In a country where your daily commute can switch from smooth highway tarmac to gravel tracks faster than a minibus taxi changes lanes, the new Audi A6 allroad arrives as a breath of fresh air for those who refuse to choose between comfort and capability. Now in its fifth generation, this elevated wagon doesn’t just look the part; it lives it, with a body 11cm wider than the standard A6 Avant, flared wheel arches, and distinctive allroad styling. We know that South Africans are no longer interested in station wagons, but we think the allroad is something that would appeal to discerning buyers. Even if there are not many of them anymore.
Under the skin, the A6 allroad gets serious upgrades for our varied conditions. Standard adaptive air suspension with off-road modes raises ground clearance when needed, while all-wheel steering and quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) ensure confident handling. Power comes from electrified options: a punchy 3.0-litre V6 TDI making 220kW and 580Nm, with something called MHEV plus tech for efficiency, or for the first time, a plug-in Hybrid setup that blends torque with electric range. Provisional official figures suggest combined consumption in the low 6L/100km range for the diesel, which should appeal to Mzansi buyers facing mammoth diesel fuel prices. As for the plugin Hybrid, that develops 270kW of total system output, and 500Nm, plus an electric-only range of 95km, according to Audi’s own figures. The brand also says the small 25.9kWh battery takes about 2.5 hours to fully charge.
Inside, it’s pure Audi luxury with a spacious, tech-laden cabin featuring dual screens, premium materials, and Individual contour seats that offer ventilation and massage. The panoramic sunroof adds an airy feel, making it ideal for family adventures where everyone stays comfortable.
For local motorists, the A6 allroad appears to strike a sweet spot between sophistication, efficiency, updated design and mild offroad abilities. It’s definitely not trying to be a full off-roader like a Land Rover Defender for example, but it bridges the gap between luxury sedan and SUV in a way that promises to be genuinely practical. Pricing starts around €77 250 in Europe (perhaps around R2.3 million in Mzansi, depending on spec).
