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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  2001 Audi A6 2.8 - 2001 Audi A6
  By gwood - July 29 - 9:59 am

  I purchased my A6 2.8 used in 2002. It was in perfect condition and had low miles. It was, and still is, a beautiful car and a pleasure to drive. At the time of purchase, my commute to work was about 32 miles one way on interstate highway. Speeds where high and traffic heavy. I always felt safe in my Audi due to their reputation and side curtain air bags. I love everything about this car except its lousy maintenance history. It has been a very expensive (dollars and time) car to own. I can live with components wearing out and needing replacement but the continual oil leaks are unacceptable. It seems that Ive had every gasket and seal replace on the engine, drive train and power steering.

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  Best interior style, reliable fun - 2006 Audi A6
  By JHAUDI - July 22 - 10:30 am

  Great experience, 25,000 mi and counting. Audi replaced a faulty rear window (fog inside glass) upon delivery. Love the mtce warranty. No major repairs or issues, and NO minor ones either. Best road handler out there, summer, fall and especially winter. Love this car in winter! Cleans up real nice too, time and again.

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  Buyer Beware - 2003 Audi A6
  By R8R fan - July 21 - 12:01 pm

  Based on the reputation of how the German cars drive I crossed the line from Japanese and bought this car. It was the worst decision I ever made. At 70K miles everything falls apart. I have a huge oil spot on my garage floor from oil leaking, the airbag light stays on constantly because the device is defective (only $1,400 to replace it), then the transmission celanoid went out and cost me $1,800. DO NOT BUY A USED AUDI. I am sure these are great cars when they roll off the showroom floor because they are covered under warranty. I WOULD NOT BUY AN AUDI UNLESS IT IS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. These cars are fun to drive, but they are not reliable and cost a fortune to repair.

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  Lousy Audi - 2006 Audi A6
  By leblancjon - July 21 - 10:07 am

  Spent a total of 3 months at the dealer for repair of sunroof (3 times), noise in suspensions (never fixed - the dealer gave up, suggested I buy another car), blew transmission after 6300 miles. Again dealer suggested I should have bought a Quatro, instead of a CVT. Still has noises in the liner, suspension, rattles in the door and seats. Do yourself a favor, do not bay an Audi.

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  Audi: Never Follow - 1999 Audi A6
  By GuyfromMD - July 18 - 12:53 pm

  A6 was previously owned by close relatives, we took over few years ago. They were the original owners. They replaced the fuel pump and other components. We paid $700 for service. Since then the car has literally fallen apart. From 108k -117k miles, the driveshaft messed up, the transmission needs to be replaced, sparkplug wires are corroded, vacuum hoses are clogged, interior is falling apart, door handles and everything. Dealer wants $6300 for new trans. Even at discount, trans would still be worth more than the car. Car has poor resale value. I despise this car, I wish we never took over it. We took care of it, but it didnt help. Audis slogan is "Never Follow", trust me ... I wont!

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  Best luxury car for in its price - 1999 Audi A6
  By Sean - July 15 - 5:59 pm

  I really like the car. It is really nice when you are tired from work it gives you comfort and relaxation you need. I recommend it.

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  47,000 Miles My Last Audi ? - 2005 Audi A6
  By PGM - June 28 - 2:31 pm

  This is my second Audi, I had an A4 3.0 Quattro that I just loved. While I had several issues with the A4 (failed ignition coils & cam pulley came loose), I still decided to buy the A6. I have had nearly as many quality and dependability issues since purchased. The most disappointing is a hesitation upon first drive of the day. I gave the dealer 4 tries before contacting Audi US. Still not fixed, so I will get rid of it in the fall. This car is beautiful inside and out. It is very difficult to drive smoothly, the steering is overboosted. I have always wished you could dial it down using MMI, why not, it is electronic? Speaking of MMI, simple and works great.

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  Fantastic Performance Luxury Sedan - 2004 Audi A6
  By Noojin Walker - June 21 - 9:41 pm

  I have been a past BMW 5 Series driver, but this Audi A6, blows the BMW out of the water in terms of sheer performance and reliability!! No question about it! The Audi A6 acceleration is exceptionally quick, quicker than the BMW. The interior is more upscale and the appointments are more lavish and luxurious. I love the fact that there is both a CD player and a cassette player. I still have motivational tapes. There are plenty of extras: side pockets and compartments and five solid cup holders! Quality workmanship and great body and interior integrity.

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  Nice Looking and Roomy, but Problematic! - 2002 Audi A6
  By CSD - June 9 - 11:12 am

  Purchased the car brand new in 2002. Great looking car, and very roomy interior. However, car is extremely sluggish off the start. Acceleration can be jerky. Power windows have been a problem for me. My biggest pet peeve is the high maintenance/repair costs, as well as the frequency of repairs. I have similar issues as others, such as the instrument panel has pixel fade. Interior paint on climate control buttons have chipped.

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  Love this car! - 2005 Audi A6
  By KnappAttack - June 3 - 9:10 am

  This is my second Audi. First was a 2002 A6 2.7t which I really liked. This new A6 is even better. I was leaning towards the Infiniti M35x, tried one with 12,000 miles on it, Id rather keep my 2002 Audi. Im glad I found this 4.2. I immediately knew this was the car for me. I also tried the Acura RL and didnt think much of it. Nice car, just not as good as the Audi. Purchased mine used with the sport pkg, advanced key, bose stereo, navi, and cant say enough about it. Ill average around 22 actual MPG. Excellent mileage for a 335 HP V8. Were now going to purchase a A4 for my wife. Amazing car!