The Unexpected Overlander: An Audi Allroad 4.2 V8 Adventure

When you think of overlanding, the usual suspects come to mind — rugged Toyota Land Cruisers, tough-as-nails Land Rovers, or even the latest generation of 4WD utes we have on offer here in New Zealand. But what if I told you there’s another contender, one that’s often overlooked yet surprisingly capable? And, one I was willing to put a big gamble on? Enter my 2009 Audi Allroad 4.2 V8.

This isn’t your typical overlander. Although it was designed to add another level of off road versatility to Audi's Quattro system, I don't think the boys over in Germany had any idea someone would be modifying it in this way, for vehicle-based camping. But sometimes, the best adventures come from pushing boundaries, and I thought, why not give it a nudge?

Building the Overland Audi

The foundation of this build was an Audi Allroad with a 4.2L V8 engine — a powerhouse that produces 257kW and 440Nm of torque. While it’s more at home on the autobahn, this engine was about to be put to the test on the winding gravel roads of New Zealand’s South Island. Initially, I purchased an earlier shape Audi Allroad C5, with the 2.7L twin turbo V6. I got it for a bargain and I initially was going to build that for overlanding. However, this particular example popped up for sale and I jumped on it. 

The Allroad’s air suspension was a game-changer, offering variable ride heights at the push of a button. I fitted larger Nankang AT tyres for better grip and ground clearance, paired with aftermarket alloys to widen the track. The final touch was a Feldon Crow's Nest roof tent, an 18L Brass Monkey fridge, and a basic 12V setup to keep everything running smoothly during an upcoming 18-day South Island journey.

The Journey Begins

Setting off from Auckland, I was immediately struck by how well the Allroad adapted to its new role. On the highway, it cruised effortlessly, the V8 providing ample power for overtaking and the air suspension soaking up the bumps. But it was when I ventured off the beaten path that the real fun began.

The South Island is a land of contrasts — towering mountains, deep fjords, and vast open plains. The Allroad handled it all with surprising ease. On gravel roads, the larger tyres provided confidence-inspiring traction and better ride comfort, while the air suspension allowed me to raise the ride height when the going got tough. Although, I wasn't able to run the Audi in its lowest air suspension setting due to tyre rubbage.

A Surprising Contender

Over the course of 18 days, the Allroad proved itself as a capable and comfortable overlander. From the rugged tracks of the Southern Alps to the remote beaches of the West Coast, it took everything in its stride. Nights were spent under the stars in the Feldon roof tent, with the 18L fridge keeping my supplies cool and the 12V setup ensuring I had power for essentials.

What surprised me most was how the Allroad excelled in situations it was never designed for. The V8’s power was more than enough to tackle steep inclines and loose gravel, while the Quattro all-wheel drive system provided excellent grip in slippery conditions. Even the air suspension, designed for comfort on the road, proved invaluable in navigating uneven terrain. Oh, and passing people with ease on the highway with a roof tent on the top sure was a good feeling!

The Verdict

Would I recommend the Audi Allroad 4.2 V8 as the ultimate overlander? Perhaps not for everyone. But for those who have Audi in their blood like I do, they're a great option. It didn't need much before it was capable of tackling South Island adventure. It’s proof that with the right modifications and a sense of adventure, even a luxury crossover can become a capable off-road explorer. I can definitely see the appeal of the Porsche Cayenne and so forth!

The South Island’s diverse landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for this unconventional journey. And while the Allroad might not replace the rugged 4WDs that dominate the overlanding scene, it certainly holds its own in the most unexpected ways. Although I now own a HDJ100 Land Cruiser, the Allroad still holds a special place in my heart for how effortlessly it conquered a camping trip like that. Ah, maybe another one, one day.