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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  fantastic - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By brocky - January 31 - 2:00 am

  a great fun family car

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  Great automobile but....... - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Steve - January 26 - 3:16 am

  Incredible automobile - styling, design, drivability, etc. Works well for Maine winters. Minor problems along the way BUT no sooner than the 50k/4 yr warranty was over the whole transmission blew! Cost: $5,600 to replace. Audi split the cost and paid 75% while I paid $1,300. Bummer as the lease is almost over and had to fork over some large $$. I got nowhere with AudiUSA on this issue. No good explanation from anyone on the cause of the issue other than it occasionally happens. This is my 2nd Audi - first was a 1998 A6 which I purchased. Decided to lease this one. Im afraid after 2 tries Ill not purchase another Audi again. I fear the undependability and future costs to maintain it.

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  Unexpected satisfactions - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Allebahnen - January 15 - 4:40 am

  Allroad is continuously giving me unexpected surprises and satisfactions. The build quality, performance and fun to drive. Fuel economy can be improved using higher gear thanks to the incredible wide torque band. Three gears are available for most situations. Can drive as a luxury saloon in an elegant atmosphere, but also as a sporty touring wagon with the exceptional overtaking acceleration, then it turns also a SUV-like vehicle. In short, all in one for every situaion and condition. Its expensive but its worth. You can find the reasons in almost details even in invisible sections. Looks like even a master piece of craft work.

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  a jewel on the road - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By an architect - December 15 - 9:13 am

  An exquisite, elegant design that goes beyond trend since its introduction in 2001 with its original design virtually unchanged. Im glad that Audi will not produce allroad anymore (pending its future concept production) that would give this particular model rare value. 2.7T engine has enough power to smoothly lift 4,200+ lbs. of weight with confidence. Always trustful, impressive quattro all- wheel drive. Superb handling, ride comfort and beautifully crafted interior w/ top quality materials as Audis tradition. This is a true jewel on the road.

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  Audi Allroad - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Berend Bracht - October 14 - 2:00 am

  Excellent in winter conditions

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  love the car!!!!!!! - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Michael Nicola - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Love this auto even more than my last Audi...these folks know how to please a cardriver.....would change very little if anything.maybe gas mileage. cant wait to see (and probably buy) the new Pikes Peak!!!

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  Like a Rock ! - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By cyberallroad - May 26 - 10:00 am

  By far, this is the most comfortable car I have driven for long trips. The ride is just soo much better than the BMW 3 series. The cargo space is much bigger than other SUVs and wagons. The powerful bi-turbo engine is a sheer delight. The AWD system, safety features, curtain airbags, and Onstar service makes me safer on trips.

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  Do not buy an Allroad - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By awdjunkie - May 20 - 3:44 pm

  These cars are great for a while... like a short while. Like another poster said, each shop visit is going to cost 4 digits and they are going to happen a few times a year... not to mention 800 dollars tires. They are hungry Brake eaters as well... there is another $800 routine maintnance bill. They are money pits, but I did love it when it was behaving.

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  A Delight to Drive - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Phoenix traveler - April 19 - 9:43 am

  We wanted SUV performance without the bulk. As occassional off roaders who spend many hours driving long distance freeway miles we were looking for a multi purpose car. The Audi allroad has more than met our expectations.

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  2004 Audi Allroad - Super Car 2.7 V6 Biturbo - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By stevoid123 - April 13 - 7:16 am

  Bought this car used from a dealer in Rockland Ontario. Its a 2004 Allroad 2.7 V6 5-spd automatc. I was able to find the Audi dealer in Montreal who serviced the car and obtained all the service records from Audi. There was a 50$ service charge but well worth it. The previous owners name was blacked out but all details were there indicating full professional service and verifying the mileage. After a few weeks I had to replace 2 front upper control arms and fix a transmission oil leak. After 18 months I decided to upgrade the air suspension.