Audi A4 Avant

Performance

The smallest petrol engines will struggle but the diesels will help through the lower gears. There's a huge choice of engines.

Driving

Handles well, even when loaded, but it's a touch stiff.

Feel

Engines complain a little if worked too hard, though the cabin is well-insulated.

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Price

Low-ish emissions mean its good for company car tax, and strong residuals. Cheap at the bottom end, dear towards the top.

Quality

Good reliability and materials.

Safety

Good range of safety equipment.

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Space

The emphasis, oddly for an estate, seems to be on style rather than space. As such it's not a serious load-lugger. Good for passengers though.

Equipment

Alloys, climate control and remote locking on all models, but still no CD player as standard.

Alternatives

BMW 3-Series Touring, Mercedes C-Class Estate

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Pros

All the quality of the A4, but bigger.

Cons

Not as much storage space as you might expect.

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