A NEW exceptionally cost-effective four-cylinder A4 TDI is to further reinforce Audi's position as manufacturer of the widest range of tax efficient models in the premium sector.

The new EU4-compliant A4 1.9-litre TDI 115PS replaces the original 100PS model, and brings more power and torque, improved performance and the potential to travel up to 745 miles on a single tank of diesel.

Compliance with the forthcoming 2006 EU4 emissions regulations brings business users a potential reduction in their annual tax bill of up to £235 (40 per cent bracket), making the new saloon and Avant (estate) models even more financially viable at £19,840 on the road and £20,990 on the road respectively. First deliveries are next month.

Following the 15PS increase in power and 35Nm rise in torque to 285Nm at 1,900rpm, the five-speed manual A4 1.9-litre TDI 115PS accelerates from rest to 62mph in 11.2 seconds - almost one second faster than the 100PS model. Equally importantly, its combined fuel consumption figure remains almost as low as before at 49.5mpg.

To further improve this already highly-rated engine, Audi technicians carried out further fine tuning of the high-pressure pump-injector fuel injection in conjunction with new engine management for better mixture preparation and increased efficiency.

The A4 1.9-litre TDI 115PS joins V6-powered A4 2.5 TDI and 2.5-litre TDI quattro models in fully complying with the EU4 emissions regulations due to come into force in 2006. The A4 range is the first premium compact executive line-up to offer EU4 diesel models which reduce running costs for business users by eliminating the three per cent taxation premium currently levied on diesel.

At the moment Audi offers 21 EU4 compliant diesel models, and more will be added when the new A6 saloon range enters Audi showrooms next month.

Updated: 09:01 Friday, May 14, 2004