So after a 5 and a half month wait I finally picked up my new Audi S4 avant. I traded in my 2006 Octavia VRS on Tuesday after owning it for 2 1/2 years, overall I liked the Octy and would sum it up as a "Does what it says on the tin car" this is not a derogatory comment as I loved the way it drove, looked and carried my 2 dogs in comfort in the huge boot. It never broke down but I did make several claims on the extended warranty and the service that I received from my local dealer was appalling.

So, how do I rate my new car? Well first of all I'm going to try not to compare them as the Skoda was over 5 years old when she went so it wouldn't be fair to compare them on build quality and gadgets, but what I will say is that you get more for your money with a Skoda but I'd imagine that a new Audi will have a better perceived quality than a new Skoda - kind of obvious really due to how VAG market their brands.

Driving wise, I spec'd my S4 with the dynamic dampers and the sports differential and along with the 4 wheel drive it is in a different league to most front wheel drive cars including the Octy, straight line speed aside, turn in is sharper and it is just so easy to get the power down. I had a V8 S4 before getting the Skoda and I thought that was quick but this one is much better. I was a bit sceptical about the DSG box but am a convert now, it is a great bit of kit and can change gear better than me.

So in summary I have no regrets about changing but I will miss the boot in the Skoda.

Nice colour combo too, personally I think a 4wd vrs would be ideal, because my only real complaint with mine is the traction issue, and its not that Sharp round bends (suppose this is an easy fix though with arbs etc.)

Did you look at anything else over the S4, 335i, insignia vxr? Etc.

Nice choice of car ;-)

Nice colour combo too, personally I think a 4wd vrs would be ideal, because my only real complaint with mine is the traction issue, and its not that Sharp round bends (suppose this is an easy fix though with arbs etc.)

Did you look at anything else over the S4, 335i, insignia vxr? Etc.

I agree, a 4wd Octy would be great. I didn't look at anything else, I don't like BMs and the insignia vxr doesn't appeal either but last year I did consider a Passat R36 but fell a sleep when I saw it!!! Their are a lot of great cars out there but the S4 suits my needs and has a good balance of speed and practicality. I was tempted to wait for he RS4 but to be honest the cost of running another V8 put me off and the kids are sick of beans on toast.

Good on you Paul

That is a monster!!!

For the money there is no other car available to do the same, Volvo? Bmw? Etc

If I had the funds I would have one on the drive or garage straight away!! I would love to have the thought of getting in one every day!!!

Nice car. Not so sure about the red leather but if it's your car, then I admire you for making it your own if you know what I mean.

I'm currently in a similar economic dilemma as you when you owned the V8. I have a 335i touring and am sick of paying £450 tax to HMRC and spending £80 a week on petrol due to 25 MPG. So currently considering an Audi A6 Avant 2.0 Diesel 170 Le Mans. I just worry that no quattro means a boring drive.

Never owned an Audi but the interior quality looks fantastic on your car.

I think this will be my next car choice. I was divided between an S4 and a Golf R but I think you get more for your money with the S4.

Car is awesome. Apart from the seats. Personally don't like the colour scheme.

Top motor though.

Nice car. Not so sure about the red leather but if it's your car, then I admire you for making it your own if you know what I mean.

I'm currently in a similar economic dilemma as you when you owned the V8. I have a 335i touring and am sick of paying £450 tax to HMRC and spending £80 a week on petrol due to 25 MPG. So currently considering an Audi A6 Avant 2.0 Diesel 170 Le Mans. I just worry that no quattro means a boring drive.

Never owned an Audi but the interior quality looks fantastic on your car.

Thanks mate, the interior looks more red on the photos it is actually quite dark and just breaks up the interior. The A6 le mans is a great car and you can also get it with Quattro.

Your 335 is meant to be a great car so I imagine that you'll miss it.

I'm currently in a similar economic dilemma as you when you owned the V8. I have a 335i touring and am sick of paying £450 tax to HMRC and spending £80 a week on petrol due to 25 MPG. So currently considering an Audi A6 Avant 2.0 Diesel 170 Le Mans. I just worry that no quattro means a boring drive.

Can you not get a Superb with 170 tdi and 4x4?

Car is awesome. Apart from the seats. Personally don't like the colour scheme.

Top motor though.

Cheers Tim,

Yes the seats do divide opinion and I was unsure when the wife said she wanted them but they look great in the flesh, and go well with the exterior colour.

They do look better in the flesh I have to agree. What are your thoughts on the exhaust note? I personally think it is awesome but others think otherwise. Got me thinking that perhaps the 2012 models have had a tweak with the exhaust system.

They do look better in the flesh I have to agree. What are your thoughts on the exhaust note? I personally think it is awesome but others think otherwise. Got me thinking that perhaps the 2012 models have had a tweak with the exhaust system.

The exhaust note in sport is great, according to a couple of forums the FL model has a new exhaust system which may explain why those who haven't driven one are saying it's a bit quiet.

Ah ok. Il do a search and have a read. I really like it in manual also. The exhaust blip is something I love.