As I may have mentioned in other threads, I've been mulling over a new car for a while.

I do like my current motor - a 10 year old Volvo C70 convertible. I think it still looks reasonably elegant, and I have loved having a convertible (even if the family - particularly those in the back - don't share my enthusiasm). But it's expensive to run and is getting old (100k miles) and beginning to develop irritating (yet minor) faults.

I would really like a plug-in hybrid, but I can't see a really good one being available in the next 2-3 years. So maybe a sensible interim vehicle...

Having previously owned an A4 Avant, and admiring the design of Audi (The A5 Coupe being a favourite), Audi seemed to be the way to go.

I've looked at entry level models of A3 (Cabrio), A5 (Cabrio) and A6 (Saloon). They all come out to about the same money (£25k give or take) and it's been hard to decide between them on the basis of running costs, looks, practicality and fun. However, there's something about the quality of the A6 that still seems remarkable.

With a looming facelift, I thought I might see what offers are available, and I'm currently considering an A6 Ultra 2.0 SE Tdi in metallic, at a likely £24k on a 64 plate. This would be for delivery this month.

Seems like a good offer. Although I'd kind of prefer to defer purchase until spring of 2015, I'm wondering if my crystal ball is up to predicting whether or not I might look back on this as a lost opportunity if I don't go for it now?

Any wisdom?