When it comes to estate cars, Audi wins in the looks department with the Avant. By the way, 'Avant' is Audi's word for estate and it certainly sounds a trifle more fashionable.
The word estate for many has echoes of van-like vehicles with windows; nothing could be farther from the truth when you consider the Audi.
Performance is another key factor with Audi and the S4 and the S4 Avant are packed with a package of optional performance technologies.
The seven-speed S-tronic changes gears with lightning speed without any interruption in the power flow and the new sport differential distributes the torque as needed between the front and rear wheels.
With Audi Drive Select, the driver can alter the working mode of the engine, S-tronic and the sport differential as desired; dynamic steering and adaptive damper control round off the system.
My recent S4 Avant test example was equipped with the three-litre TFSI engine and is one of the youngest members of the Audi V-engine family - an outstanding example of how the brand with the four rings blends performance and efficiency.
The V6 generates its power from a displacement of 2,995 cc, is equipped with a supercharger, and delivers 333bhp). This can propel the S4 Avant from rest to 62mph in a mere 5.2 seconds.
Equally impressive is the mighty pulling power of this engine, its maximum torque of 440 Nm is available between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The supercharged V6 responds spontaneously and directly to the throttle in every situation. Despite its concentrated power it proves to be incredibly frugal. I managed to average 25mpg and this was achieved under a variety of driving conditions.
Another key feature of course is quattro permanent four-wheel drive. It transfers this enormous power to the road with no loss. Under normal driving conditions it sends 40 percent of the torque to the front and 60 percent to the rear wheels; if necessary it can vary distribution within fractions of a second.
The quattro drive system ensures safe self-steering characteristics, high stability and excellent traction in comparison with rear-wheel-drive competitors. This makes the S4 Avant an ideal vehicle for all weather conditions.
We all like our cars to look good and the S4 Avant does not disappoint. It’s looks are athletic and muscular thanks to striking modifications such as the exterior design of the special aprons, the aluminum-look exterior mirrors, the 18-inch light-alloy wheels in the S design, the sill trims, the restrained spoiler at the rear and the quadruple exhaust system.
The xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights are further distinctive features.
The interior is well laid out, highly functional, aimed very much at the driver and while the Avant does not offer the huge carrying capacity of some estates, it is the ideal vehicle for those who fit into various lifestyles.
No great surprise to discover that like other models in the Audi line-up, a vast array of options are on offer. My test car as packed with goodies, taking the standard price from £35,995 to £48,305. Included in the list, technology package, Audi parking system and open sky panoramic sunroof.
Summing up, the Audi S4 Avant scores highly in terms of looks and performance, not the most practical vehicle in its class, but never the less it is highly desirable.
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Cavok
Was it comfortable....did you even notice?
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