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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  A6 4.2 - A Blast to Drive! - 2007 Audi A6
  By TC - May 19 - 10:12 am

  Ive driven Acuras for 15 years (Vigor, TL) and loved them. My new 2007 A6 4.2 is my first German car, and I love it. I wanted a 4WD vehicle with large engine and room to fit my bike. I started looking at the BMW X5, Acura RL and MDX, and the Lexus RX. I liked the X5 a lot, but really preferred a sedan. When I discovered the A6 had 350 hp, beautiful interior, and an enormous trunk, I was in. My test drive sealed the deal. Ive had the car for 6 weeks and 1,400 mi, and am loving every minute. Its fun to drive with tons of power and lots of class. Im sure Ill feel some pain in the wallet for service, but Audis service contract eases that a bit. A big thumbs-up for Audi!

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  My A6 - 2007 Audi A6
  By Jim Connell - May 13 - 6:12 pm

  I have had this car for 3 months and 2100 miles, city and highway driving. It is easy to maneuver, solid in good and bad weather, very comfortable and very stylish. The MMI has become second nature and is really a lot of fun. The car has computer power that exceeds many desktops.

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  Great Ride - 2005 Audi A6
  By QT - May 10 - 8:56 pm

  My husband and I were originally looking at the 540i and decided on a whim to go to Audi in which we found we got more options for the same price. The ride if smooth and comfortable. The car itself is a lot bigger than expected.

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  Love the Car but Repairs are Too Costly - 2000 Audi A6
  By Jenn - April 29 - 9:01 am

  Overall I am grateful for the exceptional handling, especially fantastic in snow, but the expensive parts and repairs after ~70k miles have me disappointed in the long term value of this car. Just before the extended warranty ran out, I had the AM radio fixed (it had never worked). When I picked up the car I found that the warranty company had paid about $1,000 for that repair alone. Since then Ive been spending about $1.5k - 3k every six months on repairs. As noted in other reviews, CD player failed and LCD panel faded at about 80k. The cup holders are flawed. I also no longer run back to the dealer to pay $110 for diagnosing the Check Engine Light that comes on every 2-3 months.

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  Great Car - back it up - 2006 Audi A6
  By Jim - April 23 - 10:32 pm

  Have a 2000 A6 Quattro. Still runs great - love the car. Good thing for the warranty though as rotors and brakes went early. Bought a 2006 3.2 quattro .Dealer told me the "only change in warranty was that wiper blades were only warrantied for 1 year". Guess what, six months later blades are shot & local dealer tells me they are no longer covered and it will cost me $50 to replace. Had some electrical surprises - audio shutting off, no way to turn back on unless battery is disconnected & reconnected. Worse, my left front headlamp leaks & fogs. When I made an appointment to have it fixed, they did not "see" it so I now have to wait for it to happen again.

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  A great car! - 2005 Audi A6
  By liferules - April 22 - 9:33 pm

  Im on my 500th mile now and am still very happy with my decision to purchase this C6 Audi. What a peppy ride! Especially in the sport or tiptronic modes. The outside appearance is very stylish yet sophisticated IMO. The interior is elegant and comfortable. Both driver and passenger seats are 12-way. The sound system (Bose) is phenominal...better than home! The MMI is easy to use, and the steering wheel controls make it even easier. I have the keyless and nav, both of which I am more than impressed with. Overall, a very nice, quality ride. The "thunk" of the door closing reflects the quality of build.

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  A Must Drive - 2007 Audi A6
  By longdriver - April 7 - 4:02 pm

  Excellent design inside and out (understated class). At home at the market or country club. Fit and finish is incredible. The 18" wheels look the best and are surprisingly smooth on the road. Would encourage wheel insurance though as theyre easy to nick and scuff. Interior screams luxury - well appointed and roomy. MMI control is much easier to learn than critics say.Upgraded Bose audio is concert hall quality with the surround sound selection. Bluetooth works like a dream. Adaptive headlights are very bright. Good acceleration and braking. Quattro AWD gives excellent handling. Tight turning radius for a big car. Trunk is deep and the back seats fold down (!) easily holding golf bags.

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  What a Blast - 2000 Audi A6
  By gjohnson - April 7 - 10:00 am

  I just finished my 1st winter with the 2.7T. This car is a blast to drive in the snow and ice. It is balanced extreamly well. Add to that the power and a 6 speed and it is a great combination for fun winter driving. Ive had a few minor mechanical problems early on. These were solved quickly by the dealer. After owning a 5 series BMW and then the Audi, I will definalty get another Audi.

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  Not the newest German mid size but still great - 2017 Audi A6
  By Chicago Mark - March 26 - 4:11 pm

  Looked at the 2016 BMW 5 series and the latest Mercedes E class (4 cylinder model). Ruled out the new 5 series for fear of 1st model year run reliability woes and the 6 cylinder E class is just too expensive. Just loved the ride and handling of the A6, its the right combination of sport and luxury. Plus this is the only German midsize you can order with REAR side airbags and of course outstanding crash testing. The ride and handling are outstanding. Some formal car magazine reviews had stated the steering is numb or light but I do not have that impression. The V6 gives you power whenever you want. I purchased a factory order Premium Plus with 19" sport package and the layered walnut. The 19" wheels ride well without added harshness and the 10 spoke wheels look stunning when paired with Florett Silver body color. The black headliner with black leather and layered walnut wood option make the cabin exceptionally rich. The MMI interface doesnt take that long to figure out. Voice commands are a little slow but the map with google earth view is pretty cool. The instrument cluster driver display can be customized to show different driver info and is nearly the equal of the newer cars that have the all digital display for the driver instrument panel. The Bose stereo is good but not great (and wasnt going to cough up $4200 for the Bang and Olufsen upgrade). Drivers assistance package work very well especially the adaptive cruise control keeping distance from the car ahead of you and lane assist keeping you in the lane. Yes its the oldest of the German luxury mid sized sedans in terms of this version, but it stacks up well to the competition. I love it and have NO regrets buying it.

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  Wonderful Car - 2005 Audi A6
  By Lyndon Krans - March 25 - 8:51 pm

  Absolutely fun to drive. Handles very well and has excellent gas mileage for the size and horsepower of the vehicle. No problems with the car except for trunk latch had to be replaced. Exterior and interior designs are the best I have seen. A wonderful car to travel in... little driver fatigue on long trips as it is very comfortable to sit in.