A4 steering feels so vague

[Richard <quattro@milliped.demon.co.uk>]

I've had a FWD A4 Avant for 6 months now and have accustomed to most of its
quirks.  However, what I haven't got used to is its vague steering.  There
seems to be a delay between turning the wheel and the car reacting.  It
isn't easy to swerve to avoid wildlife and potholes on our country roads. 
Even when driving straight on main roads the car requires steering more than
I would expect - making long journeys more tiring.  It's like a 'steer by
wire' system with a data rather than mechanical connection to the wheels.

I have the 30 valve 2.8 engine and standard suspension.  It has been
suggested that cars with lighter engines feel better and, of course, Quattro
and sports suspension would help.  Even so, I'm surprised by how odd the
steering feels.  The press seemed to rave about the A4 handling and
steering, so I assumed it was just a question of getting used to - I
haven't!

Has anyone else had a similar experience and perhaps got any advice on how
to improve things (other than trade in for a BMW thank you)? 

BTW, it's nice to find such an active mailing list.

-- 
Richard