Green edge to Audi.

AUDI has introduced a new ecofriendly version of its A4 family model that is high on economy but low on emissions.

It uses the same two-litre diesel engine as the larger A6 TDIe, with a power output of 134bhp and an array of devices designed to earn it the right to use the ''e'' moniker reserved for Audi's most economical vehicles.

In A4 TDIe guise there is economy of 60mpg and a CO2 rating of just 120g/km despite a sprightly performance of 143mph and acceleration to 60mph in 9.5 seconds.

This is achieved collectively by the use of high pressure common-rail injection, stop/ start automatic engine cut-out in traffic, changes to the gearing, improved aerodynamics and energy-saving tyres.

It earns a lowly 13 per cent company car tax rating, which for a 40 per cent tax-payer amounts to an annual liability of pounds 1,210. Private buyers will pay just pounds 35 a year in road duty and the car costs from pounds 23,340.

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Tax break: The Audi A4 TDIe.