Whats the best engine for a quickish A4

[dank]

So my father is in the market for a practical A4, and wants to know which engine is the most reliable, fuel economic/ decent mpg ( unlike my B7 S4 ) and also has some decent poke, i have suggested a new S4, but think this is out of budget, what's the next best engine, petrol not diesel!

thanks

[Dr G]

If it needs to be petrol your only real choice is the 2.0T which isn't a lot better on fuel than the S4; nor is it significantly cheaper.

The obvious alternative is the 3.0 TDI.

[Andy JB]

While I value Dr G's views I have to disagree in his synopsis of the 2.0T

I've had one for 5 years, and although mine is the 220hp variant I rate it highly as its been 100% reliable to date, easy to maintain even using an Indy, more than quick enough in most real situations to keep you entertained, handling is decent (ride too hard as normal though!) and returns excellent consumption for its power over 40mpg on a run to mid 30's mixed driving without trying (manual box). Overall a good package IMO.

A also have a 3.0 Tdi which on paper is quicker but is slower & thirstier in reality being a heavy engine albeit in an A6 in this application.

Just check the belt has been done & no noises coming from the back of the engine.