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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  Neat Machine - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By tiekenr - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Fantastic substitute for an SUV! I upgraded from a VW Passat 4Motion and am still impressed by the craftsmanship of this car (and the VW was pretty impresssive in its own right). So many great features, but inexplicably, no GPS moving map (in the US, the European models do have it). Everyone else has cashed in on this feature, why not Audi?

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  Needs Work - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By angelo - August 31 - 2:00 am

  My Allroad has been in the shop more times than Ive driven it. From out of round tires, 4 sets of rotors replaced, squeeking seats, to an engine that needs to have its heads replaced. I love th elook and comfort but I cant justify paying $45000 just for that. Although this car is crud, the Audi service center and customer service has been outstanding.

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  Hidden Treasure - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By bpacelli - August 24 - 6:46 pm

  Our Audi Allroad is at home in any situation. The perfect commercial (hint Audi) would show this car on a race track, a snow covered highway and off road in the mud - It has done it all and always delivered! On dry pavement the ride is compliant, and handling around town or at 80 mph is impressive. Rain - see drive pavement, no difference. Snow/mud - this car is sensational. The adjustable suspension and all wheel drive give me comfort knowing my wife and two children are safe if caught in such a situation. I have had many cars, but this is the first that I bought with practical family needs in mind. Safety is the most important thing to me and this car does not disappoint. It is practical, safe, and a blast to drive!

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  Outstanding - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By arich - August 18 - 12:16 am

  Have had my 2005 Audi allroad for over a year and have driven 75% of the miles on snowy mountain roads. The performance has been outstanding. While the car drives on the heavy side, its performance in the mountains and on snow slick roads has been simply amazing. Tiptronic shifting on downhill grades is also an excellent feature. Overall the car is very comfortable to drive and ride. The only downside is that you have to use premium fuel and it gets poor mileage. My overall fuel usage since purchase has been in 16 mpg range. One needs to remember that this is a 4.2 litre V-8 engine which clearly adds to mountain and high altitude (6,500 feet or higher)performance. I traded in a BMW X5 4.0 and find the Audi to be a superior value & higher performance vehicle.

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  AWESOME CAR! nothing like it on the road - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By joedepaul - August 7 - 9:00 pm

  Got over 100K miles and drives better than great. Recently forked over a grand to get belts and pump changed as is routine for a vehicle with these many miles. Worth every penny for peace of mind. I cant say enough about the styling. Theres no other car out there in this class, new or old, that looks this good. You would think the interior would be dated but looks better than a lot of the newer luxury brands out there. The car looks great both inside and out! Quality superb! Driving dynamics and performance will keep pace with a brand new german or japanese sports sedan any day of the week. \And I have never, NEVER EVER driven a better car or SUV in the snow! AWESOME CAR!

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  belvedere - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By jonroe07508 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  to much turbo lal bad fuel mileage average raod comfort at times very rough but very well built and dependable

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  Own one. Now. - 2002 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By cleetus - July 31 - 10:00 am

  The only complaint I have about the car - since I feel any review needs some type of criticism - is the lag in the Turbo. Compared to the A6 with the same engine, the allroads longer drivetrain and heavier body give the engine a split second lag off the line. Once you get going, though, the car is peppy, and so much fun to drive.

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  2004 Audi Allroad 4.2L - 2004 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By Steve - July 14 - 7:13 am

  Bought this car after selling 2001 Allroad 2.7T; liked everything but turbo lag. Love versatility of Allroad; deceptively large cargo area, ski bag great - holds 3-4 skis, so ski rack not needed. V-8 very responsive, great handling for an SUV-type vehicle, terrific exhaust note. Fit and finish of both exterior and interior excellent. Overall, does almost everything I want. Only wish Audi continued to import Allroad to US. Plan to hold on to this one for a long time.

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  New Used Quattro - 2005 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By mercedes01 - July 12 - 5:44 pm

  Well designed auto. Very comfortable. We enjoy driving. Some difficulty steering, I assume because of the all wheel drive. My wife loves it. Plenty of room compared to other vechicles in it category. Id recommend at least a look.

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  very dissapointing - 2003 Audi Allroad Quattro
  By stugs - June 27 - 2:00 am

  turbo lag is huge