Audi's new Allroad escape-wagon

Audi's second-generation A6 Allroad Quattro may have taken an extra year to arrive Down Under but the wait has been worthwhile.

Launched locally this week as a single, fully-equipped 3.0-litre turbodiesel model, the Allroad has the chassis and performance to satisfy sporty European passenger car buyers while doubling as a leaner, greener, getaway family wagon.

Audi is promoting this unique new positioning to underpin the model's $106,000 price tag -- an increase of up to $20,000 over the previous model.

Based on Audi's sleek A6 Avant with its rakish rear roofline, the new model goes up half a class in size (from the previous A6 and Allroad) and a full class in its standard mechanical specification. This supports Audi's claim that the model "is almost unrivalled in its international competitive environment".

The combination of its low body profile, powerful 171kW/450Nm turbodiesel engine and Torsen all-wheel-drive system (with 50:50 front to rear torque-split) delivers dirt road entertainment, performance and grip normally only experienced in a Mitsubishi EVO or Subaru WRX. Because it can transfer up to 75 per cent of torque to the rear axle in extreme or slippery conditions without the front wheels losing grip, it can generate a satisfying rear-drive handling edge on loose surfaces.

On smooth roads, the advanced Torsen system can also deliver throttle-adjustable handling comparable to BMW and Mercedes-Benz road car rivals.

The Allroad's new standard electronic adaptive air suspension varies the height of the body by up to 61mm. It also controls the rate of the adaptive shock absorbers to match the road surface and style of driving.

The Allroad's ride height can be raised to a full 185mm ground clearance for low-speed 'hostile' track environments and set at 175mm for unsealed roads. For fast sealed-road conditions clearance can be trimmed to a ground-hugging 125mm. An auto mode starts at 140mm and will lift or drop the body according to speed and conditions.

This system allows the Allroad to replicate most of the capabilities of a purpose-built SUV while generating highway performance and dynamics that would challenge sportier road cars.

It has a braked towing capacity of up to 2100kg. This is enough for a reasonable size caravan or boat and might explain why the previous Allroad is now a common sight in the pits at classic motor racing events.

Audi says, in combination with its lighter weight, low drag and low-profile body, the Allroad is targeting the "soulful adventurer" -- an owner who needs the getaway capabilities of a luxury SUV without looking like an environmental thug.

As an alternative to Audi's $20,000-cheaper but larger and more brick-like Q7 (which shares the same drivetrain), the Allroad's sealed road capabilities and sporty, wagon-style looks are very different.

Outstanding fuel efficiency is part of the equation. Claimed fuel figures of 11.8lt/100km in urban conditions with a best of 7.0lt/100km outside town generate a combined 8.8lt/100km. This figure proved to be easily achievable on this week's launch drive.

Audi claims a 0-100km/h time of 7.8sec and a top speed of 230km/h.

Although the new Allroad looks more compact than the previous model from some angles, it is longer by 124mm, wider by 100mm and sits on a wheelbase that is a substantial 76mm longer. This generates an extra 10mm rear legroom, more shoulder room and a longer luggage platform. Front track is boosted by 22mm and the rear by two for extra stability.

The torsional rigidity of the body is boosted by over 34 per cent while an expensive mix of body and structural materials have kept weight to 1880kg despite a full complement of luxury features, all-wheel drive components and five-star crash safety. A Tiptronic six-speed auto, ESP, ASR traction control and electronic differential lock (EDL) are all standard.

Because of the new model’s slightly lower ride height which also impacts on the approach angle, the Allroad attracts an extra five per cent import duty over the previous model.

CN has been advised that if Audi chose to jack up the suspension by another 15mm, the new Allroad would have attracted the five per cent duty for four wheel drives, not the 10 per cent passenger car rate. However, this was not consistent with the new model's sportier positioning. As a result, sales are expected to hover around a highly exclusive 100 per year.

While a cheaper, smaller-engined model is still under consideration, the effectiveness of the 3.0-litre turbodiesel configuration means a V8 petrol model will not be offered.

Distinctive stainless steel body additions including roof rails help identify the new model along with the new full depth grille with its 'floating' Audi badge and numberplate location.

Audi offers a choice of 17, 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels and three grades of tyres depending on application. For an extra $2000, the Allroad's soft-surface charcoal lower body additions can be colour-matched to the exterior colour.

Audi offers two main option packages. The $4500 Comfort Package which adds Audi's advanced parking system with rear camera, Bluetooth, electric sunroof, upgraded leather and a choice of wood cabin inlays. The $5500 Technik Package offers a DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth, Audi music interface with iPod preparation and voice control system.

An extended drive through outback NSW suggests that the Allroad may set a new benchmark in terms of refinement, rough road ride and stability in combination with outstanding highway performance and handling. Look for the Carsales Network's full launch report soon.

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