2013 Audi allroad

GOOGLE EARTH
Arguably the finest navigation system you can buy, Audi connect features a dedicated Internet connection ($25-$30/month through T-Mobile) that enables detailed Google maps with Street View of your destination, the ability to send a destination from your computer to your car, the ability to connect eight Wi-Fi devices at once, and Google Voice Local Search, which makes it easier to enter a destination via voice.

BANG & OLUFSEN AUDIO
In the top-dog Audi A8, a B&O audio system will set you back $6,300. In the Allroad, it's only $850. No, it's not as powerful or robust and it doesn't have the tweeters that rise magically from the dash, but it's a nice system nonetheless.

The 2013 Audi Allroad is actually 3.5 inches longer than the Audi Q5 crossover, which helps it deliver similar cargo volume at 27 (Allroad) vs. 29 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded down, the difference grows to 50 vs. 57 cubic feet. The Allroad does, however, give up a couple inches in rear legroom to the Q5, which is something to consider if you're weighing the two cars and regularly transport full-grown humans in back. Moving forward to the pilot and co-pilot positions, the Audi Allroad offers the same magic mix of materials, quality and design that keep Audi interiors at the top of the rankings.

Like Samson drew power from his long locks, the 2013 Audi Allroad also derives much of its strength from an aesthetic source: contrasting, matte-finish wheel arches. Yeah, there's the raised ride height and stainless steel skidplates, but the arches are the Allroad's black turtleneck. Of course, Audi will gladly paint the whole car one color – but only if you give them another $1,000 (and only on silver, black and white models). In addition to the evolved front-end design bequeathed to the whole A4/A5 lineup for 2013, the Allroad gets standout grille styling defined by shiny vertical elements.

Other than unremarkable fuel economy, we like everything about the Allroad's familiar powertrain. The renowned 2.0T engine is matched with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic routing power to all four wheels via Quattro all-wheel drive. Audi says the 3,900-pound Allroad will scoot to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is quicker than we might have guessed based on our initial drives. On one hand, those drives took place at altitude, where thinner air can affect power output. On the other hand, turbocharged engines take less of a hit at altitude. Curiously and disappointingly, the Allroad's rated fuel economy is the same as the heavier (by 200 pounds) and taller (by seven inches) Audi Q5 crossover. Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
211 horsepower @ 4,300 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/27 mpg

The 2013 Audi Allroad's $40,495 starting price is actually $4,000 higher than the Audi Q5's and about $3,000 more than the 2012 Audi A4 Avant wagon's, but it does offer more standard equipment than either. If that's way out of your budget, a Subaru Outback is the obvious alternative. Resale value promises to be an Audi Allroad strong suit.

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