2001 Audi S4 Avant review from Australia and New Zealand

The front brakes were replaced under warranty after I purchased the car, however that didn't stop the dealership trying to get me to pay for them!

The front bumper sits badly out of line from factory. The dealership said this is how it was designed to be.

The car has been back to the dealership 5 times to have the centre rear headrest replaced under warranty, however it never seems to get done.

The factory S4 alloys, like the RS4 wheels, were made from a very soft metal, causing them to buckle. This can be felt through the steering wheel whilst driving.

Various mysterious problems with the stereo not playing, but after turning off and turning back on it will then work. Sometimes it won't pick up preset stations when there is a clear signal. Again, will usually find the station once it is reset.

I really enjoy this car for its power and torque, understated looks, comfort (in the front seats), and generally build quality is good.

Power from the V6 engine is effortless and sometimes you can find yourself cruising on the highway at 110kmh in 4th and not realising it, the engine being so smooth and quiet.

Suspension obviously wasn't designed for all-out performance in mind. It can be quite wafty when cornering hard, but does give a good compromise of sportiness and comfort.

The steering can be quite snatchy on anything, but the most perfect roads.

Rear seat leg room is too tight for anyone, but a child. Sitting adults in the back requires significant forward movement of the front seats, which compromises front leg room.

Fuel economy is surprisingly good- 12.7L/100km mixed driving. (And I'm certainly not the most timid of drivers). It is much more economical than my old Impreza STi, which would average around 18L/100km.

It's such a shame that the Audi dealer spoiled what should have been a pleasurable car-buying experience.

Their laziness has cost me so much time running backwards and forwards to the dealership chasing up work that wasn't done. The dealership was so unhelpful that in the end I offered to give them back the car if they couldn't get their act together. This was met by such rudeness from the manager at the dealership, that I vowed never to deal with the company again.

I will most probably buy another Audi, but next time it will not be from an Audi dealer.