Inside Audi | Audi quattro® all-wheel-drive | Audi USA


What sets us apart from the rest.

quattro isn’t just an all-wheel drive system—it’s what makes an Audi an Audi. Combining exceptional driving dynamics with extraordinary traction and efficiency, quattro creates a driving experience like no other.

quattro features

quattro systems

One-size-fits-all isn’t in our vocabulary. That’s why we’ve tailored quattro to complement each and every one of our models—for an exhilarating ride, every time. Watch the videos below to learn about the different systems.

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    quattro with ultra

    Legendary quattro all-wheel drive with ultra technology proactively switches to all-wheel drive in specific driving circumstances—offering additional grip before it’s needed, and efficiency when it's not.

    See quattro with ultra in action
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    Multi-plate clutch

    Under normal driving conditions, the quattro system directs most of its power to the front wheels for improved efficiency. When conditions become demanding, more torque is sent to the rear wheels for traction you can trust.

    Watch multi-plate clutch performance
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    Self-locking differential

    This quattro system normally splits torque between the front and rear, always powering all four wheels. Power can be quickly sent to the axle with the best traction for enhanced control depending on driving conditions.

    View self-locking differential video

Reimagined for an electric future

Driving an EV doesn’t mean compromising performance. Audi e-quattro systems deliver the same exceptional driving dynamics that Audi has been providing for decades—so you can make the switch with confidence.

quattro history is Audi history.

The legend of quattro began nearly five decades ago—and the story is still unfolding. Discover the full timeline below.

A 1980s Audi vehicle driving through the snow.

Past. quattro came to be in the winter of 1976, when Audi engineers noticed that AWD prototypes outperformed their FWD counterparts in the deep snow. Shortly after, quattro became the first permanent all-wheel drive system for passenger cars. Since then, it's inspired many imitations—but no equal.

When driving during cold, rainy, snowy or icy weather conditions, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with appropriate all-season or winter tires. Even with appropriate tires, you must always drive in a manner appropriate for the weather, visibility and road conditions.

Experience quattro in action.