Overview & Reviews

Back before luxury SUVs were all the rage, wagons ruled supreme. Whether factual or simply perceived, SUVs had a reputation for being more rugged and robust, since early models were based on truck platforms. Bridging this gap between urban sophistication and rural durability was the original Audi Allroad Quattro. Even though the first-generation Allroad was well received, it was only offered for five years. Shortly thereafter, Audi's pair of "Q" SUVs filled the void.

More recently, Audi has brought the Allroad back, this time slightly smaller and based on the A4 wagon. This new Allroad is covered in a separate review. As a used choice, the original Allroad Quattro should appeal to shoppers looking for a luxury wagon with a bit of extra ruggedness. But it did have some notable drawbacks, and few were sold, so finding one might take some time.

Used Audi Allroad Quattro Specs
The first-generation Audi Allroad Quattro debuted as a 2001 model and was based on the midsize A6 sedan. As a result, this Allroad wagon was larger in every dimension than the current model. Supplying power to all four wheels was a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 that produced 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was standard, with a five-speed automatic available as an option. One of the distinguishing features on the Allroad at the time was an adjustable suspension that could raise and lower the ride height by 2.6 inches. This gave drivers the choice of off-road clearance or greater on-road handling.

Feature highlights included 17-inch wheels, full power accessories, air-conditioning, leather upholstery and a nine-speaker stereo with CD player. Available options mostly comprised auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated seats, rear-facing third-row seats, a Bose premium audio system, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a navigation system and parking sensors.

By and large, changes throughout the first-generation Audi Allroad were slight. The most significant addition was an available 300-hp V8 that debuted in the 2004 model year. That engine was paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Minor changes included an available heated steering wheel and OnStar telematics for 2002 and optional satellite radio in 2004. In 2005 -- the Allroad Quattro's final year -- OnStar was dropped and the trademark black fender panels were then painted to match the rest of the body.

Throughout its run, the first-generation Audi Allroad Quattro maintained its position as an alternative to larger luxury SUVs at the time. To its detriment, however, the Allroad lacked the level of comfort and flexibility that those SUVs offered. Furthermore, the Allroad was more expensive than those rivals. In reviews, we deducted points for the base V6 engine's pronounced turbo lag under acceleration, the suspension's rather harsh ride quality over bumps and less-than-admirable fuel economy figures. These are all items of contention that should be taken into account when considering a used Allroad.

User Reviews:

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  better than any SUV - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By ttttm - November 20 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking in the luxury SUV class (mercedes, bmw, acura mdx, etc) dont miss this one. It is unique, fast, great interior, more ground clearance than a land rover discovery, adjustable suspension, and more luggage space than bmw x-series.

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  Twin Turbo bliss - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By quattro-fan - November 5 - 10:00 am

  My third Audi, this car is wonderful. Interior appointments are second to none. Seats are comfortable for long drives. Bose sound system is top notch. The car is quick and handles well for a big vehicle. Cargo space is excellent.

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  Adore my allroad - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By ftauber - August 16 - 1:32 pm

  I traded my Lexus RX300 for this 04 Allroad three years ago. The Lexus was wonderful and reliable but the Allroad is so much more fun to drive. The Allroad has 170k and it drives like a new car. I have had some minor problems brake light switch, window regulator, temp sensor, water pump, 1 front ball joint, spark plug coils, 1 cv joint and brake pads. in the last 50k. I have owned a BMW 540i and although I loved it the Allroad is even more fun to drive. My wife drives a Volvo XR-70 which is a wonderful auto but it cannot compare to my Allroad in the fun to drive catagory. My biggest delema now is what to buy next so I have decided to keep this Allroad as long as I can

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  Big Hat, No Cattle... - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By markbetsy - May 24 - 10:00 am

  When I first saw this car, i thought WOW!! thats one cool car. Audis have usually delivered "the goods" with regard to performance, but, alas this car is somewhat disappointing. turbo lag is very evident (automatic transmission); so far so that a group of disgruntled owners are petitioning audi of america to fix the "problem" as they call it a safety hazard. other HUGE performance problem is with the brake rotors. my allroad has 32,000 miles and im on my fourth set...that is completely unacceptable. driver door rattled from the first day, but always intermittently, so the repair guys thought i was an idiot...

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  2004 Allroad V-8 4.2 L - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Yong - April 3 - 3:33 am

  I bought the car for its looks and engine and having owned another Audi for 10 years. I must admit it was a fun car to drive but then it started to go down slope after I bought it. One day, my wife forgot to turn off the lights, somehow both front air- springs went after 8 hours. Thats three grands of repair. Then the windows switch went bad, and together with the transmission seal, another grand. Today took my car in for check engine light, the torque converter needs to be replaced, the cost: $3700. I wanted to keep the car but cant afforest it anymore. Granted I bought the car used, but at 75K miles the car is falling apart. Is it true that you can only lease Audi now?

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  got one - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By gotone - May 27 - 2:00 am

  the car is very sporty-a good small wagon with good rear leg room and great dash layout. Does well in snow with quattro system. Fuel economy could be better and it takes mid-grade- 89octane or better fuel. been getting about 19.5mpg avg. hwy/city mix-up to 23 mpg hwy only. Driver leg room a bit cramped widthwise. The first car Ive owned that is actually fun to drive.

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  not my parents wagon - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Haz - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Shopped wagons for new family but still love to drive. Tested Passats, Volvo XC, Saab, BMW 3 & X5, Audi A6. All good cars but 2003 allroad really stood out. Looks cool, great build quality, perfect utility, spacious, top comforts, quick and fast. Turbo puts your head back and no lag with manual. Handling softer than our A4 – wider steering, longer shifter throws, occ tire give in fast corners – but still always a hoot. For a wagon it dazzles. We actually use variable susp (low hghwy, high city) with very different drive feel. More money than runner-up Passat but way more fun.

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  Be Careful of Automatic Transmission - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By connveteran - December 28 - 7:19 pm

  The ZF Automatic Transmission is known to have MAJOR problems in this car. Audi apparently was aware that the 2001-2004 Allroads had bad transmissions but never did a recall The first thing to go is Reverse Gear. It slips when going uphill backwards. Reverse might be okay on level ground but not on inclines/hills. Its a very costly $4,000+ repair and you cant replace it with a used transmission because that one will also probably go bad. It must be rebuilt. Audi changed the transmission in 2004 or 2005 because they were that bad.

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  allroad - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By welling - November 8 - 2:00 am

  fun car to drive on the highway. The interior is great quality. The radio has wonderful sound and the controls have a good layout.

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  Great combination of luxury and utility - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By GRS - October 30 - 11:56 am

  I owned a regular A6 2.7T before getting the allroad. The allroad was a pleasant surprise in almost all respects. It has all the luxury Audi is known for. I prefer the Allroads ride to the regular A6. It can be raised to SUV height which is great for driving around the city and off road. It is as good as any vehicle in snow. It is a genuine autobahn cruiser on the freeway. The only limitation is hard off road. It needs beefier tires and it would be dumb to beat up such a nice car with that kind of use. I dont know why more makes dont offer this great combination of features. Con: lag is noticeable in regular Drive. Sport drive helps in newer models.