quattro Season: Car Control in the Snow

This episode of *All Wheel Driven* focuses on “quattro season” and why winter driving is where Audi’s legendary all-wheel-drive system truly proves itself—while also highlighting that technology can never replace skill. Hosted by Joe Kucinski, the conversation brings together leaders from the Northeast quattro chapter to discuss their winter car control clinics at Lime Rock Park and the broader driver education program. The panel explores common AWD myths, the limits of quattro, and why winter conditions expose both the strengths and weaknesses of any vehicle. Central to the discussion is the idea that while quattro is an exceptional system, tires are the true connection to the road, and proper preparation and technique are what ultimately build driver confidence.Through instructor insights and participant perspectives, the episode emphasizes car control fundamentals such as vision, smooth throttle and brake inputs, and managing weight transfer in slippery conditions. The group covers vehicle readiness, the importance of winter tires, and practical strategies for handling real-world scenarios like hills, intersections, and highway driving. Reinforcing Audi Club’s commitment to safety and education, the episode underscores that AWD does not mean invincibility—education and controlled practice are key. Listeners are encouraged to get involved with Northeast quattro events, whether as drivers or volunteers, and to consider joining the Audi Club community to further develop their skills and confidence behind the wheel.==========================EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction To All-Wheel Driven00:18 Our Podcast Hosts For Today01:16 Quick Intro About David Klock01:51 What Drives David's Winter Program Passion?02:17 First Memories: Driving in the Snow02:56 What Does Quattro Season Mean?04:12 The Car Control Clinics07:01 Where Are the Events Held at?07:34 What Does a Standard Clinic Structure Look Like?09:37 Are There Instructors in the Car?10:31 What are the Car Requirements?11:18 All-Season Tires VS Snow Tires12:45 When To Switch To Dedicated Winter Tires?13:22 Are Snow Tires OK When the Sun Comes Out?14:24 Other Winter Driving Tips15:52 Quattro Can Really Only Do So Much19:28 Do The Clinics Cover Different Scenarios?21:11 What is Usually the Biggest Takeaway?22:43 How Many Returning Student do They Get?23:30 Street Survival Classes24:58 What is David's Winter Daily Driver?25:42 Additional Winter Driving Tips: Part 226:36 How Does Quattro REALLY Stack Up?27:57 Being Smooth: Is It Important?29:03 The MOST IMPORTANT Winter Driving Habit29:41 What Else Does the Northeast Quattro Club Have Going On?31:19 Volunteer Opportunities?32:30 Final Pieces of Wisdom33:42 Car Mods VS "Driver Mods"34:57 Thank You to David36:10 Winter Events Don't Get Snowed Out36:38 Outro==========================All-Wheel Driven is presented by XPEL, the official paint protection film of Audi Club North America. Subscribe and connect with @audiclubna for exclusive Audi content.==========================Not yet a member of Audi Club North America? Join the world's largest community of Audi owners and enthusiasts and unlock benefits including:Discounts on Audi parts, accessories, and new or leased vehiclesAward-winning quarterly magazine (quattro)Exclusive driving events, clinics, and track experiencesA network of 32 chapters across North AmericaAnd much more!Learn more and join today: https://audiclubna.org