Audi has revealed the Audi A4 Avant (pictured left) which it says is the first of an extended family of variants based on its compact saloon. The estate will reach UK dealers in September.

According to Audi, the A4 range will be the most environmentally friendly and therefore cost-effective under the “punitive” new car tax rules. From next April, taxation will be based on CO2 emissions.

Kevin Rose, Audi UK director, said: “The impact of the new business user tax will be far more severe than many customers realise. Some personal tax bills are likely to rise from around £7,000 a year to more than £12,000.”

The lowest tax bracket is based on exhaust fumes with a maximum of 165 grammes per kilometre. The Volkswagen Group 1.9-litre, 130bhp TDI turbodiesel, used in the A4 range, records 149g/km which Audi claims is class leading.