Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI (177ps) S line quattro 5dr Car Review - March 2012

REVIEW
List Price: £34,035
Tax Band: E
Insurance Group: 28
MPG: 53.3
CO2: 139
0-62 Mph: 7.9 secs
BHP: 175 BHP
Range: 715 miles
CarSite Verdict:  3.75/5
The 2.0 TDI 177 S line Quattro is a great car, with loads of power and an ultra efficient diesel engine. The low CO2 emissions also make it a good company car option, and equate to low road tax costs.

The S line upgrade from the SE trim is not worth the extra money though because it comes with more or less the same equipment, with the only additions being the sport suspension and larger alloys with some additional style differences.

The four-wheel-drive option also adds to the price.

PROS:  A great car with a powerful and efficient diesel engine. The four-wheel-drive improves handling.

CONS:  An expensive upgrade – the S line trim is unnecessary as the SE comes with most of the same equipment in the cabin. The four-wheel-drive option also might not be needed.

Behind the Wheel

The petrol engine does not suit the A4 as well as the diesel, as it needs far more revs to get going. The car is not a particularly sporty one, but has good grip and handling, with the four-wheel-drive offering much more stability than the two-wheel-drive versions. The suspension however, can be a little uncomfortable.

The engine is 1968cc and uses diesel fuel with a fuel tank capacity of 61 litres. There is a six-speed manual gearbox, which provides smooth acceleration.

Although the cabin is quiet with little road and suspension noise, there is still quite a bit of wind noise around the wing mirrors.

The 2.0 TDI 177 S line Quattro has a 175bhp engine delivering 280lb-ft of torque at 1750-2500rpm and reaches 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds with a top speed of 138mph.

Looks & Equipment

The interior of the A4 is a little bit of a disappointment, as it feels a little cheaper than an Audi normally does.

The seat and steering wheel adjust comfortably, although the pedals are set off to the right, which can be a bit uncomfortable over long distances. The controls are straightforward and without too much complication, but the dash is a bit cluttered. Rear view visibility is good thanks to a large back window.

The S line trim comes with cloth/leather seats, power steering, climate control, stability control, alloy wheels, cruise control, rear parking sensors, MP3 connectivity, Bluetooth and stereo as standard, with optional extras including satellite navigation for £1620 and metallic paint for £615.

For fuel economy, the A4 has a start/stop system and electromechanical power steering as standard, which allows for great efficiency and low CO2 emissions.

Practicality, Safety & Reliability

The A4 comes with stability control, electronic brake force distribution, with twin front and side airbags as standard, although without the hatchback’s full-length curtain airbag. The immobiliser and alarm add to security.

The boot is sizeable offering 490 litres with the rear seats up and 1430 litres with the seats folded down (although they don’t fold down completely). The Avant sits four adults comfortably and is definitely one of the best for space in its class. The leg and head room in the back in very generous.

Value for Money

The running costs are good with the A4 and CO2 emissions are fairly low. The 2.0 TDI 177 S line Quattro model costs £32,875 and has a combined economy of 53.3mpg and CO2 emission rate of 139g/km.

These figures are good for a car of this size and stature, and will equate to low road tax costs and infrequent trips to the petrol station.

The Audi A4 is much cheaper than its rivals, such as BMW and Mercedes and the resale value on the A4 Avant is great, making it a decent investment. Audi promise good service and reliability as well.

Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI (177ps) S line quattro 5dr Car Review - by 
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