Audi’s “quattro” is the name for its all-wheel drive (AWD) system that sends power to all four wheels instead of just the front or rear axle.

What “quattro” means

  • The word comes from Italian for “four,” referring to four driven wheels.
  • Audi uses the quattro badge to indicate that a car has some form of AWD system.

How Audi quattro works (simple version)

In most quattro setups:

  • Power is constantly sent to both front and rear axles (not just one).
  • A center differential (or clutch system, depending on model) shifts torque between front and rear wheels to maximize grip.
  • If some wheels slip (snow, rain, gravel), more power is sent to the wheels with better traction.

This gives:

  • Better traction in bad weather.
  • More stability in corners and at higher speeds.
  • A more secure, confidence-inspiring feel in everyday driving.

A tiny bit of history

  • quattro first appeared in 1980 on the original Audi Quattro coupe (often called the “Ur-Quattro”).
  • Its success in rally racing in the 1980s made AWD performance cars mainstream and heavily shaped Audi’s brand image.

Where you’ll see “quattro” today

You’ll find quattro (or its newer evolutions) on many Audi models, for example:

  • A3, A4, A6, A8 sedans and wagons.
  • Q3, Q5, Q7, Q8 SUVs.
  • Performance models like S and RS variants (e.g., RS 6, RS Q8).

Quick pros and cons

Advantages

  • Better grip in rain, snow, and on loose surfaces.
  • Improved stability and safety in many real-world conditions.
  • Strong performance feel, especially on powerful S/RS models.

Disadvantages

  • Slightly higher fuel consumption and weight than a comparable two‑wheel drive car.
  • More mechanical complexity, which can mean higher purchase and maintenance costs.

TL;DR: If you’re wondering “what is quattro Audi,” it’s Audi’s signature AWD technology and branding that means the car can drive all four wheels for extra traction, stability, and performance.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.