This is a very smooth new diesel, with an impressively revvy throttle response and a wide power band that runs to 5400rpm. It pulls vigorously enough in mid-range to feel sportingly brisk, a well-cushioned clutch and a light gearshift easing exploitation of its capabilities.
A gear indicator in the message centre suggests early up-changes for lower fuel consumption, but performance in sixth is sloth-like. Using this box enthusiastically is about the only time you’ll suspect that this engine is an oil-burner – a distant thrum enters the cabin that’s actually quite pleasant.
But this new engine falls short of what BMW’s recently improved 320d delivers. Its impressive 175bhp allows it a claimed 0-62mph time of 7.9sec, which is well ahead of the 9.7sec we recorded for the A4, and that was only to 60mph. Audi claims 9.4sec in fact, though this is still adrift of what the BMW can manage, and the torquier 3-series is also a better in-gear slogger too.
In contrast to many Audis, the A4 copes well with most short, sharp shocks – and that’s on the optional, lower profile 245/40 ZR 18 Michelin Pilot Sports too. The A4’s ride is now more restful over lumpy roads, and in keeping with its civilised demeanour. That said, bigger bumps are absorbed less well, and if the camber changes frequently the A4’s body rocks from side to side a little uncomfortably.
In handling terms, this A4 feels less inert than past versions. It turns into corners with great enthusiasm – as it should, given a new platform that places less of the powertrain’s mass ahead of the front axle.
It’s a pity then that all this is undermined by the Servotronic steering system whose weighting underlines its artificiality. At very low speeds the wheel is very light – good for manoeuvring – but the loading increases swiftly as you build speed, so that beyond 40mph it becomes almost too weighty. The good news, however, is that Servotronic is an option.
