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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  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.

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  Tires are the problem - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By dnwdeep - October 18 - 12:03 am

  This is our third Audi wagon and second allroad. We are averaging 20 MPG in all kinds of driving. The car is fast and comfortable and has had few problems.

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  audi = porsche, without envy - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Victor - September 25 - 10:00 am

  This is a wonderful car to drive. It is fast, comfortable and easy to handle. My previous car was a BMW 633 csi. My new Audi may not be as flashy, but it is every bit as fun to drive. Also it doesnt evoke envy, which is a nice aspect since I live in a university town.

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  Nice but.... - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Andrew - August 16 - 5:30 am

  The car drives very smoothly and with a powerful engine allowing for impressive cruising. The strength, solid protective mechanisms, and wonderful brakes allow a family to enjoy this vehicle for both its family size and pleasure of driving. However, I found several of the heavily promoted features to be of little or no use.

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  Beautiful Headache Redux - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Blackroad Again - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I reviewed my car at 46k, now a follow- up at 73k. The headaches are fewer, but the car didnt shape up until after 50k and MANY dealer visits. Audi put on same tires as A8 and balanced them right. Vibration gone. The brake rotors warped after 23K more miles - Audi refuses to help. 3 visits to fix leaky w/washer system. It never ends. I love this car, but never again.

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  pres - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By jonroe07508 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  turbo lag bad bad fuel millage especially in city harsh ride over minor bumps esay to drive and fun to drive very well built

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  Allroad 6 speed - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By atalya - June 8 - 10:00 am

  The best of all worlds: sports wagon performance and handling, plus the ability to do all the back road and off-road driving I will ever need. Quiet, effortless cruiser at 90mph. Manual transmission makes car much more lively than autobox. Shifter is notchy when new, loosens up nicely by 10,000 miles. We always run the car in the lowest position for paved road driving: firmer ride and much better handling.

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  Best all arround ever - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Greenmx - June 1 - 11:00 am

  After having 3 and 5 series BMW crossovers and SUV, I finally got the Allroad. Wish I had gotten one years ago. Amazing ride, power, versatility, comfort. Quattro system is a blessing in bad weather, adjustable suspension works like a charm, family dog loves riding in the back separated by standard mesh screen. Perfect! Do yourself a favor and get one now!

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  Allroad - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By trcross - May 14 - 10:00 am

  Great looks, many compliments. Not too many around so it has a great appleal. Excellent fit and finish. Poor full ecomony, but does have fulltime 4 wheel drive. Very fast pickup, but sensitive throttle. I have about 10,000 miles on the car with zero problems. I really enjoy driving this car.