ALLROAD (2.7t) OWNERS, I have questions...

[R. Mair]

Welp, I test drove a new 2002 tiptronic Allroad tonight and was pretty
impressed. The test drive circuit consisted of nice back country roads, with
allot of switchbacks, bumps and a few straights in which to open it up a
little. Basically this car will be my wifes daily driver, however I have
questions that need to be answered by the enthusiasts on this list, and not
a salesman who needs to sell you the car. In reply, please CC waves at epix.net
as well...

#1 I dislike the tiptronics somewhat. They seem, after all these years, to
still have to much computer assist and lag. Does anyone have a 6 speed in
their allroad and if so, what sort of fuel mileage do you get. Also, does
the engine seem to have enough grunt to accelerate from a taller gear
without shifting?


#2 I wasn't impressed with the power. I thought it should have a little more
smoke. I do realize that the demo car only had 100miles, likely had old fuel
and the AC was on, plus it's heavy and yanking all 4 wheels. Question is,
has anyone chipped these cars and what was the result. One of the companies
make an 4 level chip (valet, stock, sport and race setting) for what seems
to be a reasonble price. I'm just wondering if these motors have reacted
favorably and reliably to being chipped?


#3 Price, it seems that the 2002 are going for a few thousand under MSRP, in
order to make way for the 2003 which are presently sitting in parking lots
at the docks. I don't need all the fluff (xenon lights, nav system,
northstar etc.) but still want heated seats and minor options. Pricing seems
to be in the low $41-42k range, with what the salesman says is even,
'perhaps', a little more room to work. Has anyone purchased a mildly
equipped 2002 allroad for under $40k?


#4 I'd love to have the xenon lights, but I'd need to buy into the premium
package which adds $2k to the price. Can anyone say these lights really are
that awesome, compared to the standard projection lights, that they'd be
worth the extra cost of getting all the other options I really don't need? I
know they are better, but by how much?


#5 Any other suggestions are welcome. If the wife doesn't agree with me
wanting an Allroad, I'm affraid we may be shopping for a cheaper SUV :-(

Rolf