THE A4's base engine is the 92kW, 1.8-litre, 20-valve, four-cylinder with five-speed manual transmission.

With only 173Nm of torque available, at a fairly high 3950rpm, constant revs are required for brisk progress.

There is also the optional four-speed automatic featuring 'DSP' that varies gear up-shift points according to driving style.

Arguably the best version of the A4 is the 110kW turbocharged 1.8T. It is available in either five-speed manual or five-speed automatic form and is fast, economical and refined.

The 30-valve, 2.8-litre V6 quattro version is a well- equipped alternative to the rear-driven BMW 328i.

The A4's interior features high standards of build quality and an attractive, ergonomically-designed dashboard. The instrumentation is clear and easy to read although the red back-lighting may not be to everybody's taste.

Some of the darker interior hues also make the A4 seem sombre.

The A4 is a little tight for space in the back seat, suiting its maker's classification as being a "sports sedan" rather than a family-style conveyance.

The Avant station wagon came in late 1996 but its meagre carrying capacity makes it more like a five-door hatch.

- Automotive NetWorks 03/02/1999