What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owners are deeply divided.
9 problems reported (5 recurrent, 4 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTiming chain tensioner failure (B8, pre-2013 models)
Owners note this was a major issue corrected in the B8.5 generation.
- RecurrentOil consumption due to piston ring design (B8.5 2.0T)
Several owners report needing to add oil every few hundred miles.
- RecurrentAir suspension failure (2002 model)
Air springs and compressor are known to fail between 65k-120k miles.
+ 6 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentTurbo failure (2002 2.7T)
The twin K03 turbos often need replacement around 100k miles.
- RecurrentControl arm bushing wear
Owners report the car feeling "loose" as bushings wear out at higher mileage.
- IsolatedCoolant pump failure
Mentioned as a common issue on the B8.5 generation.
- IsolatedCV axle boot tear
Reported on a 2014 model.
- IsolatedRear glass break sensor failure
Reported on a 2014 model.
- IsolatedHigh-pressure fuel pump failure
Reported on a 2014 model.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus. Owners discuss the 2013-2016 B8.5 generation as having the timing chain tensioner issue fixed and a more reliable 2.0T engine, and the 2017+ B9 generation as having a good powertrain. However, no single trim or year is universally recommended as the best.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Volvo V60 Cross Country, Volvo V90, Subaru Outback XT, Toyota Crown Signia and BMW X5.
Is the allroad right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
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Overall sentiment
Owners are deeply divided. Many praise the allroad as a unique, fun-to-drive wagon that combines the nimble feel of a sedan with the utility of a small SUV, and they highlight its strong AWD and distinctive styling. However, the dominant counterpoint is that it is an expensive car to own, with high maintenance and repair costs, especially as mileage climbs past 80k-100k miles. The 2002 2.7T model is widely seen as a potential money pit, while the B8.5 (2013-2016) and B9 (2017-2020) generations are viewed as more reliable but still requiring a significant financial commitment for upkeep.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners position the allroad as a more engaging and stylish alternative to the Subaru Outback and Toyota Crown Signia, but note it is less reliable and more expensive to maintain than either. Compared to Volvo V60/V90 wagons, owners see them as close competitors in utility and winter capability, with some preferring the Volvo’s simpler, more reliable powertrain and cheaper maintenance, while others favor the Audi’s more modern interior and tech. Against the BMW X5 and Lexus RX350, the allroad is seen as a more fun, wagon-shaped choice that drives better than the RX350 but carries higher ownership risk.
Recommended configurations
Owners advise seeking a B8.5 (2013-2016) or B9 (2017-2020) model with a complete service history, especially records of timing chain replacement (for B8.5) and regular fluid changes. A pre-purchase inspection by an independent Audi specialist is strongly recommended. The 2002 2.7T model is widely advised against unless the buyer has deep pockets and mechanical skills.
General recommendations
The allroad is best suited for an enthusiast who values driving dynamics, wagon utility, and AWD capability, and who is prepared for higher-than-average maintenance costs. Buyers should avoid high-mileage examples without documented maintenance, especially the 2002 2.7T. A pre-purchase inspection by a German car specialist is essential. Owners recommend having a dedicated repair fund of at least $2,000-$3,000 set aside for unexpected repairs.
Remarks
The allroad is a niche vehicle in the US market, and owners frequently lament the lack of wagon options. The 2002 model's air suspension and twin-turbo engine are particularly costly to maintain, while later generations are seen as more robust but still require diligent upkeep. Analysis based on approximately 24 substantive owner discussions.