Audi's popular A4 allroad wagon is powered by a turbocharged direct-injected 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. Audi claims the allroad will hit 60 mph in a quick 5.9 seconds while returning an EPA-estimated combined 27 mpg.

Underlying the A4 allroad's rugged premise is a revised quattro all-wheel-drive system, which uses a multi-plate clutch and decoupling rear differential to better distribute torque in any and all driving situations. Control is courtesy of a 5-link suspension that utilizes aluminum control arm components to reduce unsprung weight. Adaptive dampers are standard and allow for ultimate ride control on or off road. Audi drive select offers choice of driving modes, including comfort, auto, dynamic and offroad, all of which change the characteristics of throttle response, transmission shift points and the steering system.

The A4 allroad stands out from the rest of the A4 family with underbody protection, aluminum roof rails and distinctive body cladding, though a full-paint finish is optional. Interior cargo volume is ample, with more than 24 cubic-feet of space with the rear seats up and 58.5 cubic feet with them folded flat.

The A4 allroad is available in three distinct trims: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The Premium trim is nicely equipped, with Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights, along with LED taillights. Also fitted to the exterior are 18-inch alloy wheels with a contrasting gray finish, automatic wipers, heated mirrors and a panoramic sunroof. Inside a power liftgate, leather seating with 8-way power front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with cruise control, a 40/20/20 split-fold rear seat, and a 7-inch central display that integrates Audi's MMI infotainment system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, a rearview camera and smartphone integration for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all standard. A 10-speaker audio system with dual USB ports is also standard.

The Premium Plus trim adds to those features with keyless entry, auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, LED headlights and front and rear parking sensors. Interior goodies include heated front seats with driver memory and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system with satellite radio. Audi Connect Care provides essential telematics in the event of an emergency.

Finally, the A4 allroad Prestige adds noise-reducing acoustic glass fitted to the front side windows, along with a surround-view camera system and a head-up display for distraction-free driving.

Options abound across the allroad range. The Premium Plus can be equipped with the Technology Package, which adds a navigation system, a touchscreen for the infotainment system, enhanced Audi Connect with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi hotspot capability, and advanced safety features like rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitor and more. A Driver Assistance Package includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, while the Warm Weather Package comes with ventilated front seats and rear shades for the windows.