Audi this week announced its new A4, attempting to catch attention in the gap between the Paris and Birmingham motor shows.

Like the Ford Mondeo, the A4 is bigger than its predecessor with a longer wheelbase improving rear legroom.

Other key selling points are said by Audi UK to be increased body stiffness to improve refinement, and better aerodynamics. Audi wants to distance the A4 from volume rivals.

Sales in Germany start in December with supplies to UK showrooms scheduled to be from March. A4 has new 2-litre four-cylinder and 3-litre V6 engines and a pioneering aluminium suspension.