Audi RS 4 Road Test

Audi RS 4

As stopping is of equal importance as going, especially in the likes of the Audi RS 4, the car is fitted with a self-drying brake system visible behind the scantily clad 19-inch alloy wheels. The huge discs are ventilated and measure 365mm at the front and 324mm at the rear.

But, back to going. Getting into the RS 4 is the one thing you want to do but it does involve heaving yourself over the high seat bolsters while ducking under the roof, especially if, like me, you like to sit quite high. Once settled into the leather-covered, manually adjustable seats, the driver is faced with a rake and reach-adjustable steering wheel, which is flattened at the bottom, so it doesn't catch on your knees.

Don't ask me why, but in the RS 4 you have to turn the ignition key and press the 'start' button on the central tunnel in order to hear the roar of the exhaust before take-off.

The test car's fascia featured the £1,975, Satellite-Navigation Plus, which sits well amongst the carbon-fibre trimmings. Opting for this system then enables the further choice of TV reception for an extra £705. Who wants to watch TV? The optional 6 CD autochanger (£320) that resides in the glovebox is more than enough entertainment for the quiet moments when the ignition is turned off. Alternatively, you can stick with the standard BOSE sound system with a single CD/radio and no less than ten speakers.

Rear passengers also have comfortable, supportive seats but not a great deal in the way of legroom. It is unlikely but should the driver need extra luggage space, the load capacity can be increased from 460 to 720-litres by folding the rear seats.

The Audi RS 4 has no need for big ostentatious spoilers; instead it has the tiniest lip integrated into the boot lid. There are some exterior clues as to the car's performance but they are subtle. The RS 4 sits 30mm lower than the standard car and has wider front and rear tracks, it also features the new face of Audi with a big front grille and mesh-covered air intakes. However, the best show of strength is in the RS 4 badges located on the front back and sides. They leave other road users in no doubt as to what's underneath the bonnet.