Audi adds another Allroad All-rounder

When Audi first launched the A6 Avant-based Allroad, many saw it as an interim model, designed to tide the company over in the burgeoning SUV market until the arrival of its purpose-designed and much larger Q7.

Thanks to strong demand, though, Audi kept the Allroad in its range when the Q7 arrived, albeit with a price premium that made the latter the more attractive financial proposition.

Now the Allroad has survived the arrival of the mid-sized Q5 soft-roader too, with the addition of a 140kW/450Nm 2.7-litre TDI version alongside the flagship 176kW/500Nm 3.0 TDI.

Listing at $114,900, the 2.7 TDI is priced to bridge the gap between the Q5 and Q7 lines, and to compensate for the quiet dropping of Avant models from the A6 line in all but the flagship S6 form.

The 2.7 TDI is still a solid performer, with the performance deficit to the 3.0 TDI much smaller than you might expect. It is also equally refined, thanks to the smoothness of the engine and the slickness of its six-speed Tiptronic transmission.

Adaptive air suspension is standard, with automatic and comfort modes the best of the three road-focused settings for local conditions.

Ride quality is excellent and the handling is well mannered, though keen drivers will crave more steering feel, and find that body roll and gentle understeer take the edge off any serious attempt at press-on motoring.

Allroad and low-speed lift-mode boost ground clearance for soft-roading, though the modest maximum 185mm of ground clearance restricts the vehicle to gentle off-road tracks. That’s fine, given the full SUV alternatives now offered in Audi’s range.

The cabin is well finished and generously proportioned, while boot space ranges from 560 litres with the rear seats up to 1660 litres with them down.

The latest version of Audi’s excellent multi-media interface, leather trim, front power seats, climate air-conditioning, cruise control and parking sensors headline a solid luxury equipment list.

An under-floor storage compartment and cargo rails with adjustable tie-down points feature in the boot.

A comprehensive safety manifest includes multiple front and side airbags, electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes, and - of course - Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Audi expects up to 65 Kiwis will be lured to the Allroad this year, drawn by the fact that it looks staunch without standing too tall, drives more like a car than an SUV, and has the traction credentials to tackle ski-field roads and slippery boat ramps with ease.

The smart ones, I think, will opt for the 2.7 TDI version.