The Audi A6 Allroad quattro (4B, C5) 4.2 V8, produced between April 2003 and August 2005, represented the pinnacle of the C5 A6 Allroad range. Positioned as the flagship variant, it combined the practicality of a station wagon (estate) with the capability of Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system and a potent V8 engine. This model aimed to provide a luxurious and capable vehicle for those seeking both on-road comfort and off-road versatility, appealing to buyers who needed a vehicle that could handle diverse conditions. It was built on the 4B/C5 platform, shared with the standard A6, but distinguished by its increased ground clearance, reinforced underbody protection, and unique exterior styling cues.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Allroad quattro (4B,C5) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V8 (300 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | April, 2003 |
| End of production | August, 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.1 l/100 km (11.7 US mpg, 14.1 UK mpg, 5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 331 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp, 161.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 2700-4600 rpm (280.27 lb.-ft. @ 2700-4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BAS |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 5 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11 l (11.62 US qt | 9.68 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1590 l (56.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 4810 mm (189.37 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2757 mm (108.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1574 mm (61.97 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.68 m (38.32 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A6 Allroad 4.2 V8 is the BAS engine, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine, a member of Audi’s long-running V8 family, features a 90-degree V-angle, contributing to its smooth operation. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with five valves per cylinder. The engine produces 300 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque between 2700 and 4600 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and the quattro all-wheel-drive system contribute to balanced handling. Paired with the engine is a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission allows for both fully automatic operation and driver-selectable gear changes, offering a degree of control. The Tiptronic system uses a torque converter for smooth launches and low-speed driving, and electronically controlled gear changes for responsive performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2 V8 engine delivers strong and linear power delivery, providing effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.8 seconds, and the car has a governed top speed of 149 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, isn’t as quick-shifting as some modern transmissions. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The Allroad’s raised suspension and adaptive damping system (optional on some models) contribute to a comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces. Compared to the 2.5 TDI models, the 4.2 V8 offers significantly more power and a more refined driving experience, but at the cost of considerably higher fuel consumption. The manual transmission variants, while offering more driver engagement, lack the ease of use provided by the Tiptronic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The A6 Allroad 4.2 V8 came generously equipped. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and xenon headlights. The Allroad also featured unique exterior trim, including flared wheel arches, stainless steel underbody protection, and roof rails. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and advanced parking assistance systems. Interior trim options allowed for customization, with choices in wood or aluminum accents.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 Allroad features an independent multi-link front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension with coil springs. The Allroad’s suspension was raised compared to the standard A6, providing increased ground clearance for off-road capability. All four wheels are equipped with ventilated disc brakes, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The Allroad’s chassis is reinforced to handle the increased stresses associated with off-road driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A6 Allroad 4.2 V8 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, its high fuel consumption and relatively high price were noted as drawbacks. Compared to the 2.5 TDI Allroad, the 4.2 V8 offered a more luxurious and engaging driving experience, but was significantly less fuel-efficient. The 4.2 V8 was positioned as a premium offering, appealing to buyers who prioritized performance and refinement over economy.
Legacy
The Audi A6 Allroad 4.2 V8 (C5) remains a desirable vehicle in the used car market. The BAS V8 engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. The Tiptronic transmission, while generally durable, can be prone to issues if not properly serviced. The Allroad’s unique combination of luxury, performance, and all-weather capability continues to appeal to enthusiasts. Finding well-maintained examples can be challenging, but the A6 Allroad 4.2 V8 offers a distinctive and rewarding driving experience for those willing to invest in its upkeep.
