Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Race Recap: 2013 Griffin King of the Hammers, and notes from a dry lake bed [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/race-recap-2013-griffin-king-of-the-hammers-and-notes-from-a-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/race-recap-2013-griffin-king-of-the-hammers-and-notes-from-a-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/race-recap-2013-griffin-king-of-the-hammers-and-notes-from-a-d/#commentsFiled under: ,

King of the Hammers 2013 overhead view

It was a local guy from 90 miles away who beat them all...

The image above shows 129 Ultra4 racing rigs lined up for the start of the 2013 Griffin King of the Hammers. In case you missed Part One that explains why they're there and why they might be doing the most difficult and absurd one-day off-road race in the world, check it out. After a week of races in other events and two days of qualifying for the big show, the men and women who made it in were lined up to do three laps of a course around the 140,000-acre Johnson Valley OHV area in California's San Bernardino County.

Lap one was 52 miles through the desert, lap two was 63-miles long and lap three was 69-miles long, those last circuits going through some of the toughest rock trails - known collectively as The Hammers - on the planet. Drivers from 12 countries, trophy truck champions who've come from Paris-Dakar and the Baja 1000, guys who had spent big-money sums like $250,000 on their rigs were lined up to win, or just try and make it back before the 14-hour cutoff time.

It was a local guy from 90 miles away who beat them all...

Continue reading Race Recap: 2013 Griffin King of the Hammers, and notes from a dry lake bed [w/video]

Race Recap: 2013 Griffin King of the Hammers, and notes from a dry lake bed [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allroadaudifeaturedgriffin king of the hammersjohnson valley ohvking of hammersking of the hammersrandy slawsonrecapMon, 11 Feb 2013 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20455633/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/race-recap-2013-griffin-king-of-the-hammers-and-notes-from-a-d/20455633/article-detail.xml 20455633 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kom1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kom1.jpg <![CDATA[Cub trapped in garage rescued by mama bear]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/cub-trapped-in-garage-rescued-by-mama-bear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/cub-trapped-in-garage-rescued-by-mama-bear/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/cub-trapped-in-garage-rescued-by-mama-bear/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Bear cub dangles from door tracks in garage

Your garage should be a sacred place, somewhere that your precious car can hide away from the outside world and its ever-looming threats of bird poop, road salt and bears. Yes, bears should generally not be allowed into your garage, but this homeowner from Lake Tahoe, California apparently didn't get the memo.

The video below shows a bear cub, let's call him Baby Bear, playing gymnastics on the track of this homeowner's garage door. The bear's mother, let's call her Mama Bear, hears the cries of her child and uses her prodigious bear power to lift the garage door and coax Baby Bear back to the freedom of the wild. Baby Bear, clearly aware he's destined for internet meme immortality, leaves with a flourish as he dismounts the garage door's track down a ladder that he balances perfectly upright. Somebody get this bear an agent.

Through all of this, the homeowner keeps the camera rolling, possibly for the purpose of posterity - after all, who would believe this story without proof - but more likely for reasons having to do with insurance. Fortunately, the Audi Allroad whose sacred space was soiled by these bears appears to have escaped the incident unharmed by both Mama and Baby.

Continue reading Cub trapped in garage rescued by mama bear

Cub trapped in garage rescued by mama bear originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allroadaudibearbear garagecubgaragemama bearrescuevideoTue, 26 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20266427/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/26/cub-trapped-in-garage-rescued-by-mama-bear/20266427/article-detail.xml 20266427 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cub-garage-bear-rescue_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/cub-garage-bear-rescue.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi Allroad configurator powers up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/2013-audi-allroad-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/2013-audi-allroad-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/22/2013-audi-allroad-configurator-powers-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi Allroad configurator

Heads up, Audi Allroad fans. The 2013 online configurator for the all-wheel-drive wagon is up and running for your daydreaming fun.

To maximize our pretend-time pleasure, we fantasized being much wealthier than we actually are and went all out, starting with the Prestige-level Allroad. Base price for the Premium level is $39,600. Stepping up to Premium Plus takes it to $42,900 and top-of-the-line Prestige zooms to $48,800. Each strata, we assume, adds more standard features. But, apparently, the build-your-own Allroad site isn't quite finished and doesn't detail the differences. It also warns the images shown are European spec and refers to the wagon's engine as being powered by, "petrol."

First thing we chose was the new Moonlight Blue Metallic paint. That added $475. If you aren't big fans of those black fenders on our blue car, you can go with the "full paint finish" package for $1,000. The configurator showed another bug by insisting we had to add an exterior appearance package with contrasting body cladding and stainless steel underbody protection, but wouldn't allow us to.

No matter, we forged ahead with the $3,250 Driver Assist Package, which sounds like pure sorcery with adjustable steering effort, throttle response and shift style as well as adaptive cruise control.

The Chestnut Brown leather looks pretty nice by itself, but we went ahead and added the $850 layered oak anyway. Rear side airbags ($350) are a must as are rear sun shades ($250), bringing our Allroad to a whopping $56,170. Add another $1,000 for the full paint finish, and don't forget $895 for destination.

2013 Audi Allroad configurator powers up originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi allroad2014 audi allroadallroadallroad configuratoraudiaudi allroadFri, 22 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20261696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/22/2013-audi-allroad-configurator-powers-up/20261696/article-detail.xml 20261696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/audi-allroad-config_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/audi-allroad-config.jpg <![CDATA[Škoda Superb Combi Outdoor is Czech for "Allroad"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-is-czech-for-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-is-czech-for-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-is-czech-for-allroad/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Škoda Superb Combi has picked up on the "Allroad" habit of its flashier brother, Audi. As is to be expected, though, in Škoda guise, the design-package makeover as applied to the Superb Combi Outdoor isn't quite so flashy. The ride height and suspension are unchanged, and there are no steel undertrays installed fore and aft. But there is "robust synthetic paneling" that runs all around the lower rim of the car, as well as a revised font bumper with fog lamps and a larger lower intake.

This is said to enable the Combi Outdoor to "hold its own even beyond paved roads," but we'd take that with a few grains of whatever the Czech word for "salt" is. It is available now with any engine and drive layout in the range other than the GreenLine. Scroll down for a brief press release, and check out its angles in our gallery.

Continue reading Škoda Superb Combi Outdoor is Czech for "Allroad"

Škoda Superb Combi Outdoor is Czech for "Allroad" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allroadŠkodaŠkoda Autoskodaskoda superbskoda superb combiskoda superb combi outdoorsuperbsuperb combisuperb combi outdoorwagonTue, 05 Jun 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251532/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-is-czech-for-allroad/20251532/article-detail.xml 20251532 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2012-skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/2012-skoda-superb-combi-outdoor-lead.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro biturbo diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/11/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/11/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/11/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Don't Get Too Attached To This Larger Allroad

2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro

As an American living in Italy, there are often entire month-long stretches where I drive nothing but European cars that will sadly never come out to play on American soil. Such is the case for the abundantly adored Audi A6 Allroad Quattro seen here. I was initially of the assumption that since the A4 Allroad had already been confirmed for the U.S. that the A6 Allroad would be coming as well, but I am dismayed to report otherwise.

Such a pity, too. The business case for giving North America the whole range of Audi models that Germany offers apparently just doesn't pan out financially - and for some of us, it's the old predictable story of unrequited love across the chilly Atlantic.

Team Ingolstadt brought me into their home in Neckarsulm just north of hilly Stuttgart for this drive through the area's precisely cultivated fields of hops. The aroma of beer is everywhere here, which may go some way toward explaining just why the new A6 Allroad felt so good under and around me as we freight-trained along the Swabian two-lanes.

Continue reading 2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro biturbo diesel

2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro biturbo diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a6 allroad2012 audi a6 allroad quattroa6a6 allroadallroadallroad quattroaudiaudi allroadfeaturedquattroquick spinquickspinWed, 11 Apr 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20212740/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/11/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-quick-spin-review/20212740/article-detail.xml 20212740 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-audi-a6-allroad-quattro-fd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi A6 Allroad evolves the formula]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Audi A6 Allroad

Following in the footsteps of the U.S.-bound A4 Allroad, Audi has unveiled its bigger, stouter brother here at the Geneva Motor Show.

The 2013 Audi A6 Allroad takes the same proven formula of past rough-and-tumble models and applies it to the Avant version of the latest A6, raising the ride height by around 2.5 inches, slapping some plastic cladding around the wheel arches and fascias, flaring the fenders, tucking a few stainless steel trays to the underbody and topping it all off with a pair off roof rails.

Three diesel powerplants will be available ranging from 204 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque to 313 hp and 479 lb-ft of twist. The lone gasoline engine - the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 from the S4 - puts out 310 hp and some 324 lb-ft though a seven-speed dual-clutch 'box to all four wheels.

However, unlike the A4 Allroad, we likely won't be seeing the A6 in the U.S., so only one beefed up Audi wagon will have to suffice.

2013 Audi A6 Allroad evolves the formula originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a6 allroada6allroadaudiaudi a6 allroadgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 07 Mar 2012 03:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/20186659/article-detail.xml 20186659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Audi releases new A6 Allroad... with no word on U.S. availability]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/audi-releases-new-a6-allroad-with-no-word-on-u-s-availabilit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/audi-releases-new-a6-allroad-with-no-word-on-u-s-availabilit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/audi-releases-new-a6-allroad-with-no-word-on-u-s-availabilit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Audi A6 Allroad Quattro

Good things, they say, come in threes. If that's the case, for fans of rugged-looking Audi wagons, this must be a good week indeed. Not only did Audi unveil the Q3 Vail concept in Detroit (while confirming the arrival of the production Q3 in the US market), but the new A4 Allroad also made its debut at the show. And now the German automaker has released the new A6 Allroad Quattro.

Like the two versions that proceeded it, the latest Allroad takes the A6 Avant wagon (which was just updated for this model year) and adds an extra dose of off-road attitude. That's taken care of by a six-centimeter (2.36 in) increase in ride height, contrasting lower bodywork, stainless steel underbody plating, flared fenders and roof rails.

Four engine options deliver their power to all four wheels, each displacing three liters and packing turbochargers and direct injection. The sole gasoline engine offers up 310 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque, while the three diesel versions range from 204 hp and 332 lb-ft up to 313 hp and 479 lb-ft.

We've yet to receive any word on potential US availability, but the fact that Audi chose to release this model the day after we'd all gone home from the Detroit show does not bode well. Looks like we'll just have to suffice with the details in the press release after the jump and the huge gallery of high-resolution images instead.

Continue reading Audi releases new A6 Allroad... with no word on U.S. availability

Audi releases new A6 Allroad... with no word on U.S. availability originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a6 allroad quattroa6a6 allroadallroadaudiaudi a6audi a6 allroadaudi a6 allroad quattroWed, 11 Jan 2012 16:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146296/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/audi-releases-new-a6-allroad-with-no-word-on-u-s-availabilit/20146296/article-detail.xml 20146296 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webaudi-a6-allroad46_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webaudi-a6-allroad46.jpg <![CDATA[Audi heralds the return of the A4 Allroad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-a4-allroad-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-a4-allroad-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/audi-a4-allroad-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi A4 Allroad

Audi has been known for all-wheel drive and wagon rooflines for a lot longer than it has been making crossovers. Before cranking out the Q7, Q5 and Q3, the German automaker was making Avant Quattro wagons that carved up alpine mountain passes like nobody's business. And then came the Allroad.

Bridging the gap between a wagon and an SUV, the Allroad versions of the A4 and A6 take a similar approach to the Subaru Outback and Volvo XC70, giving the wagon a rougher, go-anywhere image compared to the standard Avant estate. We used to get the Allroad in the North American market, but after a brief hiatus, the A4 Allroad is back.

We got a chance to drive the soft-roader just last month, but couldn't resist the temptation to snap it again for the Ingolstadt aficionados among us as it made its official North American debut alongside the new A4 and S4 here at the Detroit Auto Show. Click the thumbnails above to check it out in high resolution.

Audi heralds the return of the A4 Allroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto showa4a4 allroadallroadaudiaudi a4audi a4 allroadaudi a4 allroad quattrodetroitdetroit auto shownaiasnorth american international auto showTue, 10 Jan 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/audi-a4-allroad-detroit-2012/20144233/article-detail.xml 20144233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a4-allroaddetroit201202-1326214402_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/audi-a4-allroaddetroit201202-1326214402.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi A4 Allroad Quattro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi Gives Us Its Warrior Wagon For The Holidays



Despite recent sad decisions by Ingolstadt and the company's regional bosses in Herndon, Virginia not to include either the stunning new A6 Avant or the handsomely reworked A4 Avant in its U.S. lineup, Audi has crunched the numbers on another niche's business case and decided to throw us one hell of a bone. Arriving on our shores by July 2012 for the first time is this spanking refreshed A4 Allroad Quattro. As consolation presents go, it's a humdinger.

We've just had a shot at driving this latest A4 Allroad - a model originally created in early 2009 - in various European trims along the Portuguese shore north of Lisbon and over the mountain roads just inland of the same. We can say right off that the discreet slice of American premium car buyers who understand the Allroad legend have much to look forward to. They make up a sympathetic (though generally separate) fan club from those who buy the Subaru Outback. Allroads are for well-to-do drivers who share a passion for this rough-roading, do-it-all niche, and they won't be palmed off with traditional SUVs or their more upright crossover substitutes.

To inaugurate the second coming of the Allroad franchise to the States, Audi is holding the A4 Allroad's world premiere at January's Detroit Auto Show. Through thick and thin, Audi has always treated Motown's motor expo very seriously. Showing such a fondly admired model like the Allroad here first means a lot. There has been a lingering sense of unwilling withdrawal ever since Audi creased importing the A6-based Allroad back in 2005, and confirmation of this new model figures to be a homecoming of sorts.

Continue reading 2012 Audi A4 Allroad Quattro

2012 Audi A4 Allroad Quattro originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 audi a4 allroada4a4 allroadallroadaudifeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivequattroWed, 14 Dec 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127421/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-first-drive-review/20127421/article-detail.xml 20127421 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-2012-audi-a4-allroad-quattro-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi A4, S4 and A4 Allroad Quattro fully revealed [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-audi-a4-s4-a4-allroad-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-audi-a4-s4-a4-allroad-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/26/2013-audi-a4-s4-a4-allroad-quattro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Audi A4 Allroad

The Audi A4 has been the German automaker's best-selling model for 39 years running with over 10 million individual examples sold, so any sort of major update to the machine is a big deal in Ingolstadt. For the 2013 model year, Audi has bestowed its A4 with revised sheetmetal and powertrains in order to keep it at the forefront of the entry-level luxury car arena... which is especially important with a new BMW 3 Series on its way.

2013 Audi A4 sedanA quick glance may not be enough to take in all the visual changes to the latest A4, but a closer look reveals that there are revisions to nearly every surface, including the front fascia, bumpers and hood. The headlights and taillights have been reworked to more closely match the rest of the lineup with a "slight wave" at the bottom and highly stylized LED elements. Inside the cabin, new steering wheels, refined finishes and a somewhat simplified MMI infotainment system.

European buyers will be able to select from six turbodiesel and four gasoline engines, all with forced induction and direct injection for maximized power and efficiency. In the States, we're expecting at least the 2.0-liter turbocharged four (211 horsepower) and 3.0-liter supercharged six with up to 333 horsepower in high-performance S4 trim. That's enough ponies to hit 60 miles per hour in about 5.0 seconds.

There's a slim chance the U.S. could get a crack at the new 1.8-liter turbo four as well, but we're not holding our breath. As you would expect, Quattro all-wheel drive will be available across the line, and power will reach the wheels through either a six-speed manual, CVT automatic (front-wheel drive only), eight-speed auto or seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Audi is also introducing a new electromechanical power steering system for the 2013 A4.

We're expecting Audi to bring the A4 and S4 to the U.S. in the summer of 2012 as 2013 models, and we should also get the new A4 Allroad wagon as well. You can see a whole slew of images in our high-res galleries, and we've embedded videos highlighting the new A4 Allroad and S4 after the break (along with the press release, naturally) for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading 2013 Audi A4, S4 and A4 Allroad Quattro fully revealed [w/video]

2013 Audi A4, S4 and A4 Allroad Quattro fully revealed [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a42013 audi a4 allroad quattro2013 audi s4a4a4 allroadallroadaudis4Wed, 26 Oct 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20091470/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/26/2013-audi-a4-s4-a4-allroad-quattro/20091470/article-detail.xml 20091470 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-audi-a4-allroad-quattro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2013-audi-a4-allroad-quattro.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A4 Allroad gets freshy-fresh]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-a4-allroad-gets-freshy-fresh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-a4-allroad-gets-freshy-fresh/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/18/audi-a4-allroad-gets-freshy-fresh/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Audi A4 Allroad spy shots

Audi is progressing with development of the its A4 Allroad facelift. Our spy photographers caught the model out and about during hot weather testing in southern Europe, which means the final production version is closer than ever before. It's still unclear as to whether or not the long-roof A4 will find its way Stateside due to the fact that the German automaker has placed most of its chips on its CUV range. The A4 Allroad is built to handle all sorts of unpleasant road conditions thanks to its tall wheel arches, slightly higher ride height and stout all-wheel-drive system.

We're guessing this machine would have no problem besting most crossovers when the dirt trail turns to rock and mud. While some photos have surfaced showing the A4 Allroad with U.S.-spec amber marker lights, the tester in this series of shots is clearly a European model.

Audi A4 Allroad gets freshy-fresh originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4allroadaudiaudi a4audi a4 allroadaudi a4 allroad spy shotsspy shotsTue, 18 Oct 2011 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20084472/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/18/audi-a4-allroad-gets-freshy-fresh/20084472/article-detail.xml 20084472 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-audi-a4-allroad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-audi-a4-allroad-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi A6-based Allroad spotted... will we get this one?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/2013-audi-a6-based-allroad-spotted-will-we-get-this-one/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/2013-audi-a6-based-allroad-spotted-will-we-get-this-one/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/2013-audi-a6-based-allroad-spotted-will-we-get-this-one/#commentsFiled under: , ,

spy shots audi allroad

The return of the Audi Allroad is nigh... possibly! Rumors have been swirling like camouflage that Audi is working on a new A4 Allroad. Our spy photographers spotted a camo-covered Allroad undergoing hot weather testing in Southern Europe, but the up-rated wagon underneath these swirls is an A6 Avant.

Is Audi getting ready to bring out a variety of Allroads? It's possible, and we'd happily welcome both an A4 and A6 Allroad with open arms. Of course, we know how this story plays out here in the States. While we may see one of the two Allroad variants, it's unlikely that both will wind up in U.S. dealer showrooms. Time will tell.

2013 Audi A6-based Allroad spotted... will we get this one? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a6 allroadallroadaudiaudi a6 allroadaudi a6 avantaudi allroadspy photosspy picsspy shotsTue, 20 Sep 2011 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20047492/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/20/2013-audi-a6-based-allroad-spotted-will-we-get-this-one/20047492/article-detail.xml 20047492 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-spy-shots-audi-allroad-1316534964_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/002-spy-shots-audi-allroad-1316534964.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen CrossPassat in the wings?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/volkswagen-crosspassat-in-the-wings/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/volkswagen-crosspassat-in-the-wings/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/14/volkswagen-crosspassat-in-the-wings/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen Passat Crossover renderingWhen Volkswagen launched its 2012 Passat, we were a little disappointed to hear that American buyers probably won't be able to dive into a wagon version and that the company's 4Motion all-wheel drive system wasn't slated for the option sheet either. Volkswagen's engineers said that the platform simply wasn't suited to putting power to all four wheels, despite the fact that the body tray clearly has a center tunnel to accommodate a driveshaft. Now Autobild is reporting that the German manufacturer may be considering the creation of a Passat-based crossover that would offer all of the storage and go-anywhere goodness of a Passat Wagon 4Motion.

According to a poorly translated report, the vehicle will boast a taller ride height and plenty of plastic body cladding to protect it from the slings and arrows of errant rocks and sticks. All-wheel drive will be an option as well, though there are no solid details on what to expect from the engine or transmission departments.

Do we like the idea of jacking up the Passat to make it fit into the crossover crowd? Some of us do, some of us don't. Either way, we're guessing that the vehicle would be little more than a spring-and-damper swap away from riding as low as its four-door counterpart. Still, all of that plastic body cladding doesn't seem to fit with the typically clean design language, but we'll take a Passat wagon of any sort, even if it's been given the Allroad treatment. It'll take some time to find out whether there's any meat to these rumors, of course, and it'll likely take more time still to figure out if the rumored model might see North American dealers. In the meantime, head over to Autobild to see a full rendering of the vehicle.

Volkswagen CrossPassat in the wings? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 passat crossover4motionallroadcrosspassatpassat crossoverpassat crossover 4motionpassat wagonvolkswagenvolkswagen passt crossoverThu, 14 Jul 2011 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19991157/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/14/volkswagen-crosspassat-in-the-wings/19991157/article-detail.xml 19991157 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/passat-crossover-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/passat-crossover-250.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Audi considering A1 Allroad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/rumormill-audi-considering-a1-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/rumormill-audi-considering-a1-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/30/rumormill-audi-considering-a1-allroad/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2007 Audi Cross Coupé concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Apparently not content to let Mini hog the small premium crossover segment with its new Countryman, Audi is reportedly working on an Allroad version of the A1.

The A1 three-door hatchback goes on sale this year with a five-door coming in 2011. A higher-riding crossover variant could come by 2013 and follow in the path of previous Audi Allroad editions with arch extensions, bigger wheel and tires and possibly even all-wheel drive. A quattro variant hasn't yet been confirmed, although Volkswagen is reportedly working on an all-wheel drive variant of the Volkswagen CrossPolo which shares its platform with the little Audi. Given Audi's 30-year commitment to quattro, we'd bet on both variants for the A1 Allroad - but of course, we were surprised when the A1 hatch arrived with only its front wheels driven...


Gallery: Audi Cross Coupe Quattro


[Source: AutoZietung (translated)]

Rumormill: Audi considering A1 Allroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 audi2013 audi a1 allroad2013Audi2013AudiA1Allroada1a1 allroadA1AllroadallroadAudiaudi 1 allroadaudi a1 e-tron conceptAudi1AllroadAudiA1E-tronConceptRumorMillrumorssoftroaderWed, 30 Jun 2010 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19535461/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/30/rumormill-audi-considering-a1-allroad/19535461/article-detail.xml 19535461 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/crosscoupequathi002_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/crosscoupequathi002.jpg <![CDATA[New York: 2010 Subaru Outback has its muklucks on]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2010-subaru-outback-has-its-muklucks-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2010-subaru-outback-has-its-muklucks-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/new-york-2010-subaru-outback-has-its-muklucks-on/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Subaru Outback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, Subaru unveiled its new Legacy sedan, a vehicle that is pivotal not just in its own right, but because it also forms the basis for the softroader stiltswagon seen here. It only makes sense that Subaru chose to unveil its new Outback here this morning, as the very first model debuted here in the Big Apple some 15 years ago.

Predictably, the all-wheel drive Outback's running gear remains pure Legacy, and as such, it has grown similarly. Interior volume is up eight percent thanks in part to a 2.8-inch longer wheelbase (which also adds nearly four inches of rear legroom) and a two-inch wider footprint. Despite these gains, Subie officials claim the 2010 model is actually shorter overall. It also rides a bit higher, with ground clearnce swelling to 8.7 inches. Not only is this growth part of a strategy to combat upsized family sedans from Toyota, Honda, Chevrolet and Mazda, the move also allows the Outback to distance itself from popular Forester that also got biggie-sized with its last redesign.

The new model will be available in the buyer's choice of a 2.5-liter, normally aspirated flat-four giving 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque (backed by one of two new transmissions: a six-speed manual or Subie's "Lineartronic" CVT) or a 3.6-liter flat-six (256 hp and 247 pound-feet) paired to a conventional five-speed automatic. Regardless of which engine is specified, the fuel tank grows to 18.5 gallons (from 16.9), and regular fuel is all that's required.

Follow the jump for more, including Subaru's official press release, and check out the new Outback in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: New York: 2010 Subaru Outback


Gallery: 2010 Subaru Outback

Continue reading New York: 2010 Subaru Outback has its muklucks on

New York: 2010 Subaru Outback has its muklucks on originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Allroadboxer engineBoxerEngineLegacyNew YorkNew York 2009new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShowNYAutoShowNYIASOutbackstation wagonStationWagonSubaruSubieThu, 09 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1512639/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/09/new-york-2010-subaru-outback-has-its-muklucks-on/1512639/article-detail.xml 1512639 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/001_nyc_outback_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/001_nyc_outback.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2009: New Audi A4 Allroad debuts, reportedly may come to U.S. after all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-new-audi-a4-allroad-debuts-reportedly-may-come-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-new-audi-a4-allroad-debuts-reportedly-may-come-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-new-audi-a4-allroad-debuts-reportedly-may-come-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Audi A4 Allroad

Audi has rolled out its new 2010 Audi A4 Allroad here at the Geneva Motor Show, and while the turbocharged stiltswagon wasn't originally expected to reach U.S. dealerships, word coming out of the show from Automotive News is that this is under discussion. As you may recall, Audi's very first Allroad, the A6-based softroader, was sold from 2000 to 2005 in the U.S, but the second-generation range (currently on sale in Europe) never made it to America because of the initial model's slow sales.

The flared-fender A4 Allroad goes on sale in Europe as you read this (base price: 37,100 Euros - about $46,700 USD), carrying under its hood a 211-horsepower, 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder or one of two TDI diesels - either a 2.0-liter (170 hp) or a 3.0-liter (240 hp). Presumably, if America gets the A4 Allroad at all, it will receive the gas engine variant only where it would match up as a premium-price alternative to the Subaru Outback and forthcoming Saab 9-3X. Of course, Audi may decide to once again import the A6-based Allroad instead - or pass on both altogether, so stay tuned. High-res gallery of live shots below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2010 Audi A4 Allroad


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

Continue reading Geneva 2009: New Audi A4 Allroad debuts, reportedly may come to U.S. after all

Geneva 2009: New Audi A4 Allroad debuts, reportedly may come to U.S. after all originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A4a4 allroadA4AllroadA6All RoadAllroadaud a4 allroadAudA4AllroadAudibreakingcrossoverCUVgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowSoftroaderturbowagonWed, 04 Mar 2009 13:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1478602/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-new-audi-a4-allroad-debuts-reportedly-may-come-to/1478602/article-detail.xml 1478602 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/audi-a4-allroad-live-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/audi-a4-allroad-live-580.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Saab 9-3X spotted up close]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/spy-shots-saab-9-3x-spotted-up-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/spy-shots-saab-9-3x-spotted-up-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/05/spy-shots-saab-9-3x-spotted-up-close/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Saab allroad 9-3X is a SportCombi on stilts wearing a few new clothes. In addition to more generous clearance afforded by the vertically enhanced suspension, the Volvo XC70-fighter will don plenty of cladding, whopping pipes out back, and it will utilize the services of a Haldex all-wheel-drive system to conquer inclement conditions.

Unless Saab decides to create an Aero edition that will use the 2.8-liter V6, the 210 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter might be the only engine on offer in the U.S. initially. No price has been mentioned, either, but with the 9-3 SportCombi XWD running $38,585, that's probably a good place to start working your way up. We'll see the car at next month's Geneva Motor Show, and it is expected on sale later this year.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Spy Shots: Saab 9-3X spotted up close originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Feb 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-39-3Xallroadcrossovercuvestategeneva motor showGenevaMotorShowoutbacksaabsaab 9-3XSaab9-3xspy shotsSpyShotswagonThu, 05 Feb 2009 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1450761/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/02/05/spy-shots-saab-9-3x-spotted-up-close/1450761/article-detail.xml 1450761 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/saab_9-3x_4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/saab_9-3x_4.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A4 Allroad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/spy-shots-a4-based-audi-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/spy-shots-a4-based-audi-allroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/spy-shots-a4-based-audi-allroad/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A lot of American consumers were disappointed when the Audi Allroad was sent to the guillotine in 2005. Based on the A6 Avant, the Allroad's positioning as a more-than-a-wagon, less-than-an-SUV made it a versatile performer, but middling sales meant that U.S. consumers never got a crack at the second-generation model available overseas since 2006.

Judging by this newest prototype and a similar one spied back in February, it appears that the current Allroad will get an A4 Avant-based kid brother. Spy shots show a such a car testing in the kind of latitude that is home to the A4 Avant's primary competition, Volvo's XC70, not to mention the Saab 9-3X that's right around the corner. With everyone going back to the 'small ball' playbook for a while, maybe Audi has the timing right this time. The only question now is: will it come to the States?

Gallery: 2009 Audi A4 Allroad - spy shots


[Source: EVO]

Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A4 Allroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allroadaudiaudi allroadAudiAllroadspy shotsSpyShotsFri, 19 Dec 2008 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1405576/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/12/19/spy-shots-a4-based-audi-allroad/1405576/article-detail.xml 1405576 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/audi_a4a_ss_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/audi_a4a_ss.jpg <![CDATA[Enter the Rumormill: Audi A4 Allroad Quattro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/enter-the-rumormill-audi-a4-allroad-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/enter-the-rumormill-audi-a4-allroad-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/10/enter-the-rumormill-audi-a4-allroad-quattro/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Outback treatment of the new Impreza may not be a best seller, but if emerging reports are to be believed, Audi thinks it can do a better mini-me impression by applying the Allroad concept - its take on the Outback theme - to the smaller A4.

Currently the Audi Allroad is based on the mid-range A6 Avant Quattro wagon, with an off-road suspension and contrasting body-cladding. Like the Outback and the XC70 version of Volvo's V70 wagon, the Allroad offers sport-ute appeal and functionality with better driving dynamics and less weight to schlep around.

A beefed-up A4 Avant Quattro could provide an attractive alternative to the emerging field of compact SUVs like the BMW X3 and Acura RDX ,as well as upcoming models like the Mercedes GLK, Infiniti EX and even Audi's own Q5. Then again, maybe poaching its own sales wouldn't be that great an idea.

[Source: AutoBild via Motor Authority]

Enter the Rumormill: Audi A4 Allroad Quattro originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4allroadaudiavantquattroreportrumorspeculationwagonThu, 10 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1083616/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/01/10/enter-the-rumormill-audi-a4-allroad-quattro/1083616/article-detail.xml 1083616 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/01/a4-avant-snow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/01/a4-avant-snow.jpg <![CDATA[Paris Motor Show: ?koda Octavia Scout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/29/paris-motor-show-koda-octavia-scout/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/29/paris-motor-show-koda-octavia-scout/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/29/paris-motor-show-koda-octavia-scout/#commentsFiled under: , , ,




As our man Alex Nunez said when he covered the preview press release at the beginning of this month, the Škoda Octavia Scout is based on the Volkswagen Golf Mk. V. It's a new small wagon derivative from Škoda that sits 16mm higher than the regular Octavia Combi 4x4.

It features unpainted bumpers, fender flares and side skirts, and skidplates front and rear, to make it look like its corporate cousin, the Audi Allroad. Not a bad start and the finish ain't bad either. The tail is reminiscent of the Porsche Cayenne, with a similar rear glass angle and tail lamps that look like 3/4-scale versions of those on the Porsche. Beefy tires on 17" five-spoke wheels add just the right stance to give this thing street trail cred.

Engines are the 140-hp 2.0 TDI or a 150-horse 2.0 FSI gas option. The Octavia Scout uses Škoda's version of VW's 4Motion system to make it at least somewhat trail-worthy. It should reach Škoda showrooms early in 2007. Similar in some ways to the newly announced VW Tiguan, hopefully the U.S. will get a Scout-like option package as smart as this Škoda.


(Paris and press photos, press release after the jump)

[Source: Škoda]

Continue reading Paris Motor Show: ?koda Octavia Scout

Paris Motor Show: ?koda Octavia Scout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Sep 2006 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allroadaudioctaviascoutskodatiguanvwFri, 29 Sep 2006 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/676936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2006/09/29/paris-motor-show-koda-octavia-scout/676936/article-detail.xml 676936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/09/dsc07674_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2006/09/dsc07674.jpg -1 2