Audi gets under the skin

Road test

Audi A4 2.0 TDIE SE

Top speed: 134mph ; Combined fuel consumption: 65.7mpg; Emissions: 112g/km; Price: £26,555

Audi’s A4 seems to have been around since the Middle Ages, and the latest version is the eighth generation.

Anyone familiar with the old A4 will be hard pushed to spot the differences, which are limited to subtle styling tweaks to the front and rear and classier daytime running lights. It’s the same story inside — why drastically alter something which already works very well?

The main differences are under the skin, and they have enabled Audi to squeeze better fuel consumption and lower C02 emissions from the A4.

As is often the case, the entry level model is the most satisfying to drive, even if it is not the most refined.

Of the six turbodiesels on offer the 134bhp four-cylinder will account for most sales. It feels bright and responsive, if a little gruffer than some of the other engines.

Fuel consumption is now an impressive 65.7mpg and C02 emissions are down to 112g/km.

Styling is restrained, two sets of twin exhausts being the only obvious badges announcing the car’s greater grunt. They also add to a glorious soundtrack when you explore the upper rev range.