It’s the first time in the Australian market for the new A4 Allroad and it will only be available in limited numbers.
Audi has taken the A4 Avant wagon with Quattro all-wheel-drive and raised ground clearance to 180mm, added wheel arch flares, stainless steel underbody cladding, and equipped the ESC and ABS systems with off-road modes.
The turbo-diesel engine responds well, though off-the-line performance can feel slightly hesitant due to initial turbo-lag.
There’s enough grunt in reserve for highway passing, too. The seven-speed DSG-style gearbox has normal and sport modes, plus manual shifts accessed via the lever or paddle shifters on the wheel. Sport mode tends to hold lower gears a little too long at times.
Roadholding is confident and grippy through twists and turns, over hill and down dale. It felt equally secure traversing muddy, rain-soaked unsealed forestry tracks.
Brakes can seem a little ‘sudden’ at low speeds, lacking sufficient initial pedal progression.
Inside and out, the Allroad’s fit and finish is up to Audi’s usual impeccable standard. The cargo area is usefully large and includes six metal tie-down eyes for restraining loads, and sports a power-operated tailgate.
Allroad’s car-like styling and road manners make it a smart alternative to more traditionally-styled SUVs, including Audi’s own Q5, for light-duty adventuring.