Audi Quattro Explained: Meaning, How It Works, Benefits and Models

Audi Quattro has become one of the most recognised terms in the automotive world. Many drivers know it as Audi’s four-wheel drive system, but few understand exactly what it means, how it works, and why it has shaped the brand’s reputation for control, safety and performance on UK roads.

Audi Quattro has gathered a lot of interest because many drivers want to understand what it really means, how it works and why it matters on the road. This guide explains the system in simple terms, including its history, different versions, the benefits it offers in real driving, and the Audi models that use it today.

If you are considering an Audi as your next vehicle, many Quattro models are also available on car leasing , with both business and personal leasing options.

What Does Audi Quattro Mean?

The word “Quattro” is Italian for “four”. In Audi’s case, it refers to a four-wheel drive system designed to send power to all wheels instead of just the front or rear.

This setup improves traction, balance, cornering confidence and handling in different conditions such as wet roads, icy surfaces, or fast motorway driving. Quattro has become a central part of Audi’s identity, appearing on road-going models, performance cars, SUVs and even their motorsport history.

What Is Audi Quattro?

Audi Quattro is the brand name for Audi’s all-wheel drive system. While many car makers offer four-wheel drive, Audi developed its own approach that distributes power intelligently between the front and rear wheels. Over the years, several versions have been released, but the purpose remains the same:

• Improve grip and handling

• Increase stability at speed

• Deliver better performance when accelerating

• Provide reassurance in rain, ice or uneven road surfaces

Quattro first appeared in 1980, and the technology immediately changed Audi’s position in global motorsport, especially in rallying.

How Audi Quattro Works

Although Audi Quattro has evolved over the years, the basic idea is simple. Four wheels receive power instead of two. This helps reduce wheel slip and makes the car more stable and predictable in real driving situations.

Mechanical Quattro (Torsen or Crown Gear)

This system uses a mechanical centre differential to continuously distribute power. If the front wheels lose grip, more power is sent toward the rear, and vice-versa. This system is found in higher-performance models and delivers a natural, responsive driving feel because there is no delay in power transfer.

Quattro Ultra

Newer models use “Quattro Ultra”, a smart system that can switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive depending on the situation. When full traction is not required, power is sent only to the front wheels to improve efficiency. If more grip is needed, the rear axle is engaged instantly.

Quattro with Electric Motors (EV and Hybrid Systems)

Electric Audi models use motors on separate axles rather than a central differential. Some e-tron models use one motor on the front axle and one at the rear. This allows fast and precise power distribution, creating very strong acceleration and excellent handling with no lag.

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History of Audi Quattro – How It Became a Global Icon

Quattro is more than a four-wheel drive system. It changed Audi’s history. Before 1980, many manufacturers only used four-wheel drive for off-road vehicles. Audi brought the technology into normal cars and then proved its ability in motorsport.

1980 – First Quattro Road Car

The original Audi Quattro launched at the 1980 Geneva Motor Show. It was based on the Audi Coupe but featured a permanent four-wheel drive system developed for winter military vehicles.

981–1987 – Rally Success

In rallying, the Quattro system allowed Audi to outperform rear-wheel drive rivals, especially in poor surface conditions such as mud, snow and gravel. Audi won the World Rally Championship and firmly established the Quattro name.

1990s – Wider Adoption in Road Cars

By the mid-1990s, Quattro became a signature feature across many Audi saloons and estates.

2000s to Today – Smarter and More Efficient

Quattro now comes in mechanical, electronic and electric versions, depending on the model. It remains a key selling point for British drivers, especially in winter or wet motorway conditions.

Benefits of Audi Quattro in Real Driving

Better Grip

Power is shared across all wheels instead of relying only on the front or rear, reducing the risk of wheel slip, especially when accelerating.

More Confident Cornering

Quattro systems send more power to wheels that still have traction, helping the car stay balanced when taking bends at speed.

Strong Acceleration

Because multiple wheels share the load, Quattro models can accelerate faster and with less wheel spin. This is noticeable in performance models such as the S and RS range.

Improved Safety in Wet or Cold Weather

In the UK, drivers face rain, uneven roads and winter conditions. Quattro gives reassurance and stability in such environments.

Ideal for Larger SUVs

Heavier SUVs benefit even more from four-wheel drive, especially when carrying passengers or luggage.

Audi Models Available with Quattro

Many Audi cars offer Quattro either as standard or as part of a higher trim or engine option. Popular models include:

• Audi A3

• Audi A4

• Audi A5

• Audi A6

• Audi A7

• Audi A8

• Audi Q2

• Audi Q3

• Audi Q5

• Audi Q7

• Audi Q8

• Audi TT

• Audi RS 6 performance models

• Audi e-tron electric models

If you are considering one of these for your next vehicle, Quattro versions are widely available to lease through personal car leasing or business leasing options.

Is Audi Quattro Worth It?

Whether Quattro is right for you depends on your driving habits and the type of Audi you prefer.

When Quattro Makes Sense

• You drive often in rain, winter or uneven conditions

• You value strong handling and balance

• You want fast acceleration and grip in performance models

• You regularly travel on motorways at higher speeds

• You want stability in SUVs and larger vehicles

When Front-Wheel Drive May Be Enough

• You drive mainly in cities

• Your routes are mostly straight and low-speed

• You prefer the most fuel-efficient version of the car

Both options exist in most Audi ranges, giving drivers flexibility to match their usage and budget.

Quattro in Electric Audi Models

Electric Audis like the Q4 e-tron and larger e-tron models do not use a mechanical centre differential. Instead, power is controlled electronically through individual motors at each axle. This brings several advantages:

• Immediate torque to each wheel

• Very fast reaction to wheel slip

• Smooth power delivery in all conditions

• Less mechanical complexity

As electric technology progresses, Quattro EV systems are becoming even more advanced.

Quattro vs Other All-Wheel Drive Systems

Many manufacturers offer all-wheel drive, including BMW xDrive and Mercedes 4MATIC. While all aim for similar results, Audi has a long-standing reputation and decades of development behind Quattro.

Key differences often include:

• Very consistent performance in difficult conditions

• Early adoption in rally competition

• Broad usage across saloons, estates, SUVs and electric models

This is why many buyers who want secure handling and reliable traction often consider Audi first when choosing a four-wheel drive car.

Considering a Quattro Audi as Your Next Car?

Audi Quattro models are available through car leasing and offer a practical mix of performance, control, and everyday usability. Whether you want a sporty hatchback, a luxurious saloon or a large family SUV, there is a Quattro model to suit most budgets and driving styles.