Audi A4 allroad quattro 2016 Review

Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TFSI S tronic
Australian Launch
Port Douglas, Queensland

Following the release of its all-new A4 sedan and Avant range earlier this year, Audi has now launched the crossover version, again dubbed the A4 allroad quattro. Offered initially with a 2.0 TFSI engine, the range will be bolstered by the addition of a 2.0 TDI variant by year's end. The A4 wagon-based ‘soft-roader’ arrives as standard with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi-first 'quattro with Ultra Technology' all-wheel drive system. It is priced from $74,400 plus on-road costs.

Audi's 'allroad' models have been something of a success story in Australia. Initially offered as a limited-edition variant in 2012, the allroad soon became a full-time member of the German luxury brand's Aussie portfolio, available in both A4 and A6 forms. Four years on, it now sells in numbers nearing those of its respective wagon variants.

Now, an all-new A4 allroad quattro has arrived Down Under, mixing all of the technological and packaging prowess of the A4 Avant with additional off-road ability.

The A4 allroad will initially be offered with a 2.0 TFSI (turbo-petrol) powerplant and seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. A 2.0 TDI (turbo-diesel) variant will join the range from November, priced from $71,400 plus ORCs, but at this stage the 3.0 TDI six-cylinder diesel variant offered in Europe is not confirmed for Australia.

For the petrol-powered model tested here there are outputs identical to those of the derivative A4 Avant. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder makes 185kW of power over 5000-6000rpm and 370Nm of torque over 1600-4500rpm.

Audi claims a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 6.1sec – making it the fastest allroad model yet – and combined cycle fuel consumption of 6.7L/100km. The model’s fuel economy also means it fits in under the Luxury Car Tax threshold.

It’s a model expected to appeal to mature family buyers with a sense of adventure. Audi says the A4 allroad will attract weekend adventures keen on pursuing alternative experiences, and with 34mm more ground clearance than the regular wagon (now 173mm), trips to the beach or the ski fields are certainly within the model’s capability.

Adding to that ability is a new iteration of Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system. Now incorporating Ultra Technology, the predictive system allows the A4 allroad to operate as a front-wheel drive in most scenarios to conserve fuel, but instantaneously activate drive to the rear wheels as required.

In ‘offroad’ mode the system favours drive to the rear and co-operates with relaxed stability/traction control and anti-lock braking system thresholds to improve traction.

As well as its increased ride height, the A4 allroad is recognised by chromed vertical bars on the grille and chrome atop the door-handles. It also gets a wider stance and flared wheel-arches to accommodate the model’s wider wheel track.

The allroad’s side sills and rear diffuser are a little masculinity to the crossover wagon, while also serving to reduce aerodynamic drag (0.32Cd).

Like the remainder of the A4 range, the allroad’s body comprises a mix of low and high tensile steels and aluminium, the tailgate and front strut towers crafted exclusively from the latter. The body is 80kg lighter than the model it replaces (tare 1580kg), despite the extra technology inside the cabin.

On that front we find Audi’s optional Virtual Cockpit instrument panel, LED headlights and tail-lights, leather upholstery, tri-zone climate-control, 8.3-inch infotainment array with 180-Watt audio system, and a range of internet-based concierge services.

Driver safety technologies mimic those offered in the full-size Q7. Four optional equipment packages are available: Park Assist ($950), Assistance Package Tour ($1900), Technik Pack ($2200) and Technik Pack with sunroof ($3900). Metallic paint attracts a $1420 surcharge.

The A4 allroad offers seating for five and 505 litres of cargo space. The latter can be extended to 1510 litres via split-fold rear seats, with access through a touchless electrically-operated tailgate – just swipe your foot under the bumper and the tailgate opens or shuts.

On the road we found the A4 allroad to be well mannered and impressively smooth. The engine is a healthy performer and once underway provides crisp acceleration and impressive overtaking ability.

It shifts cleanly through the aforementioned seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing diligent, velvety shifts. There’s no vibration and very little wind noise – despite of the inclusion of high-set roof rails as standard.

The A4 allroad rides 18-inch alloys and five-link suspension at each end. Adaptive dampers are offered optionally ($1700). We sampled both fixed and adaptive suspension variants, finding a downy yet settled ride in each.

Dynamic mode firmed the adaptive set-up slightly, the arrangement’s Auto function best managing the lumpy asphalt and loose gravel surfaces we encountered on the drive loop.

Cornering is better than expected given the A4 allroad’s higher stance, and inspires confidence with keen grip and accurate steering. The electric steering and pedals are well assisted with a light, well-metered action adding to a relaxed feel behind the wheel.

For weekend adventurers the A4 allroad quattro is a logical choice. Costing just $1500 more than its wagon derivative – yet $600 less than the outgoing model – it’s a vehicle whose added ability and appeal are matched only by its no-compromise amenity levels and thoroughly thoughtful finish.

For the Aussie market, this could well be the best-fitting A4 variant yet.

2016 Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TFSI S tronic pricing and specifications:
Price: $74,400 plus on-road costs
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 185kW/370Nm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch
Fuel: 6.7L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 155g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety rating: TBA

Also consider:
>> Skoda Octavia Scout (from $33,290)
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>> Volkswagen Passat Alltrack 4MOTION (from $49,290)