What is Audi Quattro and How Does it Work?

What does Audi Quattro mean?

Simply put, Quattro refers to Audi's famed all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which, unlike traditional two-wheel drive systems, delivers power to all four wheels. This ensures better traction, stability, and control, especially in challenging driving conditions.

Over the years, Audi has established itself as a leader in high-performance luxury vehicles, renowned for their exceptional driving dynamics and cutting-edge technology.

Among the many technologies that set Audi apart from the rest is the Audi Quattro system, which was introduced in the early 1980s and fast became a game-changer, revolutionising performance and handling in vehicles.

Contents

• How does Audi Quattro work?
• Advantages of Audi Quattro
• Disadvantages of Audi Quattro
• What models feature Audi Quattro?

How does Audi Quattro work?

The heart of the Audi Quattro system lies in its ability to distribute power across all four wheels. Depending on the road conditions, the system can adjust the amount of torque sent to each wheel to optimise grip on the road and overall stability. Here is a breakdown of how it works:

• Central Differential: The Quattro system uses a central differential that can split power between the front and rear axles. In many models, this split is typically 40 percent to the front and 60 percent to the rear under normal conditions, but it can be adjusted in real-time.
• Torque Vectoring: Some Quattro systems are equipped with advanced torque vectoring, which allows the system to send more power to the wheels with the most grip. This is particularly useful during cornering, where the outer wheels may need more power to maintain optimal grip.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Quattro works hand-in-hand with the vehicle's ESC system to monitor and adjust power delivery, ensuring the vehicle remains stable even during extreme manoeuvres or on slippery surfaces.

Advantages of Audi Quattro

The Quattro system offers a range of benefits that make it a preferred choice for many drivers, including:

• Improved Traction: Quattro is especially beneficial in poor weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, where extra grip is crucial.
• Enhanced Stability: By distributing power to all four wheels, Quattro improves overall vehicle stability, reducing the chances of skidding or loss of control.
• Better Handling: The system provides superior handling, particularly in high-performance driving situations, thanks to its ability to manage power distribution dynamically.
• Increased Safety: With better traction and stability, Audi vehicles equipped with Quattro offer an added layer of safety, giving drivers more confidence on the road.

Disadvantages of Audi Quattro

While Audi Quattro has many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as:

• Increased Weight: The Quattro system adds extra weight to the vehicle, which can impact fuel efficiency and acceleration.
• Higher Cost: Vehicles equipped with Quattro are generally more expensive to purchase and maintain compared to their two-wheel drive counterparts.
• Complexity: The complexity of the Quattro system can lead to higher repair costs if something goes wrong, and not all mechanics may be equipped to handle such sophisticated technology.

What models feature Audi Quattro?

There are many models in the Audi range which feature Quattro all-wheel drive. Below are some of the most popular Quattro models in the Audi range:

Audi Quattro car models