The 2016 model year brings a few running changes to the Audi A4 Allroad, the brand's smallest crossover that is also the closest North American buyers can get to A4 Avant (wagon) sold in other markets. Most of the new stuff all comes to the base model, like Audi connect functionality for the optional navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen stereo for cars with the technology package and a newly-optional advanced key. Standard is a new three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel.
The Allroad is Audi's answer to the Volvo XC70, and an upscale alternative to a car-based crossover like the Subaru Outback. This is a pretty small segment of the crossover market, but remains the only way a handful of automakers will sell you something resembling a compact station wagon, with the benefit of a raised ride height and all-wheel traction. It may not be a station wagon per se, but its wagon starting point makes this more of a driver's crossover than most others: while its long-travel suspension affects cornering agility to some extent, the Allroad doesn't suffer the double-whammy of most true crossovers with their taller bodies.
Allroad's A4 starting point means it gets the same powertrain as that sedan: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. On paper, that's one of the smallest, least-potent engines you can get in a upscale compact-to-midsize crossover, but Audi's motors are known to feel stronger than their numbers suggest. In any event, that small-displacement engine gives the Allroad attractive fuel consumption figures: Natural Resources Canada's estimates are 11.2/8.4 L/100 km (city/highway).
For the Komfort trim's $47,300 price of entry, the Allroad comes with 18-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, 10-speaker stereo with satellite radio and auxiliary input, rain-sensing wipers, power tailgate, HID headlights, fog lights, tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, trip computer, cruise control, heated side mirrors, Bluetooth, heated front seats, leather upholstery and a power driver's seat.
Mid-range Progressiv trim comes in at $51,300 and adds navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear seat climate control, hard disc drive media storage, intelligent keyless entry with push-button start, garage door opener, backup camera with rear parking sensors, power-folding side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable front passenger seat, and front seat memory function.
For $53,700, Technik trim adds an upgraded stereo, heated rear seats and blind spot monitoring.
Progressiv and Technik models can be had with optional woodgrain interior trim and Technik trim can be optioned with adaptive cruise control.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
