The nine model Audi A4 saloon range gains a new flagship with the introduction of a manual 3.0 quattro version featuring a six-speed gearbox.

Available in automatic form since its launch earlier this year, the A4 3.0 quattro's manual transmission helps to extract the very best from the sophisticated and efficient new V6 engine.

Featuring five valves per cylinder, an aluminium head and crank case the range-topping A4 engine develops 220 bhp.

It enables the saloon to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 6.9 seconds, and to reach a top speed of 151 mph.

Then there's the potential to cover up to a maximum of 35.3 miles per gallon.

The A4 range boasts the largest choice of engines and transmissions in the sector, the 3.0-litre unit being just one of eight petrol and turbo diesel options.

The majority of front wheel drive models also reap the benefits of Audi's much praised multitronic automatic transmission.

This advanced new engine and transmission technology is under-pinned by light and agile fully independent suspension constructed almost entirely from aluminium.

The end result is a car which is both more responsive to drive and more refined on the move than its already highly regarded predecessor.

Also contributing to the A4's more unruffled character is a remarkable aerodynamically sculpted underbody, which helps to reduce interior noise.

The same technology of the A4 has been applied to the Audi R8 sports cars which conquered the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race this year and last.

Available in a choice of more than 50 colours, and with eight alloy wheel options, the manual version of the A4 3.0 quattro saloon remains at the original March 2001 launch price, as do the other models in the range.

Saloon on the road prices range from £17,640 to £24,840.

Avant estate models currently start at £19,770 (entry Avant 1.6 model due for introduction at £18,770 in spring 2002), running to £25,970 for the 3.0 quattro.