Concept Allroad Audi Quattro SUV Debuts at Detroit Auto Show

AUDI PRESS RELEASE
Brains and brawn have combined to formidable effect in a spectacular new Audi SUV design study set to debut at the North American Auto Show in Detroit (Jan 15-23). Bearing the familiar Audi allroad quattro name, but this time based on the all-new Audi A6 Avant, the new concept car features the latest Audi adaptive air suspension for impeccable all-terrain credentials, a potent new Piezo-injected V8 TDI engine and numerous technological advances.

For the new allroad Audi quattro concept, the elegant lines of the new A6 Avant body shell have been given a harder edge by striking new bumpers, flared wheel arches, visible ribbed stainless steel under-body protection and a special treatment for the now familiar Audi single frame grill. Imposing 19-inch alloy wheels and piercing LED front and rear lights also add to the visual appeal.

The allroad quattro concept can produce huge reserves of torque from a new 4.0-litre V8 TDI engine boosted by two turbo chargers and incorporating common rail fuel injection with state-of-the-art Piezo injectors. Notable not only as the lightest eight-cylinder diesel engine in the world, but also the first to comply with EU4 emissions regulations through the use of a particulate filter, this new powerhouse is good for 286PS and an incredible 650Nm of torque. As a result, the allroad quattro concept can go from 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds, dispatch 50-70mph in 4.9 seconds and power on to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph.

Almost exactly 25 years since Audi unleashed its first quattro model on an astonished market, and set exceptional new precedents for agility and control on both rally stage and road, the latest evolution of the concept takes the potential of this system to new heights yet again. The allroad quattro concept features a modified version of the latest adaptive air suspension first used by the A8 luxury saloon, with electronically controlled four-mode adjustable damping giving optimum ride comfort and handling balance in all conditions, combined with a variable ride height. The lowest 160mm setting benefits on-road agility by dropping the centre of gravity, and reduces wind resistance and fuel consumption for motorway cruising in the process. The maximum height setting of 210mm gives the best possible ground clearance on rough terrain and steep inclines.

When driving in inhospitable, muddy conditions, or even just on salt and water-soaked winter roads, the allroad quattro concept ensures that visibility never suffers, thanks to an innovative coating of hydrophonic molecules covering the exterior window glass and mirrors that repels both water and dirt.

The rugged exterior of the allroad quattro contrasts with a cabin that is typically opulent, spacious and laden with advanced technology, including a new version of the MMI Multi Media Interface with a larger 8.9-inch monitor and even higher pixel resolution for optimum clarity. The MMI unit also includes a 3D off-road navigation system incorporating compass and longitudinal/lateral angle display.

Other features that could eventually filter through to other Audi models include the Audi road vision system, a world first for the brand that incorporates an optical sensor able to recognize the condition of the road and its surface. The system informs the driver of potential hazards such as loose gravel or black ice, and also gives the ESP electronic stabilization program and the adaptive cruise control additional, crucial parameters for even better proactive control. Expanded interior cargo box area comes with the larger SUV dimensions and standard factory Audi roof rack side rails are included as well.

The Audi lane assist system, another useful advance, induces vibrations through the steering wheel to inform the driver should he or she inadvertently stray across the lane divider lines. Audi side assist, in turn, incorporates radar sensors monitoring the area behind and next to the car to detect vehicles approaching the allroad quattro, or driving in its blind spots. The driver is informed by a warning light mounted in the exterior mirror on the appropriate side of the car.

Even the passenger compartment layout is innovative. A high center console runs its full length and incorporates subdivided storage compartments between two-piece armrests. These can be completely retracted into the floor, and the rear seats tilted forward at the touch of a button, to create a massive and completely smooth and flush load area. The fully retractable load cover is also housed within the floor to remove all clutter.

The allroad quattro concept shows the form an all-terrain evolution of the latest A6 Avant could take in the future, but at present there are no definite plans to make the car a production reality.