There’s little to distinguish the e-tron from any other version of the most successful Audi range on sale in Britain. Changes to the wheels, front grille and bumpers are so slight that they’re only likely to be spotted by A3 aficionados.

However, significant differences under the
skin make the German brand’s first hybrid a stand-out. Just as the visual changes are subtle, so is the manner in which the e-tron performs, thanks to a petrol motor that is inaudible most of the time and impressive technology that blends battery power with engine output.

Like other Audis, this car reaches high
standards in general and has excellent fit,
finish and detailing. It also comes with a lot of additional equipment and features upmarket items like dual-zone climate control, from sport seats, slick S tropic transmission and an MMI Navigation Plus system with a seven-inch colour screen as standard. And it is a surprise to discover that the long list of options fitted to our test car includes cruise control.

Fleet managers now have to work out how hybrid operating costs compare with diesel.

Maurice Glover