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:
Showing 1 through 10 of 194.00-
allroad -- segment busting since 2001 - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
By TingandCSR - November 28 - 10:00 amThis vehicle does so many things much better than adequately: blasting down the freeway on the lowest suspension setting, sliding around backwoods Adirondack dirt roads, plowing through snowbanks up on the highest setting, packed full of (heavy) band equipment without noticable wheezing or whining, and then cleaning up very nicely when called upon to do personal limousine duty. The only serious con continues to be the (perhaps) intentionally engineered- in transmission lag ... but allroad drivers learn to use sport or tip mode to lessen its effects.
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AWESOME!!!!! OWN NO OTHER CAR - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
By PARKCITY - October 25 - 9:50 amI must have asked about 25 allroad owners before I bought this, and I didnt hear one negative thing. I still ask other owners and honestly have never heard a complaint. I love this car like no other. It is epitomized as a sports-car SUV with good MPG. The 6-speed manual is gutsy and responsive. The 2.7T is perfect for this car and gives good mileage for a car of its size, weight, and safety. The way this thing handles on the road is like my previous A4 quattro, but Ive got room for my bike, snowboard and the like. I really like the fact that this will raise 6-8 inches; I have an SUV with much better gas mileage (manual trans helps) and the power and handling of my previous A4.
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Audi All Road - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
By RichLI2 - October 16 - 10:00 amThis is a great car Everything about is super first class. It is fun to drive, great looking. practical and a great alternative to a full blown SUV. It is all wheel drive, handles and drives like a luxury sedan and has all the utility of an SUV
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Great, reliable vehicle - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Tigerfish - October 5 - 12:53 pmIve owned the car for 3 years and am living in central Idaho. We received 300+ inches of snowfall this year and have dirt roads to contend with in the summer. Aside from a couple of minor oversights, like front seat cup holder placements and a split rear seat that only folds one way, this wagon is arguably the best on the road. Coupled with a 6-speed manual gearbox and it delivers excitement at every shift.
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The most obscure Audi - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By markcincinnati - September 15 - 2:00 amSomeone has probably already called the allroad, the Swiss Army Knife of automobiles. Theyre correct. The version of the allroad that makes not only this "universal soldier" impression, but adds to it a huge dose of near sports sedan performance and fun is the manual transmission version. This car, unknown to most people is THE one car to have if you can have only one -- it can go anywhere, anytime, keep up with most everything else on the road and allow you and your passengers to arrive in style, comfort and safety.
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Fabulous car! - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
By jonfin - August 29 - 2:00 amThis is one amazing automobile! It is fun to drive, corners as well as our Mercedes but has many more creature comforts. Even with a bit of turbo lag time, this car can beat anyone out of a stop signal. On a highway, the ride is peppy, and very comfortable. The car is a rocket going up a steep hill. Its just a kick to drive!
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all roads Start" from here. - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By azeebabee - August 15 - 10:00 amNothing beter for taking our long awaited vacation to MNs North Shore It is a magical place for its beatyful color vistas, Nice roads compred from last year should make thi one the bes ever,,no small thanks to our allroad and the many features that make a long roadtrip not only bearable but downright exceptional
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Who Needs an SUV? - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
By 5timeaudiowner - July 11 - 2:00 amWe swapped an A6 2.7T for the allroad. It is simply awesome... my wife doesnt ever want to give it up! Great acceleration, braking, steering feel, very comfortable, large cargo area, adjustable suspension, towing capacity. Love the beige interior. I get more looks driving this than my 2002 A4 avant w/sport pkg. I think its the wheels/flared arches and aluminum accents.
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ALLROAD Built for the road - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
By mhebert - July 6 - 10:00 amI traded my BMW X5 for my Allroad, and I enjoy driving my Audi more. It has better road feel and the acceleration is comparable. I just finished a 1400 mi. road trip over 5 states, mountain passes, under many different road conditions, and I can report that there are very few autos that can match the performance, comfort, and utility of the Audi Allroad. It is one of the best cars I have ever owned!
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allroad - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By z - May 13 - 5:56 pmVery fun to drive. Quick and nimble considering it is a great snow car. Aggressive looking enough not to be ignored and subdued enough not call for unwanted attention. Fun for longer road trips and a great every day kid (2,4) hauler.