No shortage of muscle from S4’s 4.2 V8 engine thanks to 339bhp that delivers 60mph in 5.5sec and a top end limited to 155mph, but the BMW M3 is quicker.

Huge grip from quattro four-wheel drive and fluency in fast sweeps, but less poised on back roads than an M3, and with less sensitive and accurate steering.

V8 sounds great; road noise well suppressed considering the size of the tyres, and wind noise not intrusive.

Costs less than an M3 to buy but not necessarily to run. Watch residuals as these fall more steeply than the M3’s.

Engine has had extensive redesigning, otherwise all is proven.

A full set of passive and active safety items plus 4wd; security is excellent.

Usual fine Audi ergonomics with bespoke sporty alloy touches.

Saloon is one of roomiest in class; Avant estate adds extra versatility but is not the largest. Four seater cabrio version can take four adults so long as those in the rear are not too tall.

Recaro electrically operated leather seats and sporty additions to usual high A4 spec, with electric rear windows, xenon lights and an uprated CD system

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