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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  Anything but fuel efficient - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Fun Driver - October 22 - 10:00 am

  Great car, great ride, coolest kid on the block. However, fuel efficiency sucks!

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  I love this car! - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By jonfin - October 10 - 2:00 am

  We were looking for a car to take the place of our Merecedes wagon -- one with more creature comforts (cupholders, a decent air conditioner etc.), yet being able to handle as well as a Mercedes. The allroad fit our needs perfectly. It is fast: 250 hp, twin turbo. It is slightly higher than a tradional car, so the visibility is better. It is luxurious inside, its very responsive and its a kick to drive. What more could you ask for?

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  Excellent alternative to SUV - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By plymm - September 16 - 2:00 am

  bought certified pre-owned. Owned car for 6 months now. Very reliable-no mechanical problems. Only issue was getting use to transmission lag-I find there is no turbo lag-the transmission doesnt shift down fast enough (to improve fuel economy) causing lag/hesitation. This issue goes away when you use the tiptronic shifter. I also find the lag gets minimized if you go easy on the gas pedal initially and then lay into it. This also creates a more linear power curve. Been driving it around in NE winter storms. The all wheel drive is capable, but not as sure footed as my Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo in the snow--the Jeep has a slight edge.

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  If only... - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By sayitisntsew - September 9 - 4:26 am

  Before 3 of the 4 air suspension bags and air suspension pump failed..the car was fun to drive...there have been so many little things, coupled with the big things- I feel like after 30,000 miles my Audi was nickel and diming me to death...with the air suspension failure (apparently inevitable with this car) IM DONE!....and Im not alone, -google Audi forums- EVERYONE hates the KNOWN failures of this car. Wish I had stayed with my old reliable VOLVO.

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  Best Car Ever - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By kmurphy - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Lots of exclusivity and support from Dealer & Manufacturer

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  99 Problems but a Hörch ain’t one - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By penwolf - July 19 - 1:18 am

  I killed my Audi today. After almost four years of Allroad ownership I should be qualified to write a thoughtful and informative review of my experience. Alas, IÂ’ve spent more time in and out of cheap rented harlots; Nissan Sentras, Chrysler PTs, Toyota Camrys, KIA Optimas and Chevy Cobalts, while my Audi slept in greasy mechanics shops with her claws on my credit card. If you like money in your pocket, donÂ’t buy this Audi. If you like to drive your own car, donÂ’t buy this Audi. If you, like me, are a masochist, hell-bent on suffering and burning money, check out the Audi Allroad. My Audi was four years of abject languish, watching something I love destroy itself and my finances.

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  Best Car On the Road - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By peev - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought this because my boyfriend has an A4. Is he jealous now! Not only is the bi-turbo engine extremely fast, but the car handles better than any SUV Ive ever driven on rugged Colorado mountain roads. It is by far the best car Ive ever had the pleasure of owning. And its good lookin to boot!

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  This Car Does It All - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By williar - April 27 - 2:00 am

  This is an excellent sports wagon, best-in-breed for a wintertime vehicle, as well as crusing at 100+ mph. Its agle, fast, sure-footed, and well-engineered. This car can take on the bush or carry a family to the mall with aplomb. The auto-tranny is good; the 6-spd. is great! After 10K miles, reliability has been excellent.

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  Excellent hwy hauler - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Sven - April 21 - 2:30 am

  Purchased this car certified used. Got plenty of compliments about the way it looks (i.e. expensive). People at work were questioning if I got some secret raise. As far as driving the car, its not quite the drivers car but I knew that coming in. What it excels in is a highway hauler. I needed something to drive up to Lake Tahoe hauling my skis, mtn bike, and friends while cruisng in comfort. Once this car is on the highway it just hauls and is very quiet and comfortable. Much more than an Outback I use to own. Turbo/transmission lag is annoying and heard it can be fixed with an aftermarket ECU. Also when the car is cold it feels like its running on 4 cylinders.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Asheville - March 19 - 3:10 pm

  I have had my 2005 Auti allroad for a few months and I love it! I was rear ended in November, the car (2004 Accord) of the driver that hit me was close to being totaled, I drove away with a few scratches and hardly felt that I had been in an accident. I was very impressed by the safety of my allroad. The State Trooper commented on the way German Cars hold up in accidents.