It’s been seven years since an allroad was for sale in North America and it has big shoes to fill. Since its first launch there’s no denying this vehicle has become a cult classic. Audi invited QuattroWorld to beautiful Avon, Colorado to check out and drive the brand new 2013 allroad in some of the most scenic parts in the country. I used the opportunity to test it on the highway and as well as through some back country dirt roads. My experience with the new A4 allroad made me a big fan of this car on its own right, not as just a replacement for an old favorite, but more so as a whole new car.

There’s something special about the previous allroad. It had the capacity to tackle any terrain without the SUV size or stigma. Allroad owners are very loyal and some have spent lots of time and energy to keep their now 11-year-old cars running. This is very evident on the QuattroWorld forums where you will find all the solutions you need to troubleshoot and repair your car. In fact, even though the allroad sold only a fraction of other models, the allroad forum is one of our most active!

The new allroad is built to own any road. Audi utilized their modular MLB platform, which allows them to pick and choose the chassis components without having to build a whole new platform. For instance Audi was able to utilize the A5s wider track to allow for better off-road stability. Additionally, Audi has added 7.1-inches of ground clearance, a specially tuned ABS system to cope with various terrain, an allroad specific grill and stainless steel front and rear skid plates to protect the car. Audi’s signature LED daytime running lights also carry over and have been updated for 2013.  The snow mode allows for more wheel slippage along with adjusted ABS pulses to help the driver maintain control.

Driving back to Denver I turned off the highway and onto some twisty and bumpy dirt roads where the car traveled with ease. The suspension soaked up all of the dips and dives while the ESP and quattro worked incredibly well together to keep the allroad moving where I pointed it. The car is well suited for soft road conditions as well as less than ideal weather conditions. 

Back on the highway there wasn’t a hint of float while traveling at high speeds. Clocking miles effortlessly this car completely removes any sense of speed and road noise. It really took me back just how quiet and comfortable it is. With plenty of cargo room, great space for the driver and passengers and excellent fuel economy. I have no doubt this would make a perfect road trip car

The best turbo four cylinder on the market powers the allroad. Audi’s 2.0 TFSI Engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Audi has increased the final drive slightly to help with less than ideal conditions the allroad is built for. The 8-speed is very efficient and quick to respond to any changes in current driving conditions. Even at 10,000 feet the 2.0T maintained itself very well and was able to perform lane changes and passes with minimal effort. I’m very impressed with the engine/transmission pairing. And for 2013 Audi has introduced it’s new electrical mechanical steering rack, which replaces the traditional hydraulic system. This does two things: reduces the cars overall weight and emissions output by 11 g/mile. This is partially due to the steering not needing input for straight-ahead motion. The difference between the old and new systems isn’t obvious; The traditional Audi steering feel is maintained; it’s quick to respond, and very smooth.

Audi is now on their 3rd revision of their MMI system with the addition of Audi Connect. Audi Connect includes built-in 3G connectivity to bring Google Services including Google Earth, Street View and Search to the MMI. The 3G connectivity can also be shared with up to 5 devices with the cars built-in Wi-Fi network. They have also redesigned the controls and reduced the number of MMI buttons from 8 to 6 to help simplify operation. Also, for the audiophiles you can option the 500 watt 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen Sound System which for us is a must.

How does the new B8 allroad compare to the C5? The new model is 0.6-inches wider, 2.3 inches taller and has 1.5 inches of greater ground clearance compared to its predecessor. With the use of aluminum and other advanced construction techniques, Audi was able to achieve a weight savings of 364 pounds over the previous allroad. The 2013 model is lighter, faster and more efficient.

The 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 produced 247 hp with 258 lb-ft of torque and was paired with automatic or manual transmissions. It’s capable of reaching 60 mph in 7.3 sec. while consuming 16.0 mpg City / 22.0 Highway. The new 2.0-liter TFSI produces 211 hp with 258 lb-ft of torque and is paired only with a 6-speed automatic. The 2.0T is capable of 0-60 mph of 6.5 sec. while consuming 20 mpg City / 27 mpg Highway, so the B8 has a slight advantage over the C5. Even when the C5 is equipped with the 4.2L V8 the 2.0T is still able to outpace it and certainly in a much more fuel-efficient manner. 

The A6 allroad variant still exists in Europe and may someday find itself in the U.S. again. I agree that a 6-speed would make a great option and with many Audi buyers in North America choosing the 6-speed on other models, I hope it will have its time. As for the suspension I think Audi has done a great job compromising adjustability with the fixed height. I don’t disagree with some of the diehards that are demanding an A6-based allroad, with hydraulic suspension. The fact remains however that Audi does not see a business justification to bring this car (which exists in Europe) to the USA. We hope that the A4-based allroad is a huge success, which may lead to them having that justification after all.

For now, allroad diehards my grumble about the lack or 6spd or air suspension, but what they can’t deny is that this new version is faster, lighter, more fuel efficient and just as capable no matter where its adventures take it. Oh, and its cheaper too. 

Pricing: