Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro 272 S line: review

It usually comes down to power, and here the Audi takes the chairman’s seat.With 268bhp and 442lb ft of torque, it monsters opposition like the Jaguar XE, which in top diesel form can only muster 178bhp.

The turbodiesel V6 may only be based on the previous model, but power is up 11%, while CO2 emissions have fallen by a claimed 21% and fuel consumption has improved to 54.3mpg.

That power and torque manifest themselves from just 1500rpm. There is a ferocious amount of grunt available, effortlessly handled by the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

There are paddles on the wheel, but there’s rarely any reason to interrupt the smooth flow of the auto box.

All models feature Audi’s drive select system, so you can adjust the reaction of dampers, steering and throttle but, whatever mode you choose, there’s really not much life in the steering. Even in full all-wheel drive mode, there’s a lack of feedback which limits enthusiastic driving.

Which is a shame as the new A4 handles well. In this S line trim it has lowered ride height by 20mm and that translates into minimal body roll and it’s very composed at higher speeds. The ride is firm, that’s for sure, but never uncomfortable.

Inside you aren’t much troubled by anything, so you have time to enjoy the feel of quality and tight fit everywhere in the cabin. The infotainment and navigation systems all work well and easily, and technically it’s all rather brilliant and comfortable.

The S line trim brings masses of kit including LED headlamps, leather-trimmed sports seats that are very supportive, bodykit, and special suspension and steering wheel.

This is the best manifestation of the new Audi A4 we’ve tried. It’s expensive in S line trim – to put that in context, you can buy the A6 3.0 TDI quattro S line for only another £2000.

But if you’re after the A4 that wins the battle of the boardrooms, then this is it.

Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro 272 S line

Price: £38,135

Engine: V6, 2967cc, turbo-diesel

Power: 268bhp at 3250-4250rpm

Torque: 442lb ft at 1500-3000rpm

Gearbox: 8-spd automatic

Kerb weight: 1735kg

0-62mph: 5.3sec

Top speed: 155mph

Economy: 54.3mpg (combined)

CO2/tax band: 137g/km, 22%