The German Touring Car championships (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters or DTM) is a racing series that takes place in and around Germany and, while not receiving as much international coverage as other racing championships, is a hotly contested series.
To celebrate its success over the years, Audi has released an A4 DTM, which slots into the middle of the A4 range. Of course, it doesn’t have the same power as the racing A4 DTM, but that’s not such a bad thing because the RS4 is an option for those who are looking for breathÂtaking performance.
There are two derivatives of the A4 DTM available in South Africa. The first has the same power output of 147kW as the regular 2,0-litre turbo FSI in the A4 range. The second DTM (which was the one I tested) comes with an additional 15kW of power and 20Nm of torque. At R307 700, the latter, in my opinion, is undoubtedly the no-brainer choice of the two.
Like any A4, the DTM is an attractive and decently put-together car, though the bumpers, dropped suspension and fatter takkies give it a wonderfully in-your-face edginess that befits its racing heritage. What stands out about the interior is the decadent suede trim, which covers everything from the seats to the handbrake.
The suspension is particularly rough, but you have to remember that this isn’t a regular A4 and you can’t expect it to be as smooth. Obviously, the stiffer suspension gives the DTM better road-holding and it sticks confidently to the tar. Initially I didn’t mind the roughness of the suspension because I welcomed the resultant surefootedness, but I have to admit that it did bug me on the open road.
Ultimately, the DTM is a great, sporty addition to the A4 range, but it could have benefited from just a little more vooma.
Fact file
Model: Audi A4 DTM
Price: R307 700
Engine: 2,0-litre turbo FSI
Tech: 162kW, 300Nm
Top Speed: 245kph, 0-100kph in 7,3s
Tank: 70 litres
Services: 15 000km