Audi A4 Allroad

Allroad in brief

The A4 allroad quattro first appeared in 2009 (B8 generation), and the B9 generation version followed in 2016. It's not a separate model but an A4 Avant estate adapted for rougher roads: a slightly higher ride height, plastic wheel arch and underbody protection, different bumpers and grilles, and always – all-wheel drive.

Unlike the larger A6 allroad, the A4 allroad doesn't have air suspension – it uses standard coil springs, making maintenance simpler and cheaper. The interior, boot, and most of the equipment are the same as the A4 Avant, so the allroad is often chosen by those who need an estate but have to drive on rough roads or in winter.

B8 and B9 generations – what's the difference

The B8 generation A4 allroad (2009–2016) features permanent quattro all-wheel drive with a central differential. In 2012, the car was updated: headlights, interior details, and engines were changed. Today, this is the cheapest way to get an allroad, but most cars already have high mileage.

The B9-generation A4 allroad (from 2016) is lighter, quieter, and more modern, often featuring a virtual instrument cluster and more driver-assistance systems. Most four-cylinder versions come with quattro using ultra technology: front wheels are usually driven, with the rears kicking in automatically when needed. V6 diesels retain permanent quattro drive.

The 2019 facelifted B9 gained a new look, a touchscreen infotainment display replacing the rotary controller, and new engine names (e.g., 40 TDI, 45 TFSI). The Allroad version often includes the Audi drive select 'offroad' mode, helping to tackle rough terrain and steep inclines.

Engines and transmissions

In the B8, the most common engines are the 2.0 TDI diesels (usually around 170–190 hp) and the 3.0 TDI V6 (around 240–245 hp), with the petrol 2.0 TFSI (around 211–225 hp) being less frequent. The 2.0 TDI often pairs with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while more powerful engines usually come with a 7-speed S tronic.

In the B9, pre-facelift engines include the 2.0 TDI (around 150–190 hp), 3.0 TDI V6 (around 218–272 hp), and 2.0 TFSI (around 252 hp). Post-2019, these are replaced by the 40 TDI (around 190–204 hp), 45 and 50 TDI with V6 (around 231 and 286 hp), and 45 TFSI (around 245–265 hp). Newer engines feature a mild-hybrid system, and diesels use AdBlue fluid.

In the B9, four-cylinder engines typically pair with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox, while the V6 TDI comes with an 8-speed tiptronic automatic.

What to check when buying a used A4 allroad

What's current for the A4 Avant and allroad: early B8 generation 2.0 TFSI engines were notorious for increased oil consumption, the 3.0 TDI V6 timing chain is at the back of the engine, and the S tronic gearbox should shift smoothly, without judders or hesitation. Check diesel cars for the particulate filter (DPF), EGR valve, and AdBlue system.

The allroad's USP is its suspension and underbody. If the car has seen plenty of off-road action, check the underbody guards, suspension mounts, and shock absorbers for signs of impact. quattro four-wheel drive means all tyres should be the same size and similarly worn; ask about gearbox and differential oil changes.

Plastic wheel arches and sill guards hide minor scratches well, but mud can accumulate underneath — check for corrosion. Many allroads are imported, so verify the service history and MOT records.

Versions by engine

The A4 allroad is often sold as a standalone version with additional equipment packs, so we list the most common versions by engine; equipment varies by market and year.

Comparing B9 generation versions

For most buyers, the 40 TDI is the best choice — it's economical and powerful enough. The 50 TDI is worth considering if you do a lot of motorway driving or tow a trailer, while the 45 TFSI is ideal if you don't cover many miles per year.

Frequently asked questions