Overview & Reviews

Luxury-car shoppers who love value have long cheered the Audi A6. And in true Audi fashion, the midsize A6 gives you a lot for a very competitive price. One of the A6's primary strengths is its deluxe cabin. Materials are first-rate, and the overall design is nothing short of class-leading. Its winter-weather capability is another plus, as most A6s on dealer lots, like other Audis, have all-wheel drive.

But the car's most compelling asset concerns value. In terms of overall quality and performance, the Audi A6 is typically equal to or even better than its luxury sedan rivals, yet it typically costs thousands less. A used A6 represents an even more affordable proposition, though these older examples lack the athleticism of their more contemporary rivals. The latest A6 benefits further still from enhanced performance and increased driver engagement, making it a top choice in the segment.

Current Audi A6
Powering the base Audi A6 is a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 (2.0T) that produces 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Other engine choices include a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 (3.0T) with 310 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel (TDI) that cranks out 240 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard on the 2.0T. Standard with the other engines, and optional on the 2.0T, is an eight-speed automatic coupled to all-wheel drive. Fuel economy across the board is quite favorable when compared to competing sedans.

Trim levels start with the Premium (2.0T only) and move up through Premium Plus (2.0T, 3.0T and TDI) and Prestige (3.0T and TDI). Standard feature highlights of the Premium include a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Premium Plus trims add larger wheels, xenon headlights, parking sensors, keyless ignition and entry, upgraded audio, a navigation system and an in-car Internet connection. The Prestige boasts adaptive headlights, unique exterior accents, quad-zone climate control, ventilated front seats and a Bose sound system. Options depend on trim levels and include LED headlights, a sport-tuned suspension, a top-view camera system, a head-up display, various electronic driving/safety aides, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

In reviews, we rank the current Audi A6 highly for its engaging driving dynamics, excellent interior, long list of features and impressive combination of performance and fuel efficiency. Drivers with a penchant for winding roads will certainly appreciate the A6's tenacious grip on the pavement and well-balanced weight distribution, while others will likely enjoy the quiet and attractive cabin that is well stocked with intuitive high-tech wizardry. Whereas previous A6 generations played second fiddle to their Mercedes and BMW rivals, this latest version has no problem challenging them for first chair.

Used Audi A6 Models
The current A6 debuted for 2012 and represents the fourth generation in the car's lineage. Adopting the latest Audi design language, the A6 is distinctive for its large trapezoidal grille and more angular headlights. It is also notable for improvements in regard to performance, making it the go-to choice as a "driver's car." The next year brought automatic engine stop-start for the V6, available all-wheel-drive for the 2.0-liter engine and the available top-view camera system. Apart from the 2.0T having slightly less power (211 hp versus 220 hp), the unavailability of the TDI and a slight shuffling of trim levels, these latter A6s are similar to the current version.

The third-generation Audi A6 ran from the 2005 to the 2011 model year. Overall, the third-generation car represented an admirable mix of attention-getting style, entertaining driving dynamics and opulent furnishings. A wagon body style, known as the Avant, was offered alongside the sedan.

In the third generation's final year of production, three engines were offered: a 265-horsepower V6 (3.2), a 300-hp supercharged V6 (3.0T) and a 350-hp V8 (4.2). The 3.2 front-wheel-drive sedan had a CVT, while all other A6s came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The A6 Avant was only available with the 3.0T engine, AWD and the automatic.

Throughout the production run, trim levels were generally structured around engine selections. For the most part, three trims were offered: base 3.2 Premium, midlevel 3.0T Premium Quattro and top-of-the-line 4.2 Prestige Quattro. Wagons were available only in the 3.0T Premium Quattro trim. Standard features were as generous as any luxury car for the time, with navigation standard for all and the upper trims coming with heated seats. Meanwhile, Audi's easy-to-use Multi Media Interface (MMI) system made controlling audio, navigation and Bluetooth functions easy with clear and logical menus.

Those considering third-gen models should keep in mind that the base V6 made only 255 hp from 2005-'09 (later increased to 265 hp). Also, the supercharged V6 (3.0T) wasn't available from 2005-'08, while the car's V8 produced only 335 hp prior to 2007, when output was bumped to 350 hp. In terms of features, the A6 has stayed mostly unchanged, though trim packages and options were also simplified for '09, and the MMI electronics interface and navigation system were upgraded for 2010.

In reviews, we've found the engines smooth and refined. The base V6's acceleration is certainly passable, but our choice would be the 3.0T thanks to its broad range of torque and relative fuel efficiency. In fact, we've found this engine provided quicker acceleration than the V8. The A6 rode comfortably on the highway, and while it wasn't the most athletic car in its class, our editors applauded its predictable, confident feel around corners.

The second-generation A6 sedan arrived on the market in 1998 and benefited from a ground-up redesign; an all-new version of the Avant wagon debuted the following year. This was the first Audi A6 to ride on a stretched version of the highly regarded A4 platform.

For the first two years, only a naturally aspirated V6 was available, but in 2000, Audi added a spirited twin-turbocharged V6 and a torque-rich V8 to the sedan lineup. Given that acceleration tended to be sluggish with the base V6, particularly on the hefty A6 Avant wagon, Audi began offering a more powerful 3.0-liter six-cylinder in 2002. Transmission choices included a five-speed automatic and a CVT (which was introduced in 2002). In reviews, we praised the heavenly cabin and all-wheel-drive utility offered by the second-generation A6, and panned its somewhat nonlinear steering. Overall, it represents a solid choice for used-car shoppers.

The original Audi A6 came to market in 1995 as a lightly revised version of the old Audi 100 sedan and wagon. Although prices on used A6 models from this era are convincingly low, consumers should be aware that only one engine -- a 172-hp V6 -- is available on these cars. With the lightest A6 sedan weighing in at 3,400 pounds, acceleration is modest at best. However, much like newer Audis, this A6 was nicely appointed and offered a choice of front-wheel drive or Quattro all-wheel drive.

User Reviews:

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  One of the best wagons! - 1999 Audi A6
  By Baraka - April 10 - 2:51 pm

  Purchased with 79K now has 98k.The only major replacement was the front suspension.This wears out prematurely but there was a recall on this.However it does not last typically as long as other cars,it is aluminum.Aftermarket suspension is better than OE. Acceleration is adequate but once on the highway maintains speed well.Maybe gearing meant for Autobahn and not 0- 60 times. Very comfortable. Driving habits will determine fuel consumption.Heavy right lead footed acceleration will move the weighty Avant, but will result in average/poor fuel consumption. Handling very good with 17" wheels.Heated steering whell and seats.Bose stereo and 6 CD changer handy. Buying decision was based on safety.

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  Rolling artwork - 2004 Audi A6
  By the car expert - April 10 - 11:40 am

  I have owned over 40 vehicles, mostly new German cars. This Audi 2.7T S- Line luxury sedan is just that, luxury. While most think of it as a sport sedan, the fact is its handling, braking power, and ride quality is much more "luxury" than sport. Thats ok however, because Audi delivers on that. I am highly impressed with how quiet the interior is while driving at freeway speed. Also, the ride quality is exceptional. If you are looking for a sports sedan, purchase a BMW. If you are looking for comfort and rolling artwork down the road, this car is the one!

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  Ill buy another one - 2000 Audi A6
  By padre - April 7 - 5:54 am

  This is the most comfortable - front and back, best performing vehicle I have owned. 4.2 litre is very good on gas - 24 mph at 7 years old. I have put very little money into it -- brakes and preventive maintenance. Cost of ownership has been low. I will buy another 4.2 A-6 or A-8. I have very little fatigue driving long distances as opposed to my BMW, Volvo, Toyota.

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  I love my CPO A6 4.2 - 2005 Audi A6
  By A4 to A8 - April 4 - 1:21 pm

  Bought car CPO from a dealer. Used to own a 2004 A4 3.0 Quattro and fell in love after test driving the A6. Although used, general build quality is great and car drives smooth

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  The best and worst car Ive driven - 2001 Audi A6
  By kodylokster - April 2 - 7:48 pm

  The audi a6 2.7t is one of the best cars Ive driven. It handles, performance, and feels so comfortable. After a few months smoke came out of the tail pipes. I took it in the shop and found out there was a oil leak plus coolant leak. Auto shop says itll be about 3 grand for repairs and my limited warranty didnt cover gasket and seals. That stinks especially when it was about 2 grand for the warranty. After reading other people experience with the same problems makes me wonder. Audi quality kinda stinks. Maybe a weak gasket or bad quality seals or just the way it was build internally could lose value.

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  Amazing Vehicle - 2008 Audi A6
  By Awesome! - April 1 - 8:57 pm

  This is my second Audi A6 and this is an entirely new vehicle that was redesigned from the bottom up. On a 350 mile trip at avg speed of 75mph I got 30 MPG! Quiet cabin, great ergonomics,and the NAV is the best I have ever seen. The sound system is fantastic. Headlights are improved. I did find the sunroof to be a little small but it is not as important compared to all the positives.

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  High Maintenance - 2001 Audi A6
  By Vishnu - March 28 - 12:22 am

  Its a luxury sedan(I wouldnt call it luxury sports) since it doesnt handle corners as well as a BMW would. Quattro is good and it has a solid body. But parts under the hood are very unreliable and break often. Ive had the cam seals and valve cover gaskets changed twice, headlamp went out, coolant leak(water pump changed), wheel cracked, door handle cable snapped, cup-holder broken, oxygen sensors failed. I spent $4000 last month fixing all the above and a timing belt at a local mechanic(dealership wouldve cost me $6000) And now the auto-dimming rearview mirror is broke - i plan to fix it myself

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  You pay way for way overpriced Honda Accord - 2016 Audi A6
  By Moody - March 25 - 2:53 am

  I got this car all excited by the Audi name. First, the engine is very loud, even when you close the windows you can still hear the engine, comparing it to my wifes MB E350, huge difference. The ride is rough, even on the most comfortable setting, especially if you sit in the backseat. Everytime we go out as a family, the kids would run to my wifes car. I am really disappointed at the infotainement system. Search and scrolling through the setting is so antique, I wish they can learn from Tesla or Volve how to make the infotainment system user friendly: easy to use and attractive. I dont think I will be keeping the car beyond its waranty, God knows what else Audi was misleading the customers in their products.

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  Electronics can be a hassle - 2006 Audi A6
  By zzdaf38 - March 23 - 10:11 pm

  Car drives very well, fantastic road holding. Engine is strong but unrefined and loud. Electronics are a major hassle, battery often goes out and cant hold charge because the electronics drain it. Warning lights constantly on for some computer malfunction. You cant switch the varous sensors and warning off so be prepared to make the dealer your second home. Always an issue with something electronic. Car barely drives a day without some kind of electronic kink.

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  Fun to Drive and Safe - 2006 Audi A6
  By Sean - March 22 - 9:36 am

  The quattro feature makes me feel as if I am riding on tracks. I have been in a number of snow and ice storms this winter in New England and never even slipped. Amazing. Its fun to drive, and every component, every feature fits perfectly with each other - there is nothing wrong with this car. Service has lived up to expectations, Audi has gone out of its way to ensure a good experience.