If unshakeable stability at all speeds is your priority, the Audi A4 delivers. However violently we attacked the lane-change test, it remained on course and dragged the caravan along behind.
Driven more sedately, the Audi still gave the same reassuring sense of control. Even backing off sharply failed to make the caravan sway.
Need to slow down in a hurry? No problem. The A4 stopped dead from 30mph in just 10.2 metres. It also performed well on the hill start, although some clutch slip was necessary to climb the slope. It was reassuring to know four-wheel drive was there if needed.
The practicality testers rated the Audi just as highly as the drivers, noting the well-written handbook and the 12V socket in the boot.