What’s new: Audi has given the mock-4×4 look to the A4 Avant. Based on quattro SE trim, the A4 Allroad gets 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines, or the 3.0 TDI driven here.
Excellent: It subtly looks the part, with unique grille and bumpers and bespoke aluminium styling and beefed-up plastic-clad wheelarches. The £1330 step-up from standard Avant is also acceptable.
Good: Raising the Allroad by 37mm on the regular Avant hasn’t harmed the driving experience, and the standard Off-Road Detection system should be enough to get out of muddy fields. Fuel economy sits a shade under 40mpg, not bad for a 3.0-litre diesel auto.
Average: A?cost per mile of 70.5p highlights that this isn’t a cheap package.
Poor: The optional Audi Drive Select system is a waste of £980. It controls steering, gearbox and throttle response, but there isn’t a setting we could find that works well with the car.
Verdict: Attractive and competent enough off-road for most, but it’s quite an expensive package.
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