The idea of a road trip is exciting for many of us, and perhaps those less enthusiastic about it are yet to experience a road trip in the right vehicle. With this in mind, we are going to explore the 31-model-strong local Audi line-up to determine whether the Ingolstadt-based brand produces products that are good for extended trips. Before we determine which Audi models are good for road trips, we need to explore the attributes that make a product good for road trips.
Refinement
In order for a vehicle to be good for extended trips, it needs to be quiet, refined and comfortable, which makes the hundreds of kilometres covered in an average road trip go by with ease. A noisy vehicle with a harsh ride quality will make a vehicle unpleasant to cover a great distance in.
Space
While the space a vehicle offers is relative to how many people it is carrying, an important consideration in any vehicle used for extended trips is both how much luggage space it offers and indeed, how much occupant space it offers.
Power and torque
While the weight of a vehicle is also a consideration, the power and torque that a vehicle produces can be important on a road trip, with a large lump of torque providing overtaking ability.
Safety
As fun as a road trip can be, our national roads are a dangerous place, so a vehicle with a solid safety rating is essential.
Convenience features
While simplicity is refreshing, a feature-packed vehicle is a far better place to spend hours in. Whether it be climate control, cruise control, semi-autonomous driving functionality, rear entertainment screens for the kids or something as simple as multiple cup holders, or a chilled glovebox, features can really add to the enjoyment of the occupants on board.
A large fuel tank/battery pack
The size of a vehicle's fuel tank/battery pack is also relative to the vehicle in question. Some vehicles are more efficient and can therefore travel further with a smaller fuel tank/battery, so the important consideration is how large the fuel tank/battery is relative to the average fuel/energy consumption of the car. This is important on a road trip as it means longer periods between refuelling.
Which Audis are good for a road trip?
There are an impressive 31 models in the local Audi line-up, and having looked at each model, we can surmise that the majority of the range will be good options for a road trip. Each new Audi model tested has achieved a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating. Models that we feel will be good for a road trip include the A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, Q2, Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8, RS4, RS5, RS6, RS7, RSQ3, RSQ8, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ7 and the SQ8. Models we feel will be less suited to a cross country trip include the TT, R8, RS e-tron GT, e-tron GT and e-tron.
