IT'S Spring, a time of new growth and fresh prospects, and, according to Audi, the perfect time to launch the new A4 Avant. It's certainly grown alright. It's now larger in every dimension, with improved passenger space and, claims Audi, the largest in class luggage space.

A revised engine line up adds to the Avant's appeal, petrol engines are FSI, all 4-cylinder engines get turbo power while the diesel units now use common rail technology, giving lower fuel consumption and more power across the range. It also comes with a host of technical features, such as dynamic steering, a parking system, lane departure warning and blind spot warning side assist, the majority of which are optional, but brings the Avant in line with its competitors' drive assist systems.

It's a smooth looking machine. Despite its substantial growth, the estate has a svelte shape. Fast flowing lines give it an elegant appearance and its taut design is complemented by an early sloping roof line which bestows a coupe-like look. A "tornado line" runs from the distinctive headlamps to the rear and is yet another example of Audi's achievements in balancing form with aerodynamic function.

In true Audi fashion the cockpit is organised in a neat and logical format, the centre console is angled towards the driver and controls are laid out in a regimented, military-like style, despite the overwhelming amount of buttons.

Audi's MMI interface controls the entertainment, comfort and navigation functions and is fortunately relatively intuitive to use in contrast to the busy surface that is slightly confusing to navigate around. The estate follows the same engineering layout as the saloon, which sees the front axle moved forwards, resulting in more passenger space and better handling through optimising weight distribution.

Overall it's been a good call made by Audi. The ride is much improved over its predecessor. It's more composed for a start, while the steering is more precise, better weighted, particularly at speed, and gives a degree of feel to the driver. The re-distribution of weight has led to better balancing in the car, which means it turns into corners with more confidence than it's predecessor.

While the reconfigured suspension has lessened the Avant's tendency to understeer, it has not negated it entirely when cornering at handling limits, although the dynamic steering option, available for engines delivering 160bhp or more, can remedy this to a degree. The system varies the steering ratio in response to the vehicles speed and the Audi select mode in use. Also available as an option is Audi's drive select that allows the driver to fine tune the dynamics of the car.

Offered in three guises, comfort, auto and dynamic, a push of a button will change the suspension settings, steering behaviour, throttle response and transmission shift points to suit the personal preferences of the driver. With the longest in class wheelbase, the Avant has plenty of passenger space, especially in the rear, where leg room is particularly generous.

With the rear seats up, owners will have 490-litres of luggage space to fill, and when folded, 1,430 litres. The boot comes equipped with a reversible cargo floor and cover, luggage net and tie-down straps although owners can opt for a telescopic bar and securing belt, and a powered tailgate, for optimum practicality and convenience. Five engines are available from launch, although others will join the line-up later in the year.

For now, customers can choose from two petrol units, a 157 bhp 1.8 Turbo FSI and a 261bhp 3.2 V6 FSI, and three diesel options, a 141bhp 2.0Tdi, a 187 bhp 2.7 TDi and 3.0TDi with 236 bhp. Depending on the engine chosen, there is the option of a slick operating six-speed manual gearbox, a faster shifting six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission or the incredibly smooth multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission, although the latter is standard on the 2.7 TDi unit.

The best seller is widely expected to be the 2.0TDi. Offered with three different power outputs, 118 bhp, 141 bhp and 167 bhp, there's certainly enough choice, although given the frugality of the 167 bhp unit, at 42mpg, there's little reason to opt for less power. Press down and the lively engine will accelerate from zero to 62mph in 8.6seconds and continue to its top speed of 138mph.

Mated to the six-speed manual, gear changes are quick and slick thanks to a precise and well sprung action, allowing the driver to work their way easily and efficiently through the gears. While it's not the sharpest or most engaging drive available in the premium B sector, it's a competent all-rounder. It gives a solid and capable performance delivered in an enjoyable drive, and won't compromise Audi's position as the long-standing segment leader.