2010 Audi A4 allroad quattro unveiled
updated
Following the early release of some photography in late February, Audi officially revealed its 2010 Audi A4 allroad quattro at the Geneva Motor Show. Following in the footsteps of the larger A6 allroad quattro, the A4 allroad promises to offer buyers a more efficient alternative to the traditional SUV. Sadly, for U.S. wagon fans, the car will not be offered in North America.
The A4 allroad is fitted with matte-black wheel arches and an increased ride-height of 180 mm, both of which are key components of Audi's Allroad concept.
The wheel arch extensions are integrated into the surrounding design elements, showing an intentional flow from the front and rear bumpers into the newly applied flares. Similarly, a new side sill completes the design to give this wagon quite a finished look.
Audi's all-wheel drive quattro system will give the allroad some off-road capabilities, as will underbody steel plates.
Power for the A4 allroad will be provided by a 211 horsepower 2.0L TFSI, a 170 horsepower 2.0L TDI and a 240 horsepower 3.0L TDI. However, U.S. residents will likely only see that gas option. Transmission choices will include a six-speed manual and Audi's new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Bradley Stertz , Audi's head U.S. PR rep, revealed to KickingTires that there are no current plans to bring the A4 allroad quattro Stateside. Although Stertz admits the A4 allroad would find some "very loyal fans" in the United States, there simply isn't enough demand for Audi to justify the costs associated with engineering a separate version to comply with strict U.S. emissions and crash standards.
The news comes as a disappointment for sure, but Audi isn't off base with its decision. Only about 7 percent of A4 buyers opt for the Avant wagon body style, which translates into roughly 3,000 sales per year. Demand for the allroad would likely be even less - as it is a niche model that will command a higher price tag - so Audi is probably wise to leave it for the wagon-loving Europeans.
The A4 allroad quattro is expected to roll into European Audi dealers this summer.
