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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  This is my third Audi - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Kramer - June 16 - 10:06 am

  I traded in my A6 for the Allroad. I wanted the features of a wagon but did not want a suv. This car is fun to drive, very similar to the A6, but gives greater flexibility to carry larger items, without sacrificing ride, handling, and comfort.

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  Real, Solid Value, A "Keeper" - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Jim - May 27 - 5:16 pm

  It seemed pricey at first, but the Allroad delivers. Great style, amazing performance (on the highway at least), and build quality that MB should strive for (Ive had 15 MBs and never again). The Allroad is simply amazing. My only regret is that Audi chose to go for the awful Q instead of bringing in the new Allroad. Looking at the new A6 its nice, but no Allroad. Ive had no problems, wonderful driving experiences (yes, theres the turbo lag thing, but you "adjust" ). The Allroad is a competent, accomplished vehicle from a mark that is a benchmark for the interior quality -- shame on Audi for not giving us the new Allroad.

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  Good at first, horrible, then great! - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By rawrrXD - April 20 - 3:50 pm

  I bought this car with 110,000 miles on it in spring in northern NH, ahem: MUD. awesome in it however, when the winter months came the suspension BLEW completely gone, and it was horrible, I had been told that it was common problem and goes away with warm weather, so i had it checked out, an air suspension sensor had fried, and was replace for roughly $300, had the timing belt done, and now it RUNS LIKE A CHARM, i love this car, i will always drive an Audi, perhaps something a bit cheaper to fix, but i <3 Audi of America. At an annual Audi owners of America banquet which i worked at and found all too ironic, i told them I drove an allroad, and many were jealous, i get daily compliments.

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  Best SUV/All purpose vehicle made - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Bryan J Pacelli - April 19 - 2:00 am

  The best part of this car is that it is great at EVERYTHING! Overall quality is second to none! The performance/handling/power is better than luxury performance sedans plus, it performs the same in the RAIN where the others have to change their driving habits, the Allroad performs the same in the rain as it does so well on the dry! The adjustable suspension gives me more ground clearance than most SUVs - If this isnt enough it is a blast in the snow - absolutely unstoppable! I am 35 - with a young family - it gives me the flexibility of a wagon in a fun, progressive/aggressive package - This is not my mothers Volvo wagon!!!

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  Not without problems - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By WW - April 9 - 1:16 pm

  Extra wide fenders over tires make manevering a challenge; fun to drive, but MANY issues with engine and transmission. Additionally, tire wear much higher than average and fuel well below rating. All in all not sure I would buy another Audi. Not sure there is a significant advantage to an all-road over an A6 AWD.

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  Almost Perfection - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By James Walsh - April 2 - 5:13 am

  This car is the best Ive owned. It combines very good performance with sufficient interior space and a feeling of luxury in its ride, handling and appointments. And the fuel economy is really pretty good if you drive reasonably. Ive received compliments on its styling from stangers...and young ones at that. This ones a keeper.

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  great all weather car - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By steeltag - March 23 - 6:58 pm

  I bought this at 137k miles so some of the well known problems/maintenance had been performed already. It now has 145k miles and I really like it! superb all weather traction/capability, comfortable, quiet and powerful Since this is a 6 spd manual car, no troublesome auto tranny issues, but will need a clutch b4 long, Needs both front cv axles replaced (normal wear item), and some oil leaks fixed. I think this is a great USED car buy IF....proper maintenance has performed and you dont take it to the DEALER, get good independent mechanic.

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  Beautiful Headache - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Blackroad - March 8 - 2:00 am

  After two plus years and 46,000 miles, Ive got mixed feelings. I got the famous 45 mp wobble, a vibration that starts at that speed. The dealer balanced and aligned wheels repeatedly. I lost track of how many brake rotors they replaced. Finally the Audi rep had the dealer replace the TCM (computer software for automatic transmission) and it only wobbles above 65 mph. If that one problem could be resolved I could deal with the initial quality problems (all finally fixed) and I would love this car without reservation. But its like a nagging headache. I should have waited for a six-speed.

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  Aways Allroad - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Scuzzy - March 3 - 9:13 pm

  Sleekly designed wagon with break neck acceleration (biTurbo). Will reach 80 mph on the highway in a flash (watch out for speed traps)! AWD keeps this beast glued to the road - especially in the rain. Every imaginable (and distractable) creature comfort exists in the cockpit. Seats are "La-Z-boy" comfortable. Red lit interior buttons at night send the coolness factor through the roof! Factory installed Bose 6 speaker sound system rocks my entire block!

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  best in class - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By d cerone - February 10 - 10:00 am

  I have never owned a car that was as much fun the first day as it is today! Pure enjoyment from almost every aspect, except the small pre-turbo lag - what a gas this car is. But speaking of Gas, please make sure you have plenty of cash with you at all times. Mileage is not the best, really its not good at all! From day one everyone has been interested in what the car is and does, I am super happy with my Allroad!