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 51 through 60 of 194.00-
Very Impressed... - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By rmitsuda - May 9 - 10:00 amI just picked up a 2002 Audi allroad quattro this week, and I couldnt be happier with its performance and elegant interior. Externally, its one of the best looking cars are the road - wagon or sedan. The car handles very well. The only drawback with the allroad is the poor fuel economy. Nevertheless, the car is amazing. After I had considered many SUVs (i.e. X5, ML 320, RX 300, GX 470), Im very glad I decided to get the allroad. Its aggressive styling, performance & utility made it the best option for my family. Rich Torrance, CA
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360 degree eye catcher - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Vanc Isle - April 26 - 2:00 amThis is my first german built car. It is the best car Ive ever owned. Interior quality is superior and rear seating is confortable and surprisingly roomy. The drivers side entry is a tight fit. But once inside, the car is pure car-comfort heaven. Tiptronic was fine for my previous 300M, but I much prefer 6spM for the Allroad. I would not go back to tiptronic, even in 4.2L.
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Partially Underrated - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Johan WA - April 16 - 1:56 pmVery good, safe vehicle. Convenient. Great on winter roads to go skiing – perfect; never put winter tires on it and never slipped once. I don’t like the rugged bumper-look, however, you do spend most of your time on the inside looking out, so the interior must be super-good, and it is, comfy and lots of gizmos. Variable ground clearance is the coolest – it’s why I got it. I expected it all to be broken by now, but 100,000 miles later it still works (and I use that toy). They say EPA is 16/23 city/high: my combined average is 22.1mpg at an average speed of 33mph, but I am a very gentle/boring driver. Overall smooth and relaxed vehicle; go anywhere any speed, over a pass or valet parking.
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On the rail and quick acceleration - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
By ex-JPN-ITA driver - April 1 - 7:56 amThe great satisfaction after one year ride. This purchase was the compromise of a sporty sedan and a SW, and perfectly satisfied the both. Remember, this is a near 2 tons weight of SUV-like wagon, but you can still drive it like a sport car on hwy or pwy. It goes exactly on the rail in almost any situation even with heavy rain or few inches of snow. Overtaking acceleration is excellent. (Use premium gas, that makes a difference!) The interior is chic and elegant with no complaints (for extra cup holders, use the openable sidepocket or the one under the rear seat). The build quality is definitely better than the same generation A6. Overall, the long lasting state of the art.
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Ultimate Snow Car - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Roberto - March 19 - 4:13 pmI have lived in Colorado Ski Country for 47 years and have driven Jeeps, Landrovers, Ford Explorers, BMWs and ugh, yes even a Mercedes. The Audi Allroad with Michelin snow tires is the finest handling snow car in the world! Really!! I drive from Denver to Leadville and to Aspen every week during the winter and navigate multiple 11,000 and 12,00 foot passes all winter; even during the height of three and four foot snowstorms. Trust me, this car has saved us from serious injury at least twice. However, as I approach 90,000 miles, Im getting very nervous that my 100,000 warrantly is nearing its end.Only serious problem has been the hydraulics. Theyve been replaced three times on warranty.
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sporty & fun to drive - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Tkylo - March 10 - 10:00 amIm extremely happy with my purchase. The car is extremely safe & well built. I needed something safe to drive around in with my family. I also love the allroad feature plus that you can raise & lower the vehicle, this came very handy with all the snow that we had this year. The vehicle really sticks to the road. It has a sporty appearance & the quality & elegance of German engineering. I also own an Audi A4 and remain a loyal Audi customer. The Service departments & customer service are excellant. You are treated like a King.
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Fully Mature, Past 100k - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
By XCBIKER - March 1 - 10:00 amI am the third owner of this steroidal, German brute. This car was never designed to be a drag racer...so no need to treat it like one. Where this car truly shines is the open freeway and out in the open wild. Where can you get on-rail handling and passing power of a Porsche? Where can you charge down a snowy, dirt road at nearly 75mph with confidence? How about scale a 25% grade complete with ruts, roots and loam and not even break a sweat with wheel spin? Audi and its Torsen AWD is everything todays crossover/SUV owner wants. This car simply has Bentley comfort and Porsche performance. Is it worth the upkeep costs? YES. Life is too short to be driving dull, uninspiring cars!
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Who needs an SUV - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
By chris sutliff - February 17 - 10:00 amGreat car. Front end shake at 65-70mph I understand is a common complaint these days. Design flaw in wheels. Snow gets packed in them and causes the whole car to go out of balance and shake. Other than these relatively minor flaws, fast, fun, comfortable and the looks you get..Great Car.
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So Far...GREAT CAR! - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
By lbeckwith - February 6 - 2:00 amI have wanted an Allroad for 2 years, but the 9 month wait for a 6 speed always sent me away. Found one on the lot last week and bought it immediately. Why would anyone buy the auto, when the 6 speed is so much more enjoyable. Best way to do away with turbo lag is wind it out a bit before shifting. And if it breaks...they fix it for 4 years. Hope all remains well...its great so far!!!
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Audi Loyalist - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
By Audi loyalist - February 2 - 4:03 pmPurchased car used with 48,000 miles but with a six year 100K warranty. Auto has proven to be the most versatile vehicle I have ever owned. Now that the car is getting up in mileage (82,000) I am getting concerned about ownership costs. I had both front air struts replaced at a cost of $2,700 (ouch)and have had two sets of front brake rotors warp and the air bag sensor needed to be replaced, all major items but my extended warranty covered everything except the shocks (coverage expired two weeks before shocks blew). Regardless I have greatly enjoyed the ownership experience and am actually scouring the market for a low mileage 2005 model as no other car on the market comes close.
