AUDI A4 ALLROAD
Mid-size wagon straps on some body armour
THE AUDI A4 Allroad has always been the thinking person’s SUV.
Compared to its in-house Q5 equivalent, the recently released B9-series Avant wagon based newcomer is roomier, lighter ( by 175kg!), faster, less thirsty, more athletic, comfier riding, lovelier inside, and only fractionally smaller boot-wise.
But with a $10,000 price advantage, the more modish SUV will prove way more popular. And that’s a pity, especially as this second-series A4 Allroad stands virtually alone as a medium-sized crossover from a premium brand.
To better avoid rocks, there’s hill-descent control, 34mm extra ground clearance (at 173mm – though that’s still 27mm shy of the Q5), and a fresh part-time AWD system dubbed Ultra. Chunkier bumpers, bodyside cladding, different alloys, and a unique rear diffuser give the Allroad that obligatory streetwise attire. Like Heidi Klum in Berghaus Explorers.
Otherwise, the latest A4’s MLB modular longitudinal platform applies, with its fivelink suspension at both ends, and advanced driver-assist technologies like available adaptive cruise with stop/go functionality, as well as rear cross-traffic alert, turn-assist warning ( helpful in avoiding striking a cyclist), and autonomous emergency braking.
Although 80kg lighter than before, the new Allroad is bigger, seating five adults fairly easily. Of course, lavish interiors are Audi’s forte, so it’s no surprise that detailing and materials coalesce effortlessly with logical switchgear and firmly supportive seating, for a sumptuous yet sensible cabin experience. Certainly in our test car, which included the optional ‘Virtual Cockpit’ Tft-display instrumentation and 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio.
A 505-litre load capacity is handy, stretching to 1510 litres with the 40/20/40 backrests lowered. There’s also a powered cargo cover, and electric tailgate with foot-gesture activation. Only occasional tyre drone and the odd suspension jolt intrude in an otherwise civilised environment. The optional adaptive dampers help provide a gentler ride.
The real point, however, is that – unlike most SUVS – the Allroad drives like a hunkered-down sports/luxury wagon, meaning that the A4’s fluid (if slightly remote) steering, agile handling, and unflappable roadholding translate largely undiluted. There’s alacrity and control to be savoured, backed up by spirited performance from a cultured and frugal 2.0 TFSI four-pot turbo. Or a 140kw/400nm 2.0 TDI turbo-diesel alternative from $71,400 is also available.
It’s clear, then, that the smart money is on the A4 Allroad. But will SUV buyers take heed?