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Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV are all common - yet upmarket - sights on UK roads.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

The A4 is a very competent, classy compact executive, but overall it's just beaten by the competition from BMW and Mercedes

Used Audi A4 2008 - 2015

Predictably the diesel A4s are cheapest to run, with stronger residual values and much better fuel economy than the petrols. The 2.0-litre diesels average between 55.4 and 47.9mpg, with the 2.7-litre does 44.1mpg and the 3.0-litre 42.8mpg. Compare that with the 1.8-litre petrol's 39.8mpg, the 2.0-litre with between 42.8mpg and 38.2, and the 3.2-litre with 31.7mpg.

Servicing costs are on a par with those of rivals, but <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a> dealers tend to have some of the highest labour rates. You'll save by switching to a reliable independent garage, or you could try a franchised dealer from one of the other VW Group of companies <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/seat">(Seat</a>, <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/skoda">Skoda</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/volkswagen">Volkswagen</a> itself). They share many of the engines and gearboxes, so should be able to carry out any work.

So far there are few reported reliability issues, and no obvious weaknesses, but the previous A4 has a reputation for being less than perfect, so time will tell.

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The A4 is a very competent, classy compact executive, but overall it's just beaten by the competition from BMW and Mercedes

You'll need a good reason not to consider the diesel models. The 2.0-litre TDI engines, with between 118bhp and 168bhp, are the best option - not only for availability, but for running costs and residual values, too. There's also a 2.7-litre with 187bhp and a CVT automatic gearbox and a quattro four-wheel-drive 237bhp 3.0-litre. There is no auto option on the 2.0-litre engines, but the 3.0 is also available with an S-tronic semi-auto gearbox.

The petrol versions start with the excellent 1.8-litre turbo, with between 118bhp and 158bhp, and a 2.0-litre version with 208bhp. Both are available with a CVT automatic gearbox. The four-wheel-drive 261bhp 3.2-litre is more of a car for keen drivers, but is rare on the used market.

Entry-level specification is good, with stability control, electric windows all round, climate control and remote central locking, while SE adds alloy wheels, parking sensors, upgraded stereo and interior trim, plus multi-zone climate control. The S line version sits on lowered sports suspension, gets larger alloys, and sporty cabin trim and a body styling kit.

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<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Effortless long-distance capability</li> <li>Strong standard specification</li> <li>Low running costs</li> <li>Comfortable driving position</li> <li>Comprehensive yet easy-to-use infotainment system</li></ul>

Executive cars are often the choice of company car drivers, so factors such as CO2 emissions (which govern your monthly tax bill) are just as important as cruising refinement for those long motorway journeys, a plush cabin and (whisper it) the image of the badge on the bonnet.

The good news is that there are options for all budgets and tastes.

Executive

There are some complaints about notchy or noisy gearboxes, but this doesn't appear to effect performance.

Most Audi A4s start life as company or fleet cars. Have a thorough look at the car and check it's been cared for. Heavily kerbed alloys could mean the steering alignment is out, and tyres will wear faster than expected. Also look for damage to the bumpers caused by careless reversing.

Make sure the service history is complete, and that high-mileage cars have been serviced at the correct intervals.

This Audi A4 was designed to beat the <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/bmw/3-series/saloon/review/n91">BMW 3 Series</a> and <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/c-class/saloon/review/n70">Mercedes C-Class</a>, but fell just short. Then again, it retains <a href="https://www.whatcar.com/make/audi">Audi</a>'s restrained styling, so if you're looking for understated elegance, this could be the car for you.

The handling is balanced, and there's plenty of grip through bends. The steering can feel rubbery, but it provides reasonable feedback. However, the ride is on the firm side and the A4 doesn't cope with bumps very well. Watch out for the off-set pedals in manual models.

The cabin is well laid out and spacious enough for four adults. Visibility is good, and the driver's seat is easily adjusted. The boot is bigger than both the 3 Series and the C-Class's. The A4 is no longer the class leader in terms of fit and finish, but the interior is generally good, built with quality materials that have a solid feel.

Used Audi A4 2008 - 2015 reliability

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Used Audi A4 2008 - 2015 review

There are some complaints about notchy or noisy gearboxes, but this doesn't appear to effect performance.,Most Audi A4s start life as company or fleet cars. Have a thorough look at the car and check it's been cared for. Heavily kerbed alloys could mean the steering alignment is out, and tyres will wear faster than expected. Also look for damage to the bumpers caused by careless reversing.,Make sure the service history is complete, and that high-mileage cars have been serviced at the correct intervals.

What to look for when buying a Audi A4 2008 - 2015, covering common problems to check for and overall vehicle reliability.

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Used Audi A4 2008 - 2015 reliability

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