Faults:

Brake caliper on rear sticking at 60k miles; cleaning would not sort this, so had to be replaced. Rear brake pads done at the same time.

Nearside lower wishbone replaced as bushes were worn and causing a knocking noise; apparently common on this car.

General Comments:

Grip is fantastic with the car being a Quattro, traction is rarely an issue. Pulling away quickly from junctions, roundabouts etc can be done as quickly in the wet as it can in the dry.

Handling is OK, the car always reminds you it weighs the best part of 1700kg, even though the Sport spec it does pitch under braking and cornering; it's not meant to be a hot hatch though so this is to be expected.

Initial turn in tends to remind you this is a large car; once on the open road though, and the car is setup for a bend with the power applied, the car grips very well, the weight shifts back and it feels much more neutral.

Over winding A and B roads, the slightly softer suspension allows bumps to be soaked up with little detriment to the attitude of the car mid corner. This is a very safe capable car at crossing ground quickly in all weathers, but don't buy it if you're looking for something which can be grabbed by the scruff of the neck, like a Clio 182.

Performance for a big car is OK at low speeds, and adequate once up and running. The first 3 gears are hideously short, and the car never really feels like it's getting going till 4th. After this point the 3.0 shows its worth and it'll happily take you to license losing territory. Overtakes are dispatched safely with a real world benchmark of 60-80 covered quickly and effortlessly. Being a large capacity engine allows any gear to offer decent shove; 40mph in 6th will give meaningful pull, and to overtake from 60 you never need to change out of 6th unless the gap is small.

The engine is responsive, but likes a drink. Motorway touring gives about 27 at best, but drive it hard and it'll get 20. Normal use returns about 24. It's poor, but worth it; the car needs the V6 to make it feel like the executive car it is; it's creamy smooth, never intrusive and always feels powerful. The 2.4 is underpowered, the 4.2 fantastic, but even thirstier.

Ergonomics are typically Audi, as is the fit and finish. It's comfortable car to be in, and the equipment is good. The sports seats offer good support, and with rake and reach adjustment, a good position can be found. The gearbox is a bit clunky, and the pedal spacing isn't the best, but otherwise it's very good.