Audi A4 Avant Mild Hybrid 2.0 TFSI S tronic (A) Facelift Review

Wagons are cool. That shouldn't be a controversial statement at all, and yet somehow it is.

While wagons are a dime a dozen in Europe, here in Singapore, wagons are a rare breed. Some attribute to the stigma that wagons are associated with hearses. Also, Singaporeans are less likely to need a wagon compared to buyers in Europe who would have specific hauling needs that include things like skiing or camping equipment. And of course, nowadays, everyone's buying a god damn SUV anyway, so the utility of a wagon isn't quite as unique or appealing anymore.

But, wagons are cool. Hear me out.

Snazzy suit

Audi has recently updated its entire 4/5 model lineup, and that includes a whole lot of models. The A4, the RS4 Avant, the A5 Sportback, the RS5 Sportback, this A4 Avant you see here, and the A5 Cabriolet (which you will read about in a couple of days).

The updated A4 Avant is easy on the eyes. The sleeker front end, reworked lights and distinctive lines running across the flank of the car make for a muscular yet elegant look.

The cabin is exactly the same as in the facelifted A4 sedan. You get a larger 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen with a sleek and easy-to-operate interface. The virtual cockpit plus has upgraded graphics and configuration options. I still wish Audi hadn't ditched the MMI dial controller, but in its place is now an additional storage compartment (perfect for storing your mask).

All in all, it's an Audi cabin anyone would recognise and love - sleek, modern and premium.

Of course, there are upsides of having a wagon. Namely, utility. With 495 litres of boot space, the A4 Avant will meet most people's regular hauling needs, and then some. Need to grab furniture from Ikea? Knock down the rear seats and boot space increases to 1,495 litres.

Smooth operator

On the road, the A4 Avant is delightfully easy to drive. Yes, it's a wagon, but it doesn't feel noticeably heavier or bigger than the sedan version. Indeed, other than the fact that the rear window is rather far away in your rear-view mirror, you can't really tell that you're driving a wagon.

Power comes from a 2.0-litre engine with 148bhp and 270Nm of torque, and acceleration is smooth and breezy. The car also features a 12V mild-hybrid system, which can mildly improve fuel economy, as the car is able to turn off the engine while coasting (in the right conditions).

The well-sorted suspension makes for extreme comfort while driving, while still capable of the occasional jolly jaunt through quick corners.

Cooler choice

The A4 Avant impresses with its immediate sense of familiarity and ease of use. Indeed, from a driving perspective, it's largely indistinguishable from an A4 sedan.

But, where it does distinguish itself is in looks and character - it's just a cooler, more interesting car. And, on top of looking better than the dime a dozen sedan variant, it also offers more overall utility.

Should you fork out $10,000 more for a notch more style and personality? Yes, you should. I certainly would.