Category: Compact Executive 
Price Range: £26,190 to £39,825
Quality and solidity, sumptuous cabin, big boot, gutsy 3.0 TDI engine, effective Multitronic transmission.
Feels nose heavy despite new chassis design, unresolved styling, poor rear-seat room.
Lacks a clear personality. Competent in many ways but could have been so much better. The 3.0 TDI Quattro is the best version.
There's no Euro NCAP rating yet, but it would be surprising not to see the full five stars. The engine's set-back position gives more crumple space at the front, and the ample width does the same thing for the flanks. There's the usual plethora of airbags plus ESP and optional cornering lights.
The key logs mileage and servicing needs, and it can optionally be part of a keyless entry system in which case you can leave the key in your pocket or bag and use the start/stop button provided.
