Audi allroad goes mountain climbing

24 January 2002: Audi has launched its allroad quattro to Ireland by bringing potential buyers and existing Audi customers to an ‘Allroad Experience’ at Aughrim Estate in Co Wicklow.

The allroad, deliberately lowercase in name but with decidedly upper mountain aspirations, is a luxury estate based on the A6 avant aimed at the same market as Volvo’s Cross Country and the Range Rover. It is available in Ireland in two versions - a 2.5-litre TDi and a 2.7-litre petrol V6.

A 4-level air suspension is standard which automatically lowers at high speed and comes back up to a medium high setting when the vehicle is parked.

Technology aiding both road and offroad performance include an electronic stability programme and Audi’s well-established quattro drivetrain. The special suspension allows a maximum 208mm ground clearance, well into standard SUV range. A strong set of underbody and sidebody protection elements make it a sturdy vehicle to take off the tarmac.

A low range option is available, ideal for those who are into towing offroad occasionally, such as horseboxes on the farm or in the pony trials paddock.

A brief run around the mountains in Aughrim showed the allroad to be a commendably competent car for those who like to do their sightseeing from more inaccessable places. Low cloud compromised the views but not the allroad itself.

Six versions are available from eur 60,670-eur 70,980.

Allroad picture gallery.

January 2002