one would certainly assume that the front axel spinning would consume more gas - as i also initially assumed. but, to my surprise, in real world conditions, i’ve had zero noticeable difference in mpg, over the past 2 years / 20k miles, when comparing 4A normal to 2A normal, same gas station - same routes.
steering wheel heaviness, response, & accuracy significantly improves with 4A, most noticeable on straight highway tracking & sharp corners with the tighter, heavier, more stable wheel...
with all this power, the 4A traction is by far superior, for heavy acceleration from stop, & accelerating out of a steep corner, & i would rather have 4A re-distribute power instantly instead of the slip control applying the brakes to a single wheel. maybe it’s because i learned how to drive on quattro... but the difference is so noticeable for me, i honestly can’t run the vehicle in 2A anymore - at least for my driving style & local roads.
engaging sport mode puts it in 4A automatically. surely there’s a reason for that ... ? i don’t run in sport because i prefer the normal shift points, but i did steal the idea of running in 4A from testing sport mode... i don’t run eco because i’d rather do my own eco mode by going light on the throttle & have full power instantly if i need it for any reason. currently averaging 20-22 on highway trips in 4A normal with my Rotiiva AT plus E’s, with ultra-low rolling resistance / lightweight sidewalls. i feel like it’s the best balance for MPG & driveability / safety for me in all weather conditions.
for any small payload trips, if i commute, or just want better mpg’s, i just downsize & take the diesel touareg @ 30mpg.
