In a world dominated by anonymous crossovers, the 2024 Audi Quattro Avant arrives as a thrilling throwback - a practical wagon with the soul of a rally car and styling that pays homage to its legendary ancestor while embracing modern technology. This isn't just another estate - it's Audi's love letter to its motorsport heritage.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Pull up in the new Quattro Avant, and people will definitely notice. Its muscular proportions and rally-inspired styling cues make an unmistakable statement. The flared wheel arches house massive 21-inch wheels, while the distinctive LED light signature includes a subtle nod to the original Quattro's quad headlights.
The front end features an illuminated Quattro badge within Audi's signature single-frame grille, now finished in gloss black. Those functional air intakes aren't just for show - they're feeding a powertrain that demands serious cooling. The overall effect? A wagon that looks ready to tackle a special stage on its way to collect the groceries.
INSIDE THE BEAST
Slide into the driver's seat and the Quattro Avant surrounds you with a perfect blend of heritage touches and cutting-edge technology. The flat-bottomed steering wheel feels substantial in your hands, while the sport seats feature heritage-inspired plaid inserts that pay homage to the original while providing modern support.
The dual touchscreens handle infotainment and climate duties, but Audi has wisely retained physical controls for key functions. The Virtual Cockpit display can be configured to show a rally-inspired layout, complete with a shift indicator and boost gauge. Yes, there's plenty of tech here, but it enhances rather than distracts from the driving experience.
And speaking of practical matters - this is still very much a wagon. The power tailgate reveals a generous cargo area that expands dramatically when you fold the rear seats. Try finding that versatility in your sports coupe.
THE HEART OF THE MATTER
Under that sculpted hood lies a thoroughly modern interpretation of Audi's legendary five-cylinder engine. The 2.5-liter turbocharged unit pumps out 450 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque - figures that would have seemed impossible in the original Quattro era. The distinctive 1-2-4-5-3 firing order creates a soundtrack that's unmistakably Audi.
The mild hybrid system isn't just about efficiency - it eliminates turbo lag and provides additional torque when needed. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts with lightning speed, while the latest evolution of Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system features a torque-vectoring rear differential that can send power to individual wheels for maximum traction and agility.
THE DRIVE
Press the starter button and the five-cylinder awakens with that distinctive warble that's been engineered to echo its ancestor while meeting modern emissions standards. Select Dynamic mode and the exhaust baffles open to deliver a soundtrack that's part symphony, part rally stage.
The acceleration is simply ferocious. 0-100 km/h happens in just 3.7 seconds - faster than many dedicated sports cars - and it'll keep pulling with relentless determination to its electronically limited top speed.
But straight-line speed is only part of the story. The adaptive suspension and rear-wheel steering help this performance wagon handle corners with astonishing agility. The quattro system continuously varies torque distribution, sending power where it's needed most. It's not a lightweight sports car, but the grip and balance are nothing short of remarkable.
Switch to Comfort mode, and the Quattro Avant settles down admirably, the suspension softening to soak up Abu Dhabi's occasional road imperfections. It's this duality that makes the Quattro Avant special - rally car aggression when you want it, family car refinement when you need it.
LIVING WITH IT
For something with such performance credentials, the Quattro Avant is surprisingly easy to live with. The visibility is good by modern standards, the turning circle is tight thanks to that rear-wheel steering, and the driver assistance systems take the stress out of daily commuting.
Fuel economy? Well, if you're asking that question, this probably isn't the car for you. The official figures suggest around 10.5 liters/100km combined, but your actual consumption will depend entirely on how often you find yourself exploring the upper reaches of the rev range - and with a soundtrack this addictive, that might be quite often.
THE VERDICT
The 2024 Audi Quattro Avant isn't just a fast wagon - it's a celebration of Audi's motorsport heritage in a thoroughly modern package. It says you know your automotive history but don't want to sacrifice modern performance or convenience. It says you appreciate engineering excellence but also need to pick up the kids from school.
At around AED 475,000 to start, it's not cheap. But for something that can attack Jebel Hafeet like a rally car and handle Mall of the Emirates parking with equal aplomb, it represents something of a bargain. Plus, you get the satisfaction of driving something genuinely special on Sheikh Zayed Road, where even supercars struggle to stand out from the crowd.
QUICK STATS
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder with mild hybrid
- Power: 450 hp
- Torque: 500 Nm
- 0-100 km/h: 3.7 seconds
- Top speed: 250 km/h (280 km/h with Dynamic Plus package)
- Cargo space: 565 liters (seats up), 1,680 liters (seats down)
- Price: Starts at around AED 475,000
