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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  Cute and Diverse - 1998 Audi A6
  By Jeniver - December 10 - 12:15 am

  I love this car! Though I got this car used it was in good condition. It is a stylish piece of automotive niceness. It handles better then my other cars and speedy as well. It moves nicely, brakes great, and is very comfortable. Make sure you take yours to a person who knows Audis. I didnt and got a higher quote then if I went to the guy who did know what he was talking about.

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  so far so great - 2001 Audi A6
  By instanton - December 7 - 11:05 am

  We have the six-speed and there is no hint of turbo lag. I get 23+ mpg on combined city/highway driving (probably because I dont always drive like I have something to prove). Acceleration is amazing when needed, and the engine picks up anywhere from 1.5Krpm upwards in any gear. we got the sport suspension and sport wheels, which means I can go around corners practically with no braking. Saves wear and tear on the brakes and gives the kids a thrill :-). The stereo (Symphony) is excellent. Bought it used with 51K mi for less than 17K$. Try getting something with the feature set (Xenons, auto-dimming mirrors, power heated leather ...) in other brands for anything close.

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  Great Value - 2001 Audi A6
  By C - December 4 - 11:44 pm

  Very happy, great car all around. Only complaint would be that the suspension can is a bit soft for my liking when pushing it in the corners.

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  Sweet Ride - 2005 Audi A6
  By Dawgman - December 1 - 9:40 pm

  This is a beautiful car inside and out! I decided on the A6 over the Benz E-350 and BMW 525i. The interior is absolutely beautiful and comfortable. When youre in the drivers seat, it feels like youre in a cockpit of an airplane, but still very comfortable. The leg room in back is really comfortabe for any two adults, and can accomodate 3 children (as we have) fairly comfortable. I love the new exterior styling for 2005, it has a much sportier look. Audi has definitely caught up to M-B and BMW with car, and in my opinion have passed them, epecially since my car was about $8,000 less (with Quattro) than a comparably optioned M-B and BMW.

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  5th Audi and still loving them... - 2005 Audi A6
  By Jeff - November 27 - 12:08 pm

  This is my 5th Audi (93 100, 2000 A6, 2002 A6, 2004 A4 Cabriolet) and by far the best in performance, control and design. The lag many speak of, lessens after 3000 miles or so on the car. Minus a few dashboard squeaks and one airbag issue at delivery, this car is flawless. Audi has always been a standout among other German brands in term of quality, interior design and never blends in to the crowd of so many other boring vehicles. Being a loyal owner also means putting up with the little annoyances that you have to expect from Audi.

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  Great Car, Great Engine, Good Mileage - 2005 Audi A6
  By Robert Wang - November 26 - 7:47 am

  I bought an A6L which is more than 3.7 inches longer inside (only available in China). It comes with a 2 litre fsi turbo engine with 170hp and 280nm of torque from 1800 - 4200 rpm. with a 6 spd manual gearbox. Its a great car inside and out. The award winning engine is very responsive, good low end torque and efficient (30mpg), no turbo lag. It has great headroom and legroom. MMI is easy to use. Vision is good all round. Build quality is up there. Steering is quick and accurate as it is not as nose heavy as larger engines. Ride is comfortable. Its USD 22K cheaper than a BMW 525i so its no brainer. Very impressed. My 1st Audi.

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  A6 - 2005 Audi A6
  By Pierre Ricard - November 25 - 9:34 pm

  Its just fun to drive has perfect comfort, performance, safety, reliability and perfect styling. What more could you ask for.

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  Beautiful Car! - 2016 Audi A6
  By Lisa D - November 23 - 2:31 am

  I bought my 2016 Audi A6 Prestige with 12000 miles as an Audi Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle. The warranty is great and the original owner purchased the select care package (good for 4 years maintenance) which carried over to me! The car is one sweet ride! It looks fantastic, is sleek, quick, and loaded with tech sure to please the tech-savvy driver. Im very pleased with my deal and cant say enough about the customer experience at the Greenville, SC Audi dealership. I highly recommend this vehicle...its a blast to drive!

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  Comfortable, Quiet, Easy Handling, Fuel Efficient - 2017 Audi A6
  By Mink70 - November 22 - 1:19 pm

  There is no perfect car, but this one comes pretty close, with mostly "pluses" and just a few "cons." The only options I did not order on the Prestige Package were a Bang and Olufsen stereo, the $3300 comfort seat upgrade and night vision (The Prestige comes with 12-way ventilated seats). I also stuck with the stock 18" 245/45 all weather tires because of their higher profile. On the plus side are its stylish look in Florett Silver with Atlas Beige/Dark Walnut interior, great handling, extreme comfort, great temperature and direction controls, wonderful visibility, well-designed driver assistance, and great parking assist (easiest car I have ever parked beside the 2017 Q5). The virtual cockpit and heads up displays are easy to use, informative and very helpful. Its great having the Nav display directly in front of the driver. The transmission shifts smoothly, and for such a powerful car, it is surprisingly quiet when accelerating, and there is virtually no wind noise when cruising, The ECO start/stop was a little hard to get used to (abrupt stop), but I really like the fuel savings it affords around town. Speaking of fuel economy, I have been getting between 30-36 mpg on trips and averaging 25 mpg combined. FANTASTIC! I think the secret is that I allow the adaptive cruise to pretty much control the car on a trip. On the "con" side, the info system does take time to figure out. I spent over 2 hours with Audi Connect getting the AT&T SD card and navigation system reprogrammed, I am still learning the system. I wish all the information on the retractable Nav screen could be turned off so the entire screen displayed the route. I wish connection to the internet was included in the price like GM proposes to do on its new models. The garage door HomeLink was a bear to set. The salesman spent over an hour at my home setting it up, but it has worked well since being programmed. Dash glare is another "con." I had ordered the brown interior and dash trim with the expectation that dash glare would be reduced. NOT! My 2011 Volvo S80 had a similar colored dash that gave off almost no dash glare. Instead of using a grained glare-reducing material over the entire dash, Audi used hard plastic around the heads up display and other selected places which, in combination, produces a lot of reflection on the windshield. It apparently failed to engineer the windshield angle to reduce glare on the type of dash materials it chose to use. I also join others in expressing a desire that the car have a little more storage space in the front passenger compartment, but I have learned to do more with less junk in the cabin of the car. It is only these later "cons" that kept me from giving the car 5 stars overall. Its looks, its performance, its comfort, fuel economy, etc. all call for 5 stars. Because of some convenience issues, however, I could only give it 4 overall. (PS: The price for this category of car was in line with its competitors, and I thought the dealer treated me fairly considering the additional warranties that were included in the out-the-door price. Therefore, the price rating should be read as an N/A. It was not a factor in my ratings.)

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  great car - 2006 Audi A6
  By rick - November 22 - 9:50 am

  This is my 2nd A6. My 1st. one was great up to 40k then it started to have minor problems, so I leased the new one for 36 mos. This is a great car and fun to drive, handles well and has awesome pick-up. Interior is beautiful and has a lot of great standard equip. except for one item that was standard on my old A6 but not on the new A6, the Trip Computer. All of the auto research web sites say it is standard, but they are incorrect. I found that out the hard way after I bought the car. You have to spend $1000s in packages to get it. For some very strange reason Audi discontinued it as standard for 2006 A6. Even the owners manual has instructions on how to use it.