Audis have a special Germanic build quality and their technology has been tried and tested in motor-sport since the first Audi Quattro in 1980. I recently had the opportunity to attend a review of the whole Audi range (they currently have 50 models) and decided to try out some of their everyday driver cars. The cars I chose were the A1 Sportback, the S1 and the well-regarded A4 Avant estate.

A practical choice
Starting with the A1, it’s very much the entry level Audi – from just £15,150 (on the road) – but the “Vorsprung durch Technik” (lead by technology) DNA seeps through. The interior is a nice place to be, driving position is spot on and the perky 1.0 TFSI engine offers up to 67.3 mpg.

The size of the A1 makes it simple to park around town and a practical choice for many situations. From previous experience, the A1 will also retain good second hand values. The only suggestion I would make is to spec a nice steering wheel – the one on the test car was very plastic in feel. The wheel is a key touch point for a driver and a comfortable leather one makes such a difference.

If you like the A1 but want more in the horse power department, the Audi S1 is worth trying. Competing against the Ford Fiesta ST3 and MINI JCW All4 Paceman, the S1 holds its own. The S1 offers Audi’s stunning rally bred quattro system for superb road holding, it is the faster car with 0-62 in 5.8 sec, and has more power at 231 ps. Costing £25,600, the Audi S1 is more expensive than the Fiesta, but offers all weather security, has a high-quality interior and is available in three and five door versions.

A permanent feature on the school run
The final car I tested was the A4 Avant (Estate) – a car which over the years has become a trademark for Audi. This model is so practical and has become a permanent feature on the school run, at country shows and for business users who need the huge luggage capacity. The Avant is a class leader in this respect, with 505 litres of space with the seats up and 1,510 litres with them down. The quattro system features as standard and the new Avant is 110kg lighter than its predecessor.

Years of reliable motoring
The A4 Avant (in 2.0 TDI form) comes in a touch cheaper than its BMW and Mercedes equivalents at £31,500 and is slightly more fuel efficient (70.6mpg). The A4 also looks the part – it has had a few styling changes, but Audi always make subtle additions and their cars age so well. The A4 is like a well-bred German explorer, often covered in mud and dust but, with a wash down, can turn up at a sophisticated evening event and gravitate respect.

All three Audi’s are fantastic purchases, they will hold their money well, provide years of reliable motoring and the badge has proven motor-sport heritage to ensure it is welcome everywhere.