This all-wheel drive station wagon is based on the A4 sedan platform which adds more wandering capabilities. The “quattro” bit is Audi’s famed AWD system that switches between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
The 2.0-liter TFSI turbo-four cranks out 252 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, which is sent to the wheels through a seven-speed “S tronic” automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive system. The EPA fuel economy is 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway for a combined 25 mpg. I averaged a little better than that with token off-road driving.
The A4 allroad comes in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus, and finally Premium Plus with Prestige Package at the top. This top-of-line will be the focus for this review.
Inside, the cabin is comfortable and roomy, even though the sports seats are just a little tight. The soft seats complement the other attractive leather parts of the cabin. There is 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space that expands to 58.5 cubic feet when the back seats fold down. The power tailgate is of great assistance in cargo loading.
The 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster is bold and brightly colored. It is capable of displaying a 3D map. A knob turn increases and decreases feature size, while the speedometer and tachometer are smaller, but easy to read.
The steering wheel has controls that allow you to command most of the features.
The center console is spacious, but cup holders are located close up to the bottom of the dash, so only short cups or object will fit into the holders. A Big Gulp or 20 oz. Dr Pepper are definitely out.
The best feature is a knob for sound adjustment. No fumbling or going off course trying to turn the sound up or down.
The optional 8.3-inch “MMI Navigation plus” infotainment system is controlled through “MMI touch,” which has a touchpad on top of the main dial for hand writing recognition, to complement dial, button, and voice controls. I thoroughly enjoyed making use of the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Standard radio has eight preset buttons just a soft touch away.
Another great technology in the Audi Premium Plus is the Audi “drive select” above the console. It offers the five modes of Off-road, Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Individual. I encourage you to try them to find the perfect setting for a personal experience.
The Prestige Package ($8,500) consists of nearly two dozen features that make the driving experience even better. Featured items are Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assistance, Audi Lane Assist and LED Headlights, and 19 speakers just to name a few.
Who knows, maybe the station wagon will make a comeback. It is definitely a head turner. Its sleek aerodynamic exterior good looks along with easy handling and dependable gas mileage make the Audi A4 a top new car selection.
There is an $850 Cold Weather Package that warms about everything. A $1,450 Warm Weather Package cools and ventilates the lumbar seats and just about anything else that might get a little toasty.
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $44,500.
Warranty
4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Warranty
12-year Corrosion Perforation Warranty
1-year/10,000-mile Free Maintenance Service
4-years Roadside Assistance Coverage provided by third party
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at dcaussey@sbcglobal.net
