Audi A6 Allroad quattro 3.0 TDI: Preview!

Thursday, May 04, 2006

Audi A6 Allroad quattro 3.0 TDI: Preview!

UK's AutoExpress has a nice preview of the Audi A6 Allroad quattro 3.0 TDI.

On tarmac is where the newcomer needs to excel, and with the A6 Avant as a basis, it's an accomplished performer. The 3.0 TDI diesel is an impressive engine and, with 230bhp and 450Nm of torque, performance is brisk.

Refinement is also top class, and the Allroad makes a great long-distance cruiser. The standard height-adjustable air-suspension has five modes, and does a fine job in soaking up bumps on the road surface. Predictably, the 'comfort' setting provides the most cosseting ride, while 'dynamic' mode sharpens up the handling, reducing body roll in bends.

Off tarmac, despite the absence of a low-range gearbox option, your own enthusiasm and the machine's ground clearance are the biggest barriers. The permanent quattro four-wheel drive ensures great traction, while there's an automatic self-locking centre differential for when the going gets tough.