15/08/2008 18:26. Volkswagen 's Audi unit has redone its best-selling model, the A4, for the '09 model year. And except for some unnecessarily complex dashboard controls, it's a winner, combining the luxury of one archrival, the Mercedes C-Class, with the hard-edged handling of another, the BMW 3-Series. And with all-wheel drive standard.

It's almost 5 inches longer and 2 inches wider than its predecessor and slips through the air a little more easily. It has an almost 6-inch longer wheelbase, which usually improves the ride and makes the interior roomier.

The track is wider, the suspension is new, the ride is firm but comfortable, and there's about an inch and a half more rear-seat knee room than last year.

Officially going on sale Sept. 15, the new A4 will be available in sedan, as I sampled it, and in... // Newsday