In a world crammed with fashionable SUVs and dazzling electric cars, it’s good to know that Audi continues to produce a solid petrol or diesel powered midsize estate car – the Audi A4 Avant. Honed to perfection over several generations, it’s a go-to load lugger favoured by those who need a no-nonsense, long-distance cruiser packed with the latest tech.

Here, we’re discussing the sixth-generation A4 Avant. Launched in 2015, its been updated with refreshed styling and the latest tech several times since. But it will be replaced in late 2024 by the all-new Audi A5 Avant – the A4 name will continue, but on a new family of electric cars. We’ve tested many examples of the existing A4 Avant, covering thousands of miles and every possible use. You can read more about how we test cars at Parkers to reach the conclusions presented here.

The A4 Avant had over a dozen rivals when it was launched but the popularity of SUVs means just a few remain. The latest BMW 3 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate are extremely strong opposition, and there’s deeply talented cars from more mainstream brands including the Skoda Superb and Volkswagen Passat. So Audi’s old stager needs to be good to attract buyers.

Over the years, the A4 Avant has been available with a bewildering array of petrol and diesel engines, ranging in power from 136hp to 286hp. There are no hybrid models. We’re also covering the high performance S4 model in this review; there are petrol and diesel versions, both with around 350hp. Our specs pages show 10 well-equipped trim levels have been available across the A4 and S4 Avants.

On top of all that, there’s also the 450hp RS4 Avant, the rugged A4 Allroad and the A4 saloon range that we’ve reviewed separately.

In short, there should be a version of the A4 Avant to suit pretty much anyone in the market for a biggish estate car. Over the next few pages, we’ll thoroughly review all aspects of the car and rate them in our verdict. Our scores take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run, among other things.