The Allroad is available with two turbodiesel engines. Both the 183bhp 2.7-litre TDI and 236bhp 3.0 TDI have plenty of pulling power for easy overtaking. The 3.2 V6 petrol is smooth and refined, if a little short of pull at motorway speeds. There are no such worries with the 4.2 V8, which is very quick.
The Allroad is based on the A6 Avant estate, and uses that car’s optional air suspension. This can be set to increase the ground clearance for gentle off-road excursions. It provides a comfortable ride and keeps the big estate body under control through the corners. The standard quattro four-wheel drive system ensures excellent traction.
The Allroad is peacefully quiet at all speeds. Despite the presence of the roof rails (standard on all cars), wind noise never intrudes into the cabin, and the engines are civilised performers. The automatic gearbox – standard on most models – keeps the revs at a subdued level most of the time.
The Allroad costs a couple of thousand pounds more than the regular A6 Avant – itself not a cheap car – but you do get the extra equipment detailed above. Pick one of the diesel models for the cheapest bills. It’s too early to predict resale values, but they are likely to be respectable rather than outstanding.
Audi’s renowned build quality permeates every nook and cranny of the Allroad. This is a very well built car, whose materials inside and out suggest it will last a very long time.
Stability control and anti-lock brakes help avoid accidents, while the standard four-wheel-drive will help prevent an accident in the first place. Twin front, side and curtain airbags protect passengers if the worst happens. Options include adaptive headlights that can shine round corners. An alarm and remote locking are standard.
As in the A6, drivers and passengers alike will be perfectly comfortable in the Allroad. All the controls and switches are logically placed and there’s a good amount of seat and wheel adjustment, so you’ll have little problem making yourself comfortable.
The regular A6 Avant provides plenty of space and the beefed-up Allroad is no different. There is a vast 565-litre boot with the seats up and it’s a cinch to lower the rear chairs for even more space – up to 1660 litres of luggage can be accommodated. The interior is littered with cubbyholes and power points to make family life that bit easier.
Every Allroad comes with Audi’s Quattro four-wheel-drive system and air suspension, plus special stability control to keep the car going no matter what the road conditions. Twin-zone climate control, aluminium cabin trim and niceties such as an electric parking brake are standard. The Allroad is also fitted with Audi’s MMI system that allows you to control various in-car functions using a rotary dial linked to a display screen.