Category: Small 4x4s 
Price Range: No data available
Drives as well as A4 Avant, butch looks, fine fuel consumption, increased towing capacity.
Limited off-road ability, expensive.
It's difficult to makes a case for the A4 Allroad over the excellent Q5.
We drove the three launch engines: a 208bhp 2.0-litre petrol turbo, the 168bhp 2.0 TDI and the 237bhp 3.0 diesel. They all have to cope with a substantial kerbweight: 1,650kg for the petrol and a lardy 1,730kg for the heaviest diesel. This, on average, is around 35kgs heavier than the A4 Avant, although the new Allroad comes with the option of the new seven-speed twin clutch auto.
This weight has blunted the A4 Allroad's performance. The 208bhp 2.0 TFSI doesn't feel anywhere near as quick as its stated time of 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds. The 168bhp 2.0 TDI takes a less-than-sparkling 8.9 seconds to hit 62mph and it doesn't feel that much faster than its 138bhp sibling.
The most powerful 3.0 TDI is quickest, hitting 62mph in just 6.6 seconds. Both the 237bhp 3.0 TDI and 208bhp 2.0 petrol we drove had the seven-speed DSG auto box rather than Audi's conventional six-speed auto. It impressed as usual with its smoothness and lightning-quick gear changes but it did suffer some slight shunting that hindered smoothness.
Gearchanges also became erratic when the firm's optional Drive Select is locked in Dynamic. We preferred the system in 'auto' or comfort for a less hyperactive gearbox and more linear steering feel.
The A4 Allroad feels as poised as the A4 Avant despite both the added weight and the 37mm raised ride height. Body roll is well contained, since the engineers widened the front and rear tracks by 20mm to compensate for the loftier ride height.
Grip levels are also high thanks to the big 18" wheels and, as always, the handling - even with the 4x4 Quattro drivetrain - doesn't feel quite as balanced as the rear-wheel-drive BMW 3-Series.
