Took the S4 to the Alps

[gangstarrrrr]

Just returned from a weeks ski trip in Courchevel with the wife and baby. We decided to drive as it was kinda one of the advantages of having the estate.

The drive was essentially flawless, apart from the occasional bawling to be expected from a 10 month old, he was actually quite good. A spot of traffic near the ascension point of the resort, but again nothing too bad. French roads are for the most part really good, but the tolls did total something like €100 each way. Add in an overnight hotel both ways (£170) and almost 5 tanks of fuel and you have to think, although its more hassle juggling all the gear (3 snowboards, boots, pram, food etc) it would be cheaper and quicker flying.

On the subject of fuel, have to say I was quite pleased. On the way there I averaged around 25mpg and on the way back, about 27mpg. Now I've never seen anything above 20 before so this is a result!

The space in the car was problematic. We thought we had more space than we do, and it was a real squeeze getting it all in. Probably need a roof box if we do it again.

Had my winter tyres on (vredestein wintrac extreme). Didn't hit any ice but plenty of low temperature driving, so nice having them on. Car felt good throughout the drive, didn't feel the weight too badly and it's a comfortable place to be for 4-5 hours at a time.

[Nickyboy]

Pics of the car in some nice settings?

When I went from my Octavia VRS Hatch to the S4 I was surprised at the lack of space. It looks much bigger but actually it was harder to get everything in, especially when you've got a very little one with all the gubbins that goes with them.

I agree with the comfort, lovely place to be for a few hours though after that many hours I find my back does begin to ache, probably to do with the lack of lumbar support I use.

[longdog]

Yes have to agree that it's not the most spacious estate, if we go on any trips with our kids and dogs the roof box has to be deployed.

[gangstarrrrr]

Afraid there's no pics of the car in a nice setting! We ascended at night (sports diff was great round the hairpins, could really chuck it into the bends) and then the car was underground for the whole week!

It is however coated in muck which I'll get off this weekend. I think if it weren't for the ceramishield it'd look a lot worse. But a moot point, it's still pretty filthy.