectivity will be particularly welcome for those driving long distances for business purposes. The fabric seats are fine, but those looking for a little more luxury may want to upgrade to the 'Technik' pack, which boasts leather seats and a sat nav system among the upgrades.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The Audi A4 is a five seater car that can really carry five people comfortably, and the space for those in the rear is good enough for a long journey. There is the usual range of security features to be found in the A4, although it is strange there is no secured spare wheel. Curtain air-bags and side and passenger air-bags are also available as standard. The three year warranty with breakdown assistance is standard for that offered for Audi vehicles.

One major concern historically with the Audi A4 was that it hadn't scored very well in the Euro NCAP tests, but with the latest tests on the A4 models released in 2008 it was given five stars for adult occupant safety and four stars for children, but only two stars for pedestrians.

Value for Money

The Audi A4 Saloon 2.0 TDIe (163ps) SE 4dr is listed at £27,575, but this doesn't include the Technik pack which is worth considering for those who will be travelling extensively in the car. The fuel performance of the vehicle is quite impressive, with an average 64.2mpg, but is really in its element on the motorway and travelling at a consistent speed.

Audi have always produced premium vehicles, but with BMW pricing its vehicles quite competitively it is a difficult decision to make. The insurance may be quite expensive compared with smaller cars, but the tax is quite good when compared with other competitors in the class. The A4 holds its price quite well, and the demand for these vehicles has been consistently high.

Audi A4 Saloon 2.0 TDIe (163ps) SE 4dr Car Review - by 
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Medium Exec Alternatives

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