I’ve been at the wheel of several test cars recently – or just walked to work. So it was a real pleasure last night getting back into the Audi A4.

The one thing I notice above all else is the tactile feel of the steering wheel and the gearlever. Whatever the leather Audi uses, it really is fabulous.

And the messages that come up through the seat are consistent and help you read what the car is doing and how you should react. All very reassuring.

Unlike filling up with diesel. Have you seen the price?

Fuel duty went up on April 1 – so that hasn’t helped. But according to the the latest AA Fuel Price Report, petrol is rising faster than increases during last spring’s fuel price surge. Including April 1’s 2.12p increase in fuel duty and VAT, average UK petrol prices have risen 4.45 pence in a month.

Diesel drivers, reports the AA, have benefited from a glut in European markets that has seen pump prices rise from 99.77 pence per litre in mid-March to 102.69 now – most of it due to the Chancellor’s extra tax-take. So thanks for helping boost the economy Alistair Darling.

So this morning it was time for some tlc – thanks to my son Matt who did the honours with a bucket and sponge.

Back at the wheel of my Audi A4