Despite the current dominance of SUVs and crossovers, Audi shows continuing faith in the luxury wagon segment with the 2020 A6 Allroad. The A6 Allroad was first introduced in 2000 as a beefed-up variant of the A6 Avant wagon, with higher ground clearance and body cladding that signified a readiness to rumble. The new A6 Allroad follows in the original car's spirit. Although it’s likely to be cross-shopped against luxury crossovers, direct competitors include the Volvo V90 and the much more affordable but similarly purposeful Subaru Outback.

The most common Audi A6, on which the Allroad is based, is a sleek luxury sedan, and though the A6 Allroad bears a resemblance, its upgrades are substantial. Matte gray contrast trim follows the rocker panels and arches, though buyers can opt for body-color trim instead. Front and rear LED lighting, an exclusive grille, rear diffuser, and 18-inch wheels offer a distinctive look, and standard roof rails add functionality. This year’s Anniversary Edition model gets a special Gavial Green finish as a throwback to the ubiquitous Highland Green on the first Allroads.

Every A6 Allroad gets a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with a mild-hybrid system that boosts power and efficiency. Output checks in at 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) and Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) come standard; you’ll also get an adaptive air suspension system that makes it easy to switch between on- and off-road surfaces, plus six driving modes, including settings for Offroad and Lift. Fuel-economy ratings come in at 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined.

The A6 Allroad is available in Premium Plus and Prestige trims. Standard features include keyless entry and start, a hands-free trunk, automatic windshield wipers and headlights, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, leather upholstery, and LED ambient lighting. Options include heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, massaging front seats, and upgraded leather upholstery. The Anniversary Edition complements the exclusive green exterior with a cabin done in brown Valcona leather, fine-grain ash wood trim, and stainless steel pedals.

Both A6 Allroad trims include the Audi Virtual Cockpit 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an infotainment display comprised of a 10.1-inch upper and 8.6-inch lower touchscreen, Bluetooth, HD Radio, satellite radio, a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and voice recognition.

The 2020 A6 Allroad has not been evaluated for crashworthiness by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All A6 Allroad models include a reversing camera, surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, front and rear parking sensors, and the Audi Pre Sense Basic and Pre Sense Front systems. The Prestige model adds active lane assist with emergency and side assist, Audi Pre Sense Rear with rear cross-traffic assist, vehicle exit warning, traffic-jam assist, traffic-sign recognition, and a head-up display.

In the current market, it’s hard to see shoppers clamoring for more wagons when the all-mighty SUV reigns supreme. However, the Audi A6 Allroad has always had a particular charm, and this new iteration is certain to find some adoring homes.