Here’s an estate...

Here’s an estate with loads of style – the new Audi A4 Avant! These are the first official pictures of the newcomer, which debuts at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

When it hits UK dealers in June, it will compete with the latest Mercч­edes C-Class estate and the BMW 3-Series Touring. To boost interior space, the A4 Avant is 120mm longer than its predecessor, and has a maximum load capacity of 1,430 litres, or 490 litres with the rear seats in place. The class-leading Mercedes offers 1,500 litres and 485 litres respectively.

The sporty-looking Audi comes with standard LED daytime running lamps, similar to those on the marque’s R8 supercar. These are a чЈ775 optional extra on the four-door version, and help to provide the Avant with a strikч­ing appearance from the front.

At the back are flush-fitting lights, while inside, practical touches include a reversible boot floor. A powered tailч­gate features on the options list.

The A4 Avant will be offered with 158bhp 1.8 or 261bhp 3.2-litre V6 petrol engines. Diesel choices include 141bhp 2.0 TDI and 237bhp 3.0 TDI powerplants. A 2.0 TDI with 168bhp will join the line-up later.

Prices have yet to be confirmed, but a чЈ2,000 premium over the four-door is likely. That would see the Avant start at чЈ23,750. Audi has also announced S line trim for the A4 salч­oon. This adds чЈ2,500 to the cost of the SE model.