THE updated Audi A4 range may look almost identical to the old one bar a few subtle tweaks to the nose and tail, but under the skin the changes are far more substantial.

Prices are down almost across the board, and a host of new and improved engines bring more power to the table while reducing fuel consumption. Couple this with more standard features, and the addition of a hot S4 Avant wagon to the line-up, and you have a mid-life facelift that goes beyond the common formula.

Competition is tough, though, with the all-conquering Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the impressive new BMW 3 Series standing in its way, but our first drive impressions suggest the company from Ingolstadt has done enough to hold its own against its better-selling German rivals.