When Chris Harris reviewed the new Audi RS4 and pitted it against the Mercedes C63 AMG Estate, he said the car is a brilliant RS Audi, but not just as brilliant as the big Merc. The Merc is much simpler and much more fun to drive and to live with. Same is Autocar’s verdict. The new RS4 is technically flawless, almost, but it’s too complicated and has options for fiddling with the chassis and suspension that you don’t’ really need. If it had less computer power and more oversteer, it could be just as good as the C63!

Audi RS4 has a fantastic engine though. Its 4.2 FSI produces 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm, with 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque available between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. The normally aspirated, high-revving V8 accelerates the top-of-the-line Avant from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.7 seconds on its way to a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). This can be increased to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) upon request. However, average fuel consumption is a mere 10.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (21.98 US mpg).