You might buy a BMW 3 Series for its performance or a Mercedes-Benz C-Class for its badge, but what about an Audi A4? For its discretion?
Putting sporty versions aside, the A4 saloon doesn't exactly shout from the rooftops. The B9 generation considered here arrived in 2015, at first glance appearing much like its predecessor.
However, on closer inspection the new model was sharper and more assertive-looking thanks to its sculpted sides, serrated headlights (matrix LEDs were an option) and subtle aero. By adopting Audi's then new front-drive MLB Evo platform, it was a bit longer, too, and slightly roomier.
Power was provided by a choice of petrol and diesel engines trumpeting lower emissions and improved economy. In the petrol corner was a turbocharged 1.4-litre producing 148bhp (it's smooth but a bit lacking when the car is full) and two 2.0-litre engines: one produces 187bhp, the other has 249bhp and was reserved for Quattro versions.
Diesel engines were represented by a pair of 2.0-litres making 148bhp and 187bhp and a 3.0-litre V6 with 268bhp. Ultra variants of the 2.0 diesels were tuned to deliver even better economy.
From 2017, petrol and diesel engines were identified by a new naming convention, respectively 35, 40 and 45.
With the 2019 facelift, the diesels became mild hybrids with revised power outputs. The 134bhp diesel was the 30 TDI, the 161bhp engine the 35 TDI and the 201bhp engine the 40 TDI. The dual-clutch automatic S Tronic gearbox remained a popular option.
Today, there are slightly more petrol A4s for sale than diesels, but if you tow or the idea of 70mpg appeals, you need the latter engine.
Being front-wheel drive, the A4 was never going to best the rear-drive 3 Series from a steering and handling perspective. So it's smooth and comfortable instead? SE and Sport versions are certainly that, but the larger-wheeled and more stiffly suspended and lowered S Line and Ultra A4s are easily unsettled; optional adaptive suspension brings a welcome improvement.
Some owners have reported rattles and buzzes from the dashboard, but otherwise the B9 A4 looks and feels premium. The cabin is roomy, although the driver's footwell is cramped and the pedals are offset to the right. Practical touches include a back seat that splits 40/20/40.
