• No plug-in hybrid versions
• Diesels the most efficient models
• Mild hybrid technology across the range

What are the running costs?

The majority of the A4 range features efficiency-boosting mild-hybrid technology, but there’s no sign – yet – of an attention-grabbing TFSI e plug-in hybrid version with attractively low Benefit-in-Kind taxation costs.

Diesels, particularly the less powerful ones remain the best choice for efficiency with an easy 50mpg achievable in real-world driving. Note that powerful diesels, especially those with Quattro four-wheel drive, are thirstier. The S4 TDI will get you 40mpg when driven gently – a respectable figure – but driven enthusiastically, that will be nearer 30mpg.

The petrol models aren’t far behind the parsimonious diesels, though. In testing, we easily coaxed 40mpg out of the 40 TFSI in motorway driving, with the 35 TFSI doing even better, getting around 42mpg. 

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Servicing and warranty

Premium-priced cars tend also to carry heftier price tags when it comes to servicing, insurance and parts such as brakes. Servicing plans are available to up to four years, front-loading your costs or building them into your monthly payments. Definitely worth investing in to avoid inflationary rises.

Audi’s standard warranty, at three years or 60,000 miles is less-than generous compared with rivals, but on a par with its premium German counterparts. But you can extend the warranty to four years/75,000 miles or five years/90,000 miles for extra money. But none come close to Kia, MG or Toyota’s offerings.

Reliability

• Mixture of tried-and-tested and new engines for the A4
• Audi generally has a reputable reliability record
• Some recent Audis have suffered from electrical maladies

According to the government’s DVSA recall website, this generation of A4 has been subjected to seven recalls, ranging from problems with seats, airbags failing to deploy, loose trim on door panels, cooling problems and a potential fuel leak. The good news if you’re buying a used A4 is that all of those problems should have already been rectified – check with a dealer for peace of mind.

The engines are a mix of all-new units and those seen elsewhere in the Volkswagen Group range, with no reported major issues, yet – these ones aren’t affected by the Dieselgate scandal.

Inside the cabin is constructed from solid and hard-wearing materials. Our only additional concern would surround the Virtual Cockpit system and the electrics involved, which saw some early Audi TT models experience occasional problems.