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About the Audi A6 Allroad
AI-generatedThe Audi A6 Allroad is a premium estate car that combines the practicality and load space of the standard A6 Avant with enhanced off-road capability through raised suspension, quattro all-wheel drive, and rugged styling cues. Positioned as Audi's answer to the Volvo V90 Cross Country and Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain, it offers a compelling blend of luxury, versatility, and go-anywhere capability without the bulk of a traditional SUV. Launched in its fourth generation in 2019, the A6 Allroad features air suspension as standard, providing adjustable ride height for improved ground clearance and wading depth. It's powered by efficient diesel and petrol engines with mild-hybrid technology, paired with smooth automatic transmissions. The interior showcases Audi's latest MMI infotainment with dual touchscreens, virtual cockpit, and high-quality materials throughout. With its sophisticated technology, refined driving experience, and practical everyday usability, the A6 Allroad appeals to buyers seeking a versatile premium estate that can handle adverse weather, light off-road duties, and towing with equal competence.
Known Issues
Known Issues
C8 (2019-present)
2019-2024
- MMI infotainment system occasional software glitches requiring updates
- Air suspension compressor failures, particularly on high-mileage examples
- Mild-hybrid system battery sensor errors triggering warning lights
- Touchscreen responsiveness issues in cold weather
- DPF regeneration issues on diesel models used primarily for short journeys
C7 (2012-2018)
2012-2018
- Oil consumption problems on 3.0 TDI engines, particularly pre-2015 models
- Dual-clutch gearbox (S tronic) mechatronic unit failures
- EGR valve carbon buildup on diesel engines causing poor running
- Air suspension leaks from airbags and valve blocks
- Timing chain tensioner wear on some petrol engines
- Injector seal failures on 3.0 BiTDI engines
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£2,400-£3,200
Insurance Group
42-48
Average Service
£550-£750
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£42,000 - £52,000
£32,000 - £42,000
£25,000 - £35,000
£12,000 - £18,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional interior quality with cutting-edge technology and premium materials
- Quattro all-wheel drive provides excellent traction in all weather conditions
- Spacious boot and practical estate layout with added ground clearance
- Refined and comfortable ride quality, especially with air suspension
- Strong towing capability up to 2,500kg when properly equipped
- Efficient mild-hybrid powertrains offer good real-world economy
Cons
- Expensive to buy compared to standard A6 Avant and conventional estates
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2020 - First full production year with all updates implemented, mild-hybrid technology refined, and early software bugs resolved whilst still offering strong value as a newer used option
- 2022 - Benefits from updated infotainment software, improved mild-hybrid system reliability, and factory improvements based on early customer feedback without the premium of brand-new models
Worst Years
- 2013 - C7 generation had early 3.0 TDI oil consumption issues and dual-clutch gearbox problems not yet fully addressed by factory updates
- 2019 - First year of new C8 generation suffered from software teething troubles with MMI system and mild-hybrid integration issues requiring multiple dealer visits
Buying Checklist
Engine5 items
- Check for excessive oil consumption on 3.0 TDI engines - look at service records for top-ups
- Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start (petrol models)
- Ensure no blue smoke from exhaust indicating turbo or injector issues
- Check for DPF warning lights and regeneration history on diesels
- Verify mild-hybrid system functioning without warning lights (2019+ models)
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
The Allroad name first appeared in 1999 on the A6-based Allroad Quattro, making it one of the pioneers of the raised estate crossover segment
The air suspension can raise the car by up to 45mm for off-road use and lower it by 15mm at motorway speeds for improved aerodynamics
Audi claims the A6 Allroad can wade through water up to 500mm deep, significantly more than the standard A6 Avant
The Allroad has a permanent quattro all-wheel drive system that can send up to 85% of power to the rear wheels when needed
Alternatives to Consider
Volvo V90 Cross Country
More reliable reputation, similar ground clearance and all-wheel drive capability, often better value retention and lower running costs
Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain
Direct premium rival with similar ethos, air suspension, and slightly more refined ride though often more expensive to purchase
BMW 5 Series Touring xDrive
More driver-focused alternative with excellent all-wheel drive, though lacks raised suspension and rugged styling of Allroad
Subaru Outback
More affordable option with proven reliability, standard all-wheel drive and genuine off-road ability, though less premium interior
Owner Tips
- 1Exercise all air suspension height settings regularly to prevent valve seizure and maintain system health
- 2Ensure diesel models get regular 30+ minute motorway runs to allow proper DPF regeneration
- 3Keep MMI infotainment software updated through Audi dealers to avoid glitches and improve functionality
- 4Check service history meticulously - missed services can void warranty on expensive components like gearbox and engine
- 5Use premium fuel as recommended; cheaper fuel can cause sensor issues and reduced performance
- 6Budget for premium tyres - all-season or winter tyres maximize the Allroad's all-weather capability
- 7Have air suspension inspected annually as preventative maintenance is cheaper than emergency repairs
- 8Consider extended warranty for models over 3 years old due to high repair costs on complex systems
Check a specific Audi A6 Allroad
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