Overview
The Audi A4 Allroad is stylish but not gaudy, practical but never dowdy, luxurious but not ostentatious. In essence, it’s a wagonized A4, but extra cargo space isn’t the only thing separating this wagon from its sedan sibling. The Allroad is lifted 1.3 inches, clad in SUV-like black plastic wheel-arch moldings, and propelled by a new version of Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. It’s not a true off-roader, but buyers will appreciate the Allroad’s sure-footedness in bad weather. Against all odds, the luxury-wagon market is booming, and the A4 Allroad has stiff competition from the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E400 wagon and the Volvo V90 Cross Country. The Audi’s fully realized powertrain, above-average agility, and leading-edge infotainment features make it a strong contender in a deepening field.
What’s New for 2017?
The A4 Allroad is all new for 2017. Key features include increased ground clearance, revised suspension with standard adaptive dampers, and the latest Quattro system that can send torque to the front or all four wheels, The exterior has been redesigned to match the rest of the Audi family, replete with sharp angles and creased lines overlaid on a flowing form. The engine has also undergone some tweaks, and the Allroad’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is new to the nameplate this year.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Premium: $44,950
- Premium Plus: $47,950
- Prestige: $52,350
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
There’s only one available powertrain for the A4 Allroad, but it’s a good one. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 252 hp and mates to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and the latest version of Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The engine is pleasant, punchy, and downright quick, while the gearbox modulates its attitude to snap off quick shifts under hard driving or more relaxed changes around town. It feels like a car rather than an SUV, something a lot of buyers will appreciate. While the Allroad feels larger than the A4 sedan, it’s still quick and agile and responds sharply to steering inputs. For a lifted wagon, the Allroad drives and rides like a dream.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The A4 Allroad has an attractive, businesslike interior. It may not be beautiful, but the Allroad is perfectly functional, handsome, nicely appointed, and comfortable. Its back seat has nearly as much legroom as the Mercedes E400 wagon and the Volvo V90 Cross Country. As befits a luxury model, the Allroad comes standard with power-adjustable leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and three-zone automatic climate control. We’re less thrilled that heated seats aren’t standard in the entry-level trim, but the Allroad is still a perfectly acceptable entry into the luxury market. The Allroad is small compared with several other competitors in this class, and consequently it’s not a champion cargo hauler. Its interior storage compartments are also somewhat unimpressive.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Audi’s infotainment system is easy to use and has a stunning array of available features. The MMI system’s standard tech includes a 7.0-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two USB ports, and 10-speaker audio. Higher trims add such features as navigation and an 8.3-inch display. The MMI system’s newest crown jewel is the optional Virtual Cockpit, a high-resolution configurable display that lives where the gauge cluster would normally be.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Audi A4 Allroad’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.