A4 allroad Down Under

The verdict has been overwhelmingly positive in Europe where the Audi A4 allroad has already been released. Now the new model arrives in Australia and continues a proud tradition the allroad has built since it first made an appearance in 2000.

Audi’s new generation A4 allroad boasts a new look, significant upgrades to its dynamics and drive feel, more luxury and safety and a raft of new technology including an engineering first for Audi in the form of the very latest incarnation of the revolutionary quattro system - called ‘ultra’.

We’ll get to that in a minute.

New A4 allroad quattro is derived from the new A4 Avant, a class leader in its segment but the allroad takes the Avant to new heights in terms of versatility and whole approach to the individual’s lifestyle.

For starters, the allroad has a tougher stance, rides a bit higher (+34mm) and has more presence on the road thanks to more substantial wheel arch flare extensions and the raised roof rails along with a distinctive, vertical bar grille and other distinctive body hardware.

And believe it or not, the allroad (and Avant) offer a more practical, longer (up to 1510 litre) load space than an equivalent SUV which, in conjunction with aesthetics, explains why Audi offers an allroad alongside the hugely popular Q5 – giving customers a greater choice to suit their lifestyle and needs. 

A 2.0-litre TFSi turbo petrol model allroad is available now, with a 2.0-litre TDi turbo diesel due before the end of the year. Unusually, the engine is mounted longitudinally (north/south) in the engine bay and not laterally as you might expect.

The petrol will start at $74,400 while diesel will be offered for $71,400 - a reduction of $600 on the previous, diesel-only A4 allroad model.

Outputs for the upgraded petrol engine are 185kW and 370Nm with the diesel good for 140kW and 400Nm. The petrol consumes 6.7-litres/100km on the combined cycle while the diesel is rated at an impressive 5.2. On the track, the petrol clocks a 0-100kmh in a quick 6.1 seconds with the diesel on 7.8 seconds.

The real world issue here is so-called roll-on acceleration with both models acquitting themselves with distinction.

In short, they don’t hang around when you need to overtake or get out of trouble.

Both have seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmissions and paddle shift, and both are great to drive with the clincher for the petrol model being its ultra quattro AWD system that uses clutch packs at the front and rear of the main drive shaft to apportion power to the front or rear wheels depending on available grip. In addition to this, ultra quattro has a predictive function that uses networked sensors to ‘look’ at the road ahead and set the car to suit. This is facilitated by (optional) suspension dampers that automatically adapt to any given road surface or driving style.

It’s pretty tricky stuff and from the average driver’s point of view, is characterised by impressive grip and a surefooted feel over most driving conditions and it’s right up there with the best in terms of confident ‘feel.’ Driving in snow comes instantly to mind here as the allroad 2.0TFSI would make child’s play of negotiating icy roads with minimal change to the way it drives.

The all-new A4 allroad quattro provides a six mode drive select system offering specific calibrations for Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency, Individual and Offroad, with all modes optimising the way the vehicle behaves in the prevailing driving environment and this is aided by five link suspension at all four 18-inch wheels.

Through the use of refined design and upgraded materials, the new allroad cuts 80kg from its gross weight (compared to the previous model) with benefits to fuel economy, ride and performance.

Inside the A4 allroad is typically to Audi’s high standard – this time with the absolute latest in infotainment and connectivity. LED interior lighting with ambient lights are standard, while the leather upholstery is supple, the controls are functional and stylish, the audio (upgradable to 755 watt B&O) is impressive and you have a wide array of luxury and entertainment features to occupy your time and make travel time easier and more comfortable.

Tick off electric front sports seat adjustment for driver and passenger, aluminium interior fascia, three zone climate control with particulate filter, leather multi function sports wheel, auto headlights and wipers, numerous storage options and an adjustable front centre armrest.

In terms of safety tick off an active bonnet for pedestrian safety, attention assist, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, pre-sense rear to warn inattentive drivers and tyre pressure monitor.

Even better are the parking assistance system, rear view camera, side assist that warns of potential collisions from the side, blind spot monitor, cross traffic alert for reversing, cruise control with braking function and exit warning that detects cars and cyclists when opening the doors on your vehicle.

A range of optional packages are also available to help customise the A4 allroad  quattro, including the Assistance package for high end driver assistance features, Parking assistance package, Technik package which includes the very desirable virtual cockpit and large 12.3-inch info screen along with head up display and the Technik package with sunroof.

Behind the wheel

I took the new A4 allroad 2.0 TFSI for a decent drive outside of Cairns and up into the Atherton Tablelands.

The roads aren’t pretty but the scenery sure is. I was able to push the allroad on the mountain roads with complete confidence and when overtaking was required, I was surprised at just how quick it is. It spins out with a pleasing little snarl to the exhaust, while ride quality can’t be faulted for this type of driving (touring) – just dial up the required mode on the drive select dial and off you go. It’s that simple.

I took it on gravel roads and the allroad behaved as if they were sealed. Bit worried about stone chips though!

What we have here is an impressive all rounder, a car with substance and style that can rough it if needed and then cut it with the chic and smart.

It’s great fun to drive, looks impressive, goes well and is super safe and economical. The Audi allroad tradition not only lives on but steps up to a new level.