The 2019 Audi S4 Avant (B9) is the ultimate "Q-Car"—a high-performance vehicle that flies under the radar. Origin: Germany (Ingolstadt). To the untrained eye, it looks like a standard A4 estate. To the enthusiast, the quad exhaust tips and silver mirrors signal 354 horsepower of Quattro-grip goodness. It is faster than a sports car but can carry a washing machine in the back.

One engine to rule them all (in the JDM/Kenya market):

• 3.0L V6 Turbo (TFSI) STANDARD
  354 HP / 500 Nm. This "Hot V" engine has the turbocharger placed inside the V of the engine for instant response. It is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic (torque converter), which is smoother in traffic than the old S-Tronic dual-clutch.

• Build Quality: Audi interiors are the benchmark. Everything feels solid. The S4 adds carbon fiber trim and diamond-stitched Nappa leather sports seats with a massage function.
• The Avant Body: 505 Litres of boot space (seats up). It is practical enough for a family of four, easily accommodating school bags and groceries simultaneously.

The Virtual Cockpit is standard on S models. It places the tachometer front and center. The MMI system is controlled by a click-wheel, which is far superior to touchscreens while driving fast on bumpy roads.

• Consumption: 8–10 km/l. Surprisingly decent if you leave it in "Comfort" mode and use the coasting function.
• Service: High. The V6 is packed tightly into the engine bay, making labor expensive. Suspension arms are complex multi-link items that wear out on Kenyan roads.

• Quattro Grip: The mechanical center differential splits torque 40:60 (front:rear) by default but can send up to 85% to the rear. It provides immense confidence in the rain.
• Clearance: Lower than a standard A4 (approx 125mm). You must be careful. It is a highway missile, not a gravel rally car.

5-Star Euro NCAP. The switch to the 8-speed ZF gearbox (from the DSG) significantly improved reliability in stop-start traffic.

Who is this for? The family man who secretly wishes he was a rally driver. Who is it NOT for? Those who think "Estate" equals "Boring."