Audi's 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission reportedly matches the car's engine well, with peak torque arriving at a low 2,700 rpm - an almost turbo-like number. With the extra power, the allroad shaves 0.2 seconds off of its acceleration time to 100 km/h, for a total of 7.2 seconds. All round it is a less frantic, calmer process than the 2.7T version that used to be top dog in the allroad range.
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| The allroad offers decent ground clearance for light duty expeditions due to its 4-level pneumatic suspension. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
While serious off-roading capabilities are pushed aside by the fear of scratching the paint and panels on the allroad's flush doors, and the lack of a low range gear ratio, it still offers decent ground clearance for light duty expeditions due to its 4-level pneumatic suspension, a system that varies ground clearance by as much as 66 mm (2.6 in), with four distinct ride heights ranging from 142 mm (5.6 in) to 201 mm (8.2 in).
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| The interior of the 4.2 is unchanged from all other models of the range, but that isn't a bad thing. (Photo: Volkswagen AG) |
The interior of the new allroad 4.2 quattro has been carried over unchanged from all the other models of the range, which is no bad thing. Standard fare is generous, granting those so privileged leather seating surfaces, wood and aluminum trim, combined with superb build quality.
Audi has the remarkable ability of transforming full-size luxury cars into agile, easy to drive sports sedans and wagons, with the allroad 4.2 reportedly following suit. The air suspension, that offers such flexible off-road capabilities, is said to bring new life to the way the car rides and handles. The tuned system is said to feel less choppy over uneven pavement, raising the level on the al dente ride - one that is not only firm, but supple. Let the computer take care of itself, and the car will raise and lower according to speed. But take things into your own hands and at the press of a button those previously mentioned four ride-height settings are at your command.