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 review - 2006 Audi A6
  By PA guy - September 15 - 10:02 pm

  My second A6. Mix of great things and some annoyances. Biggest issue is steering wheel which doesnt align straight when car is going straight. Not fixable because of the design and quite irritating when driving. Lower drivers seat cushion doesnt move much so for some average size folks not a comfortable position. Also the impeccable interior design of the last generation A6 design drops with absence of single CD capability, usable second cup holder and airbag and door lock lights that are very bright. Goodies two: Navigation is very easy. Automatic electronic key is far nicer than you would guess. Great trunk with quality folding seats.

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  LOVE my A6 - 2006 Audi A6
  By J G - September 11 - 12:54 am

  After being in american made vehicles for over a decade, I am in love with my A6. My wifes car is grossly under her leased mileage, but I still find myself taking my new A6 everywhere we go. I drive a lot for work, and I am actually in better moods at work and after work due to the fun driving experience of the A6. I recommend this car to anyone looking for a mid-size sedan.

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  My 3rd Audi and still satisfying - 2005 Audi A6
  By CK - September 8 - 4:10 pm

  This is my 3rd Audi A6 - 1999, 2003 and now 2005. What a car! Simply gorgeous to look at, both from inside and outside. MMI is a great feature. Ive compared with BMWs I-drive (what a joke!) and its simply beyond comparison. Other owners have noted the hesitation on 1st & 2nd gears and I have notice that as well. I wonder why Audi decided to part with CVT. Simply best exterior and interior design, great sound system and absolute joy to drive on winding roads. Looking forward to more Audis in the future.

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  You wont be dissappointed, maybe! - 1999 Audi A6
  By Ole Car Dog - September 7 - 3:36 pm

  I sold cars for many years and owned lots of vehicles. I decided that I wanted an Audi cause of the space, smooth ride and AWD. The Audi REALLY DELIVERED!! I bought used cause I couldnt afford new but I expected problems... but there werent many. The headlight washer didnt work, a few turn signals freaked out and the power lumbar doesnt work either but the car runs great. I fixed a few things myself (no need to see a mechanic). The power is average but there are accessory parts to increase power. This vehicle is fun in the sun and great, reliable in the snow! I plan on owning it for many years to come!!

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  Problematic - 2001 Audi A6
  By Kathy - September 6 - 12:22 am

  My Audi A6 looks beautiful, but this is probably the worst car I have ever had and this includes a used 1973 chevy monte carlo I bought for $250 when a freshman in college. If you buy this car, be prepared to spend a lot of money for part replacements and repairs. Just when you think youve seen everything, this car surprises you with an unthinkable issue. My advise .... buy something else....

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  Excellent Value - 2006 Audi A6
  By Mark N - September 1 - 1:58 pm

  Excellent value for the amount of car you get. Very sleek elegant styling compared to the boxy looks of the Mercedes Benz and BMW equivalents. Interior is roomy and comfortable especially for those that are taller than average. First time I had a car where I do not have to push the seat all the back for leg comfort. Get the Sport Package as the car performs and responds much better with it and is more than reasonably priced for what you get in return.

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  45000 miles in FIVE months! - 2000 Audi A6
  By Bobby - August 28 - 10:56 pm

  I bought my pearl white A6 in February of this year with 67,000 miles and I should be breaking the 90,000 mile mark before the end of this month (Aug). Aside from two pretty costly repairs: ABS controller and Thermostat replacement Im delighted with this vehicle and cant wait to let this Quattro loose in the ice and snow in a few more months. Thats is what the world-renowned "Quattro" AWD was engineered to do and a superior job it has done, to say the least. Keep all four turning, everyone!

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  2005 Audi A6 4.2 - 2005 Audi A6
  By gwagnerli - August 28 - 9:55 am

  Took delivery of 2005 A6 4.2 last fall. To date, there has not been one problem. The sport suspension is quite stiff with the 40 series tires. The engine is strong. My mileage is a mixture of highway city averages about 22 MPG every week.

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  Better than BMW - 2002 Audi A6
  By Kendall - August 25 - 3:27 am

  A great German luxury car for those with the urge to be different. I am guilty of owning boring BMWs for much of my driving life but have found more style and comfort with Audi. These 3 years have produced far more driving pleasure with routine maintenance absolutely no repair bills. This car has truly unique styling that is not boring and conformist (or just plain ugly) like many BMW and Mercedes models. We get lots of compliments on this car whether people are riding in it or just looking at it.

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  Would buy again - 2006 Audi A6
  By Colleen - August 20 - 6:21 pm

  I wish a little bit more on the take-off, other than that I love this car its a lot of fun to drive. I also like being able to switch between auto and manual shifting.