2012 Audi A4 Avant 3.0 TDI 204

The recently face-lifted 2012 Audi A4 Avant is now available with a new 201bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine.

The bulk of Audi A4 buyers are likely to opt for one of the four-cylinder 2.0-litre diesels, but the figures for this 3.0-litre unit are impressive nonetheless.

The 0-62mph sprint is over in 7.3 seconds, yet the engine averages 55.4mpg and emits just 135g/km of CO2.

What's the 2012 Audi A4 Avant 3.0 TDI like to drive?

The new engine pulls strongly from low revs and is both smooth and refined.

The standard CVT automatic gearbox allows easy progress once you're on the move, although it can hesitate a little when you want to make a quick getaway.

We'd avoid the S line trim that our test car came in, because it brings stiffer suspension and bigger alloys that make the ride unsettled.

No amount of fiddling with Audi's Drive Select system (a 220 option that lets you adjust the steering, accelerator and gearbox responses) cures the oddly weighted steering and susceptibility to tram-lining, either.

Whats the 2012 Audi A4 Avant 3.0 TDI like inside?

Audi has improved the interior materials for the face-lifted car, and it shows.

There's also space for five six-footers in the cabin, and the offset pedals that usually make life uncomfortable for the driver aren't as big a problem here thanks to the standard auto gearbox.

The boot is fractionally bigger than that of the rival Mercedes C-Class Estate, and its easily accessible because there's no load lip and the opening is wide.

Should I buy one?

This new 3.0-litre diesel Audi A4 Avant gives you all the power you'll ever need, while remaining surprisingly affordable to run.

However, the 2.0 TDI 177 model is nearly as quick and refined, average economy is 3.5mpg to the good, and it's two bands lower for company car tax. Overall, it's the better option.

Rivals:
BMW 3 Series Touring
Mercedes C-Class Estate

What Car? says