By David Finkelstein

For the 2017 model year Audi has introduced the A4 Allroad, a refined and worldly automobile. From the newly redesigned underside elaborate adaptive five-link suspension system to its all-new standard quattro all-wheel-drive with ultra technology, the 2017 Allroad sets a new elevated benchmark for the luxury automotive wagon segment.

The reworked suspension allows for excellent precision steering, improved handing and overall driving comfort. Furthermore, the car's exterior has been redesigned to spotlight Allroad’s adventurous spirit with design cues that reflect back to the A4 family in general.

Vertical chrome slats on the Single-frame grille emphasize the vehicle’s increased ground clearance while more pronounced wheel arches add to it's off-road distinctive design character.

The interior accentuates a horizontally oriented architecture to create a greater feeling of spaciousness. The prominent infotainment features include a large dash display and available Audi virtual cockpit which helps create a modern driver-centric space. All of this generates a level of technology that's hard to compete with industry wide.

The newly designed infotainment components include their standard Audi smartphone interface. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto integration.

The A4 Allroad also features a redesigned powerplant in the form of a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine and, for the first time, a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. This seven speed tranny helps to maintain fuel efficiency while setting the stage for a sports car type feel.



The four cylinder engine produces 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration figures indicate that Allroad will reach 60 mph in just under 6-seconds from a dead stop. EPA numbers show 23-mpg city/28-mpg highway while premium grade fuel is recommended.

The new quattro all-wheel drive system utilizes an electronic multi-plate clutch along with a decoupling rear axle differential. This system allows for intelligent, pro active control of the all-wheel-drive system to predictively modify the torque application as demands and/or road conditions require.

As with every vehicle, the car's footprint begins with the overall exterior design. For the 2017 model year, the A4 Allroad is engineered with a modern design element that clearly emulates the Audi branding DNA. A4 has bright xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights with exclusively designed unique turn signals. Optional are full LED headlights.

The exceptional paint finish has a remarkable luster to it plus the overall fit and finish of the body panels and seams are unparalleled. The front end has an “in your face” presence with smooth aerodynamic lines that transition to the car's side silhouette for an up scale look of high caliber refinement. The standard 18-inch five spoke wheels have an attractive contrasting finish, mounted within the cars pronounced fender openings.

Also included is a standard panoramic sunroof and raised aluminum roof rails. The new interior design includes greater attention to detail through functional refinements and additional driver-focused advancements. The uniquely designed acoustic windshield helps keep cabin-noise to exceptionally low levels. Improved interior space includes added shoulder and rear legroom with seating for up to five.



Also included are leather seating surfaces, three-zone automatic climate control, three spoke steering wheel with transmission shift paddles, 8-way power front seats with 4-way power lumbar support for the driver plus a split-folding rear seatback with a 40/20/40 configuration. The rear cargo area will easily accommodate most of your personal gear for outdoors activities.

Audi's virtual cockpit includes a full-color head's-up display projecting relevant driving information in the driver’s field of vision. Optional is a 19 speaker, 755 watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound Sound System. Audi connect packages include three variances to choose from. This includes the security and emergency services plus stolen vehicle recovery; navigation with Google Earth including other welcomed high tech telecommunications; and the prominent mobile built-in Wi-Fi “rolling” hotspot with the ability to connect as many as eight different handheld devices.

The 2017 Audi Allroad is offered in three trim levels to customers with excellent taste that relishes what they drive. The Premium version has a starting price of $44,000. Their middle grade Premium Plus model shows an MSRP of $47,000 and the flagship Prestige edition has pricing starting at $51,400.