2019 Audi A4 allroad: A Sophisticated All-Weather Companion
The 2019 Audi A4 allroad stands as a compelling choice for those seeking a refined and capable vehicle that can handle diverse road conditions and light off-road adventures with a touch of luxury. Building on the foundation of the popular A4 sedan, the allroad variant introduces a raised suspension, standard quattro all-wheel drive, and rugged exterior styling to create a more versatile and adventurous package. This overview will delve into its key features, ownership expectations, and potential considerations to help you understand what the 2019 A4 allroad offers.
Highlights
The 2019 Audi A4 allroad distinguishes itself with a blend of performance, safety, and practicality.
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Engine and Performance: At the heart of the 2019 A4 allroad lies a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and rapid gear changes. Standard quattro all-wheel drive is a cornerstone of the allroad's capability, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions and on unpaved surfaces. The elevated ride height, approximately 1.5 inches higher than the standard A4 sedan, further enhances its go-anywhere versatility.
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Safety Features: Audi equips the 2019 A4 allroad with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and enhance driver awareness.
- Pre Sense® basic: This system can detect potential collision situations and initiate preventative measures, such as closing windows and pretensioning seatbelts, to prepare occupants for an impact.
- Pre Sense® city: A forward-collision warning system with automatic emergency braking, it helps mitigate or avoid frontal collisions by alerting the driver and applying the brakes if necessary.
- Parking system plus: This includes front and rear acoustic parking sensors, providing audible and visual cues to help navigate tight spaces and avoid obstacles.
- Optional driver assistance features: Buyers could opt for a more advanced package including adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist (maintaining a set distance from the vehicle ahead and assisting with steering in slow traffic), active lane assist (helping to keep the vehicle centered in its lane), and side assist (blind-spot monitoring).
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Trim Summary: The 2019 A4 allroad was offered in three distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous one with increasing levels of luxury and technology:
- Premium: This entry-level trim still boasts a wealth of features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 10.1-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Premium Plus: Stepping up to this trim adds features like a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system, virtual cockpit (a fully digital instrument cluster), keyless entry with hands-free trunk release, and LED headlights with dynamic turn signals.
- Prestige: The top-tier Prestige trim elevates the luxury quotient with a head-up display, ventilated front seats, navigation, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (if not already included on Premium Plus), and 19-inch alloy wheels.
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Other Notable Aspects: The allroad's interior mirrors the sophistication of the A4 sedan, offering a well-crafted cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly design. The cargo area is also more practical than the standard sedan due to the wagon-like body style, making it a good choice for those who frequently transport gear or luggage.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Audi A4 allroad typically offers a refined and comfortable driving experience, with a focus on technology and everyday usability.
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Ownership Experience: Owners generally appreciate the allroad's smooth ride, composed handling, and the confidence provided by the quattro all-wheel-drive system. The cabin is quiet and well-insulated, making it an excellent choice for long commutes or road trips. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, and the overall build quality instills a sense of premium durability.
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Maintenance: As a luxury vehicle, the A4 allroad's maintenance schedule should be followed diligently to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Expect routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. Audi recommends specific intervals for these services, which can be found in the owner's manual. While generally reliable, parts and labor for German luxury vehicles can be more expensive than for mainstream brands. It's advisable to find a qualified Audi specialist or dealership for servicing.
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Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2019 Audi A4 allroad will vary based on your location, driving history, chosen coverage levels, and the specific trim and optional features. Luxury vehicles with advanced technology and all-wheel drive can sometimes command higher insurance rates due to their higher repair costs and the inherent value of the vehicle. Obtaining quotes from multiple insurance providers is highly recommended.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Audi A4 allroad is a highly capable vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of.
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Fuel Economy: While not significantly worse than its sedan counterpart, the allroad's slightly higher ride height and all-wheel-drive system can result in marginally lower fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive vehicles in the same class. However, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is still reasonably efficient for its power output.
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Off-Road Capability: It's important to remember that the "allroad" designation signifies capability on light trails, gravel roads, and in inclement weather, not extreme off-roading. The ground clearance is increased, but it's not designed for serious rock crawling or traversing challenging terrain. For true off-road enthusiasts, a dedicated SUV or a more robust off-road-oriented vehicle would be a better fit.
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Transmission Behavior: While the S tronic dual-clutch transmission is generally smooth and quick, some drivers may notice a slight hesitation or jerkiness at very low speeds or during parking maneuvers, which can be characteristic of some dual-clutch transmissions.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Audi A4 allroad successfully blends the elegance and technology of the A4 sedan with the added versatility and capability of a lifted wagon. It offers a sophisticated driving experience, a well-appointed interior, and the assurance of standard quattro all-wheel drive for confident all-weather performance. For those who desire a premium all-season vehicle that can handle more than just paved roads without compromising on comfort or luxury, the 2019 Audi A4 allroad presents a compelling and well-rounded package.