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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  It was the best of cars..it was the worst of cars - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By good_apple - March 26 - 7:50 am

  Purchased 2003 Allroad in September 05; parted ways in November 11. I chose the car for practicality and a need to be able to get around in winter..no matter what. It was perfect for that and was super comfortable on long trips. The downside: it went through tires and brakes like crazy. I am embarassed to admit how much I spent in repairs: the front suspension bladers, turbos, heater over and over, etc. Even my mechanic told me I could not afford to keep it. I will miss the winter reliability, but not the drain on my bank account.

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  you will like them all - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By tosh - March 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Audi and they keep getting better. I am sold on the company and they stand behind thier product, but I have never had anything wrong. I have had this car lest than a year and have put many miles on it fast.

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  Family in CT - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Joan Gill - February 10 - 12:13 pm

  We have loved driving this car and find it is an adequate size for our family of 3; we have a 10 year old daughter. We feel very safe in it and love the power and performance of the 2.7T. We wanted to trade it in for a Volvo, as were looking for a less expensive car; the 08 A6 avants are $55,000! Yikes! But when we went to trade it in, the Volvo dealer only wanted to give us $16,000. Were very disappointed with the fact that this car didnt hold its value, even though its been discontinued. We thought there would be a big demand for them!

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  allroad...allright! - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Luis Ruiz and Molly - February 6 - 4:13 pm

  My wife and I purchased an 2003 allroad with 31K miles. This is my second Audi, we have an 98 A4 in the family. Our two bulldogs love the cargo area, and my wife adores the seat warmers. I love the 40-60 MPH acceleration, although sometimes from stop-start is hesitates a little. We are really happy with the car eventhough we have owned her for only three days.

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  Audi allroad - perfect driving machine - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By A Land - January 1 - 9:40 pm

  Never had a nicer, more dependable car. Fun to drive, never get stuck in snow and very comfortable.

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  First 10months - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By a mountain guy - November 24 - 2:00 am

  A great "compromise" between performance, luxury and utility! Better gas mileage and a more side supportive seat would be appreciated but overall a very special vehicle that is a joy after almost a year. One mechanical problem fixed immediately by dealer and none since.

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  WOW Allroad - 2001 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By MR t - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Wow what an amazing car! My Allroad has brought me only good things. Its power looks and (hustler) biturbo just makes me smile. I think no other car ive owned (ML430,Acura MDX-never buy and Lexus RX300 has made me happier. It handles like a charm, looks like a doll and out runs most sports cars, with help from my Audi tunning chip(300hp+. I strongly reccomend this car to everyone!

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  Traded the 2.7 for the 4.2 - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By mer2 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  I love this 4.2. 2.7 fun but a bit problematic...turbo lag, engine warning light never resolved. It was 2001 though, but mostly loved the car. So, this 4.2 is fantastic, the best features of the 2.7 but better. Full body color is beautiful, engine is a blast, interior is gorgeous and beautifully constructed, if you dont count cupholders. Cant praise this car enough.

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  allroad...allright! - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Scott Z - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This is one beautiful car. The interior is outstandingly elegant and practical. The 2.7 is a sweet engine, but the turbo lag does take some getting use to. Build quality is very good to excellent, but does not equal the Japanese hi-qual cars. Its a delight to drive under all weather conditions. The styling has it all over the boxey Volvo wagon IMHO! The car doesnt need a V-8, even though one is now available. An upgraded chip for the V-6 adds another 65 hp! Fuel economy is not great, but the range with the 18.5 gallon tank is still good at 350 miles. The adjustable height suspension is a nice feature.

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  Audis the new standard! - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Ardriver - September 14 - 2:00 am

  After driving large American SUVs for 15 years, I thought Id try something different. WOW! Fit, Finish, Power, Handleing, Acceleration AND AWD? what a package...