2009 Audi A4 allroad quattro

Press release

A vehicle that knows no boundaries: Audi is launching the A4 allroad quattro. With its permanent all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance, the A4 can handle any road or trail; it also offers driving pleasure – even on unpaved surfaces. Naturally, the Audi A4 allroad quattro features all the innovative technologies which impart to the A4 model line its superiority: a range of powerful and highly energy-efficient engines, Audi drive select (intelligent handling technology), the high-tech S tronic transmission, and innovative communication and assistance systems. The vehicle will be available in early summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros.

The design of the Audi A4 allroad quattro recalls the A4 Avant: crisp lines enclose tastefully curved surfaces and the low roof line establishes a coupé-like silhouette. Striking details re-interpret this model line’s sporty elegance. The moon-gray single-frame radiator grille bears vertical chrome strips; an accentuated bumper and large air inlets underscore this vehicle’s unique identity. Chrome rings encircle the fog lights. And in the option featuring xenon plus headlights, light-emitting diodes comprise the daytime running lights and taillights. Underneath the front end and tail end, the A4 allroad has a stainless-steel underbody guard.

Viewed from the side, the vehicle dazzles with flared wheel arches, angular sills (available with stainless-steel insert strips), and large wheels – 17-inch wheels in 7-arm design are standard. The roof is capped off by an offset rail with two high crosspieces. The width of the A4 allroad quattro is emphasized by the rear bumper’s distinctive styling and the integrated horizontal reflectors. On the 2.0 TDI, the two exhaust tailpipes appear side by side; on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI, they terminate to the left and to the right.

Audi will initially offer three different engines for the A4 allroad quattro: a gasoline engine and two diesel engines. All three are turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engines. They command respect due to excellent performance, impressive pulling power, smooth running, and high fuel efficiency. The engines are further bolstered by pioneering technologies arising from Audi’s modular efficiency expertise. For example, all three units boast a standard on-board recuperation system, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy during deceleration.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro features quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Its purely mechanical center differential favors the rear, distributing power at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axle. If necessary, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive can route up to 65 percent to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end.

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Exterior design

The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s design recalls the A4 Avant, the most attractive standard-size station wagon. Its outer skin appears taut and eager. Crisp lines enclose tastefully curved surfaces; the starkly sloped coupé-like roof line, with its boldly slanted D-posts, brings out the dynamic contours. A nearly invisible zero-gap joint unites the side panels with the roof. This joint created via plasma brazing illustrates the great precision with which Audi designs and manufactures its vehicles.

Striking details re-interpret this model line’s sporty vigor. Underneath the engine compartment, the A4 allroad quattro has a solid stainless-steel underbody guard. This protrudes slightly upward at the front end and serves as an air inlet. The single-frame grille has a Luna Gray paint finish, and its vertical bars are in chrome. A new, striking bumper with pronounced air inlets underscores the vehicle’s unique identity; chrome rings encircle the standard halogen front fog lights.

The headlights provide an aesthetically pleasing stage for sophisticated Audi technology. The headlights’ wings (chromed plastic contours) have become one of the brand’s calling cards, and are shaped differently depending on the headlight version. Whereas incandescent bulbs comprise the halogen daytime running lights, the xenon plus version features sweeping slivers of light, each consisting of 14 white light-emitting diodes. These consume just nine watts of power, and thus play an admirable role in reducing CO2 emissions.

The A4 allroad quattro’s front fenders and rear side panels have a new and muscular look. Circumferential plastic trim protects the wheel arches and the side sills against contact; it is matt Platinum Gray or Black, depending on the vehicle’s paint finish. The roof is capped off by an offset rail with two high crosspieces. Viewed from the side, the 17-inch wheels in 7-arm V design exude enormity and strength with their overall diameter of 690 millimeters (27.17 inches). Audi also offers 18-inch wheels fitted with 245/45 tires.

Expressive: The rear view

The rear of the Audi A4 allroad quattro is also full of character. In the version featuring xenon plus headlights, light-emitting diodes lend sparkle to the taillights and comprise a continuous sliver of light. The lights taper inward, emphasizing the horizontal lines and consequently the vehicle’s width. Narrow reflectors in the redesigned bumper and the tailgate’s prominently three-dimensional contouring enhance this effect.

The stainless-steel rear underbody guard’s ribbed structure visually mirrors the theme of the front air inlet, and also integrates the exhaust system’s tailpipes. On the 2.0 TDI, the tailpipes appear side by side on the left; on the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI, they terminate to the left and to the right.

Two exterior packages impart an individual look to the A4 allroad quattro. The aluminum look features window frames and roof rails made of aluminum as well as supplementary moldings in the sill extensions made of stainless steel. A full paint finish builds on this version: the circumferential inlay is painted the same color as the body.

A full paint finish is available in eight colors: Ibis White, Ice Silver, Condor Gray, Meteor Gray, Phantom Black, Deep Sea Blue, Teak Brown, and Dakar Beige. Audi also offers four additional options: Stratos Blue (exclusively for the A4 allroad quattro), Sphere Blue, Garnet Red, Lava Gray, and Brilliant Black.

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Body

The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s measurements are as follows: 4.72 meters in length (15.49 ft), a wheelbase of 2.81 meters (9.22 ft), 1.84 meters in width (6.04 ft), and 1.50 meters (4.92 ft) in height. When the vehicle is unloaded, its ground clearance is 180 millimeters (7.09 inches), which is 37 millimeters (1.46 inches) more than the Audi A4 Avant. The basic version’s frontal area is 2.24 m2 (24.11 ft2) and the drag coefficient is just 0.34 thanks to extensive fine-tuning and a fully clad underbody.

The body integrates a number of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel panels which – in turn – reduce the car’s weight while enhancing its rigidity, vibrational comfort, and impact safety. At the body’s heart, however, are the hot-formed steel units – at the center tunnel, B-posts, inner sills, and bulkhead transverse member. These steel units provide exceptional tensile strength, yet comprise just 11 percent of the bodyshell’s weight.

High-tech solutions: Assembly

In addition to resistance spot welding, Audi uses a high-quality structural adhesive while assembling the vehicle’s body to further bolster the strength of joints. In the doors and near the sills, an additional high-precision technology is used to reduce the vehicle’s weight: remote laser welding.

An array of precisely arranged metal sections protects Audi A4 allroad quattro passengers in the event of an accident. Both front airbags acknowledge the precise positions of the driver and front-seat passenger; in conjunction with the adaptive seatbelt tensioners, passengers of all sizes enjoy excellent protection. In addition, there are side airbags in the front and, optionally, in the rear, as well. Last but not least, a head-protection airbag system also stands at the ready.

In the event of a rear-end collision, a standard, integral head-restraint system for front-seat passengers diminishes the risk of whiplash by supporting the upper parts of their bodies. And the seatbelt tensioners ensure that passengers remain safely seated during a severe rear-end collision. An optional ISOFIX child-seat anchor can be integrated in the front passenger seat; an on/off switch for the airbag is also available.

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Luggage compartment

The Audi A4 allroad quattro’s luggage compartment features a load-through hatch one meter in width (3.28 feet) and can hold cargo 1.03 meters (3.38 feet) in length; its base capacity is 490 liters (17.3 cubic feet). It is lined with high-quality carpet. And thanks to the ingenious design and low loading sill covered by a stainless-steel protective molding, the luggage compartment is extremely handy. The rear seatbacks, split 40:60, can be folded down with two flicks of the wrist to increase the luggage compartment’s capacity to a length of 1.78 meters (5.84 feet) and a volume of 1,430 liters (50.5 cubic feet).

Befitting its versatile nature, the A4 allroad quattro boasts a wealth of intelligent touches. The load guard and the deluxe load-area cover are stored in separate compartments for the sake of simplicity. A mere tap of the hand actuates a spring, causing the cover to automatically retract upward between two guideways. Pulling the cover down also could not be easier. When the tailgate is fully open, people 1.89 meters (6.2 feet) in height can stand underneath it!

Intelligent touch: The reversible loadliner

Like the roof rails, the reversible loadliner is convenient standard equipment. Located in the rear of the luggage compartment, its underside has been designed as a water-resistant and dirt-resistant tray, making it the ideal place to store wet ski equipment and the like. Two handles allow you to grip and carry the loadliner like a tray. Additional standard equipment includes four sturdy fastening rings, two elegant bag hooks, a 12-volt outlet, and a shelf to the side with a horizontally sliding net.

A series of optional features makes the Audi A4 allroad quattro even more practical. There is a reversible mat with a fold-out cover for the bumper, an electromechanical assembly for the tailgate, and a load-securing set, which includes a telescopic rod and a spring-loaded tensioning strap. Latched to rails in the floor, the load-securing set allows the customer to divide the luggage compartment as they wish. The rear seats optionally feature a load-through hatch with a ski bag. Additional optional equipment includes a trailer hitch and special roof rack for bicycles, skis, and kayaks.

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Interior

Plenty of room, uncompromising quality, and flawless functionality: the interior of the Audi A4 allroad quattro embodies all the strengths Audi is famous for. It is tailored like a sleek-fitting suit: bright, elegant, clear. The shapes, the materials chosen and used, the haptic charm of the surfaces: the interior offers sensory bliss.

The front seats are contoured and low-slung, perfectly integrating the driver and passengers into the sporty ambience. Beyond the standard height-adjustable seats, Audi also offers electrical adjustability and a seat-heating system – optionally for the outside rear seats, as well.

The optional sports seats have pronounced side sections, pull-out thigh supports, and four-way lumbar support. And the climate-controlled comfort seats offer the utmost in luxury: not only can they be heated, they also deliver relief on hot days thanks to an integrated cooling unit with small fans. And if the temperature could become chilly, then an auxiliary heater automatically turns on.

The A4 allroad quattro’s long wheelbase ensures plenty of interior space in the rear as well as in the front. Large cup holders and spacious storage compartments hold bottles and other items. An optional storage package features additional compartments and nets. A center armrest with storage box and two 12-volt outlets are available for the front seats. The armrest can be moved toward the front or rear, is height-adjustable, and features especially soft upholstery.

Focus on the driver: The cockpit

The cockpit is clearly aligned toward the driver. The center console is offset to the left by eight degrees; the steering wheel is adjustable for height and reach. The dashboard’s large and easy-to-read instruments constitute classic Audi styling elements. The center display is standard; its screen is between the speedometer and the tachometer.

The standard CD sound system “chorus” delivers 80 watts to eight speakers; its switches and pushbuttons are easily accessible in the center console. Underneath the sound system is the control panel for the standard automatic air conditioning system: a cutting-edge unit which is extremely efficient, strong, quiet, and luxurious. Audi also offers a deluxe automatic air conditioning system which maintains the interior temperature in three separate zones.

Another particularly luxurious feature is the high-beam assistant. Aided by a small light-sensitive detector, it automatically switches between high beams and low beams. In the version featuring xenon plus headlights, their range is dynamically adjusted. When the A4 allroad quattro reaches 120 km/h (74.56 mph), the headlights are adjusted slightly upward for highway driving.

A large on-board monitor with a 6.5-inch screen is high up and in the center of the cockpit. The screen is in color in conjunction with the concert and symphony sound systems, or with the MMI Navigation system plus. The Multi Media Interface’s control unit is housed in the center console. The large buttons around the central rotary pushbutton encourage intuitive operation. The center console also houses the button for the standard electromechanical parking brake; the optional Audi hold assist enhances the brake’s functionality.

Sporty elegance: Color and trim

Sporty elegance also characterizes the interior’s colors and materials. Carpeting is made of velour; the headlining is star silver, linen beige, or black (optional). The air vents, the parking brake’s button, and the light switch gleam thanks to their aluminum look. And the door sill trims bear special allroad logos. Standard inlays are micrometallic platinum; options include aluminum trigon, open-pored and dark fine-grain ash, laurel nutmeg, and walnut brown.

Customers can choose one of several different trim materials: an exclusive allroad fabric, two types of leather (Milano or Valcona), or an Alcantara/leather combination. The fabric designs are available in black or pale gray, and the leather trim in seven colors – two of which feature sporty contrasting stitching. The Audi exclusive program offers additional exquisite leather options for individualists.

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Engines

Audi will initially offer three different engines for the A4 allroad quattro: a gasoline unit and two diesel engines. All three are turbocharged with direct fuel-injection as per the TFSI or TDI principle. They are impressive for their excellent performance, impressive pulling power, smooth running, and high fuel efficiency.

The 2.0 TFSI – voted “Engine of the Year” on four consecutive occasions by an international panel of experts – incorporates three high-end technologies in this latest stage of its evolution: FSI direct gasoline injection, turbocharging, and the Audi valvelift system, which boosts pulling power by variably controlling the exhaust valves’ lift. Direct fuel injection and turbocharging have been a successful combination at Audi for years, as the R8 racing car has demonstrated with its triumphs at the Le Mans 24 Hours and many other events.

High compression ratio: Ensuring excellent efficiency

In the high-volume engine as well, this technological twosome is a perfect solution. Injected at a pressure of 150 bar in the 2.0 TFSI and then swirled by flaps, the gasoline vaporizes and thus removes heat from the combustion chambers – this in turn solves the conventional turbocharging problem of engine knock. This facilitates a compression ratio of 9.6:1 for excellent efficiency.

The 2.0 TFSI, which delivers power from a displacement of 1,984 cm3, provides additional high-tech features. All components have been designed to minimize friction and the oil pump works very efficiently. The crankcase weighs just over 30 kilograms (66 pounds). Two balance shafts contribute to excellent refinement, and the intake camshaft can be adjusted by 60 degrees.

The turbocharger and its intercooler have been optimized for sporty responsiveness and a high efficiency ratio. Between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm, the four-cylinder engine delivers 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft. Peak output is 155 kW (211 hp). In conjunction with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the 2.0 TFSI propels the Audi A4 allroad quattro to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.9 seconds, and to a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). On average, it consumes a mere 8.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (29.04 U.S. mpg).

TDI, the world’s most successful efficiency technology, also stands for modern and smart sportiness: terrific torque, powerful performance, excellent refinement, and outstanding fuel efficiency. It was back in 1989 that Audi introduced TDI. And the brand with the four rings has been continuously consolidating its technological superiority ever since. The R10 TDI racing car proved with its victories at Le Mans just how muscular diesel can be.

Top of the engine range is the 3.0 TDI, featuring six cylinders in a 90-degree V configuration. The cylinder block is made of vermicular-graphite cast iron, a high-tech material which unites high rigidity with low weight. Intensive finishing grinding reduces internal friction. The cylinder barrels, for example, are illuminated by a laser beam, which reduces the tension forces at piston rings and further increases service life.

A common-rail system providing injection pressure of 1,800 bar and lightning-fast piezo injectors precisely prepare the mixture. A speedy electric motor adjusts the turbocharger’s vanes and the intercooler attains especially high thermal efficiency. The V6 diesel also excels via clean exhaust with a low proportion of nitrogen oxides.

Robust crankshaft: 500 Nm of torque starting at 1,500 rpm

The 3.0 TDI, which delivers 176 kW (240 hp) from a displacement of 2,967 cm3, transmits – at 1,500 to 3,000 rpm – 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft, which remains unperturbed by such a blast of power. The Audi A4 allroad quattro 3.0 TDI, aided by the high-tech S tronic transmission, reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.4 seconds, and tops out at 236 km/h(146.64 mph). On average, the three-liter engine sips only 7.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (33.13 U.S. mpg). Like all engines in this portfolio, it already meets the Euro 5 emission standard; as in the case of the 2.0 TDI, a particulate filter is standard.

As for the 2.0 TDI, the successor to the world’s most-built diesel engine ever, a common-rail system with four piezo injectors provides injection pressure of 1,800 bar and ensures excellent refinement. Up to five precisely modulated injection processes take place during every power stroke. Two balance shafts counteract the second-order inertial forces. Adjustable vanes in the turbocharger, swirl flaps in the intake manifold, and specialized dimensional characteristics of the pistons collectively optimize charging efficiency in the combustion chambers. The four-cylinder engine can operate on a high proportion of cooled exhaust gas, which removes a significant amount of nitrogen oxides from untreated emissions.

From a displacement of 1,968 cm3, the two-liter diesel engine delivers 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. A respectable 125 kW (170 hp) provides good output: the Audi A4 allroad quattro 2.0 TDI reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 213 km/h (132.35 mph). It nevertheless requires just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 U.S. mpg) on average.

New efficiency technology: The start-stop system

This high fuel efficiency is largely due to the synergetic impact of new technologies from Audi’s modular efficiency platform. The 2.0 TDI and the 2.0 TFSI will incorporate three such technologies as standard equipment starting in summer 2009. First among them is a high-performance start-stop system. It reduces fuel consumption by some 0.2 liters/100 km, which equates to 5 grams of CO2/km (8.05 g/mile).

The start-stop system achieves especially impressive fuel savings regarding city driving. As soon as the vehicle comes to a stop, the shift lever is in neutral, and the driver removes their foot from the clutch pedal, the system turns the engine off. It then turns the engine back on as soon as the clutch pedal is depressed.

The start-stop system functions quietly, conveniently, and quickly. When the driver puts the vehicle in gear, the engine instantaneously returns to its idle speed. A mighty battery ensures flawless operation even at low temperatures; it is deactivated only during the engine’s warm-up period. The driver can turn the system on or off at the touch of a button at any time.

The second of the three efficiency technologies is the energy-recovery system. During a vehicle’s braking and coasting phases, it converts kinetic energy to electrical energy, which is temporarily stored in the electrical system’s battery. When the vehicle resumes acceleration, the battery supplies this stored energy to the engine – thus reducing the load on the alternator.

The third new module from the modular efficiency platform is the new on-board computer with efficiency program. Via the instrument panel’s display screen, it portrays all data regarding fuel efficiency. The efficiency program continuously monitors energy consumption by various components in the car and, if desired, displays the key sources of consumption. In some cases, it provides advice to the driver – to close the windows if the air conditioning is turned on, for example. This new system makes driving even more fun, yet also reminds drivers of their own responsibility. After all, some 30 percent of fuel consumption depends on the driver’s decisions.

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Driveline

Each of the transmissions for the A4 allroad quattro has been integrated into the innovative basic layout of the A4 family. The differential is in front of the clutch and immediately behind the engine. This technical stroke of genius made it possible to reposition the front axle much closer to the vehicle’s front end, in turn allowing for a longer wheelbase and an ideal distribution of the axle loads. This modification was simplified by relocating the battery to the luggage compartment. The benefits include excellent dynamism, steady straight-line stability, and superb ride comfort.

All the engines transmit their power to a six-speed manual transmission. Short gearshift travel makes ultraprecise shifting child’s play and the intelligent placement of the shift forks protects the shift lever against vibrations. The manual transmission also excels thanks to its low weight and a high efficiency ratio; a broad array of measures reduces internal friction. A redesigned gearshift indicator – the on-board computer with efficiency program integrated in the driver information system – unmistakably notifies the driver via different sizes and colors as soon as it becomes sensible to shift gears to conserve fuel.

High-tech excellence from Audi: Seven-speed S tronic

Audi includes a high-tech transmission as optional equipment for the 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI. The highly efficient, seven-speed S tronic distinguishes itself by precise control management, a high efficiency ratio, and a broad spread of the gear ratios. First gear is sporty, seventh fuel-sipping.

The seven-speed S tronic consists of two sub-transmissions, which are alternately actuated by two clutches. This dual-clutch transmission can thus shift extremely smoothly within a few hundredths of a second – cutting-edge technology in motion! The electronic control management has a fully automatic mode at the ready, with two types of operation: D (Drive) and S (Sport). The driver can use the selector lever to shift whenever they wish, even via optional shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Regardless of the engine type underneath an A4 allroad quattro’s hood, quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard. It ensures those superior properties which long ago became bywords for the Audi brand: outstanding driving dynamics, traction, driving safety, and straight-line stability all symbolize Audi’s renowned Vorsprung durch Technik. Regardless of conditions, the Audi A4 allroad quattro offers excellent stability and is an ideal towcar.

The classic heart of the quattro drivetrain is a self-locking center differential, which operates by purely mechanical means and therefore instantaneously. Under typical driving conditions, it distributes 40 percent of the torque input to the front axle and 60 percent to the rear axle for sportiness. In the event of axle slippage, the differential transfers a majority of the power to the other axle. Should a wheel somehow nevertheless slip, then the electronic differential lock (EDL) brakes that wheel to improve traction. EDL also promotes smooth starts.

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Chassis

The Audi A4 allroad quattro is a close relative of the A4 Avant, and its chassis retains all the advantages which distinguish the A4 model line. The chassis spontaneously adapts when the vehicle enters a curve; it is also superbly stable and nearly neutral at the A4 allroad quattro’s impressive cornering limit. The vehicle’s width lays the foundation for these remarkable attributes. The car’s track is 1,583 mm (62.32 in.) at the front and 1,574 mm (61.97 in.) at the rear – some 20 mm (0.79 in.) wider, respectively, than the A4 Avant.

At a ratio of 16.1 : 1, steering is straightforward. The low-mounted steering gear conveys the driver’s input directly to the wheels. Feedback from the road is responsive: traction forces and disruptive forces are practically imperceptible. Exact centering when driving in a straight line facilitates precise steering from the central position. The steering box’s power-steering pump conveys just the required amount of oil, conserving some 0.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. The 3.0 TDI and the 2.0 TFSI roll off the assembly line with servotronic, which adjusts its power-steering assistance to the current speed of travel.

Key components of the front suspension are made of lightweight aluminum: a support for the engine and axle, firmly bolted to the front end to boost rigidity; a mounting bracket connecting the upper trailing arm with the body; a pivot bearing; and five trailing arms per wheel. A tubular anti-roll bar also cuts down on weight. A five-link suspension can handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately. Their bearings are rigid when crosswise, fostering sporty precision; on the other hand, the bearings are remarkably pliable when lengthwise.

The design of the rear axle on the A4 allroad quattro is based on Audi’s principle of the self-tracking trapezoidal link, which unites compact construction with top-notch comfort and drivability. A steel subframe connected to the body via hydraulic bearings constitutes the ultrastrong backbone. The trapezoidal link, the wheel carriers, the overhead control arms, and the tie rods are made of aluminum; the anti-roll bar is a hollow tube. The springs are supported directly by the wheel carriers, and are housed separately from the shock absorbers to facilitate ideal performance.

The body is higher than that of the Audi A4 Avant by 37 millimeters (1.46 inches) thanks to correspondingly modified shock absorbers. The Audi A4 allroad quattro standard, 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels in 7-arm V design are fitted with 225/55 tires. 17-inch winter wheels are also optionally available. Audi also offers 18-inch wheels in 5-arm and 10-spoke designs, fitted with 245/45 tires. A tire-pressure monitoring display for all wheels is standard.

Strong stopper: The wheel brakes

Like every Audi, the A4 allroad quattro boasts powerful brakes. The brake disks have a diameter of 314 millimeters (12.36 inches) at the front (320 millimeters (12.60 inches) for the 3.0 TDI) and 300 millimeters (11.81 inches) at the rear. The high-performance brake pads generate a high coefficient of friction and are practically impervious to brake fade. The ventilated front disks have been designed to maximize heat dissipation. In lieu of conventional cooling ducts, hundreds of tiny metal cubes connect the two disk halves – thus allowing a large volume of air to escape. The wheel brakes are very low in weight. The 3.0 TDI has floating calipers at the front; their composite construction consists of high-strength nodular cast iron and aluminum.

The electronic stabilization program (ESP) provides precise and unobtrusive assistance. In rough terrain, a cutting-edge standard feature is put into play: Offroad Detection technology automatically identifies the type of driving surface and accordingly adjusts the ESP’s control parameters. When the driver depresses the gas pedal, ESP increases propulsive power by tolerating more wheel spin than otherwise. If necessary, it will brake for a long time in the interest of safety.

On paved roads, the optional Audi drive select system further enhances the joys of driving. It is always paired with Audi dynamic steering in the A4 allroad quattro. Consisting of a superposition gear system integrated in the steering column, Audi drive select varies the steering ratio in a continuously variable manner by nearly 100 percent. It functions directly at low speeds and indirectly at high speeds; the power steering adjusts correspondingly.

If the A4 allroad quattro is at the limits of handling – oversteering, understeering, or during braking maneuvers where one side of the car could skid – Audi dynamic steering keeps the car on course via minor split-second corrective actions. It thus eliminates the necessity for extensive ESP intervention, making driving even safer and smoother.

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Equipment

The Audi A4 allroad quattro will be available at dealerships early this summer at a basic price of 37,100 euros. It is generously equipped with 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels, front fog lights, a headlight washer system, roof rails, a deluxe load-area cover, a reversible loadliner, an automatic air conditioning system, an electromechanical parking brake, and a sound system with CD player.

Optional equipment also includes a multitude of attractive features. The two-part panoramic glass roof with an electrically operated interior shade suffuses the interior with sunlight and fresh air. The optional steering wheels bear three or four spokes and multifunction pushbuttons. For the 2.0 TFSI and the 3.0 TDI, shift paddles are available. The lights package provides small spotlights for the interior. Complementary to the light and rain sensors, the high-beam assistant automatically switches between high beams and low beams.

You never need to remove the advanced key from your pocket: it communicates remotely with the car and you simply push a button on the center tunnel to start the engine. Additional luxurious options include the electromechanical tailgate, the deluxe automatic air conditioning plus, the xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, the cornering light system known as adaptive light, climate-controlled comfort seats, sun shades for the rear side windows, Audi drive select, both exterior packages, and the alarm system.

If a customer so desires, they can take delivery of an A4 allroad quattro with innovative assistance systems straight from the luxury class. Audi lane assist helps the driver to remain in a given lane via a small camera; Audi side assist employs radar to help drivers change lanes more safely.

Adaptive cruise control is a radar-assisted cruise control system which detects vehicles ahead and maintains the proper following distance by briefly decelerating or accelerating on its own. Should the rate of deceleration not suffice, the system alerts the driver via one of two alarms based on the extent of danger. The Audi parking system advanced features a rear-view camera; its images are displayed via the on-board monitor.

Multimedia by Audi: The very best in infotainment

Audi also offers an intelligent array of multimedia modules, and a navigation system is available. The MMI navigation plus system belongs to Audi’s cutting-edge generation of new high-tech devices. It integrates a color screen with three-dimensional maps, a DVD player, a voice-activated unit facilitating whole-word commands, and a large hard disk drive which stores data for navigation, music, and phoning. A joystick-like cap on the MMI terminal makes it simple to use the navigation plus system.

Various cell-phone solutions enable convenient phoning. The premium option is the Bluetooth car phone with cordless handset, which uploads data from the driver’s personal cell phone via the SIM Access Profile. Signals are processed digitally and the vehicle’s sound system transmits the voices. A voice control system is required for the Bluetooth car phone as well as the audio and navigation functions.

Component concept: The sound systems

Audi also offers sophisticated audio-system packages, either as part of a navigation system or individually. The concert sound system has a color screen and a memory card reader; the symphony sound system adds to that a six-disk CD changer. The Audi music interface seamlessly incorporates the customer’s iPod into the system; the Audi sound system integrates a 180-watt six-channel amplifier and ten speakers.

But the sound system by Danish hi-fi specialists Bang & Olufsen is the top-of-the-range solution. Its ten-channel amplifier delivers 505 watts of breathtaking surround sound via 14 high-performance speakers concealed behind aluminum-inlay covers. Both sound systems can be rendered even more sophisticated by means of tuner modules for digital TV/radio reception. Audi also offers a rear-seat entertainment system.