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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  Worth the wait - 2006 Audi A6
  By John F - July 22 - 9:46 pm

  I had to wait several months for my 06 A6 S-Line to arrive as 4.2 S-lines are few and far between. This is my 3rd Audi and this new A6 has exceeded my expectations. I used to drive an E500, but this is so much better. The first response from the accelerator is a bit soft. But, if you step on it - it moves! Build quality and interior design and technology are the best in ANY car I have seen.

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  3rd Audi & love this the best by far - 2005 Audi A6
  By Rich - July 21 - 8:07 pm

  Wanted an 04 A8L and "settled" for an 05 A6 and Im very glad I did. Black/Amaretto combo is beautiful and the interior looks (and acts) nearly as big as an A8 ... but not quite. Great highway cruiser!

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  Great car - 2001 Audi A6
  By Chris Rich - July 19 - 12:01 pm

  I bought this used 2001 A6 2.7T with the sport package this year after my 2000 A6 2.7 (without sport package) was totaled out. Both cars are very similar, but if you are a driving enthusiast, I highly recommend the sport package, which gives you larger wheels and stiffer suspension. It is a great car with lots of room. I love the Quattro in winter (here in Wisconsin).

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  A new Audi fan! - 2005 Audi A6
  By NewAudiFan - July 17 - 12:25 am

  I was in the market for a new mid-size luxury car: as others who have posted, I had my mind set on a BMW 5 series. I had a friend recommend I take a look at the A6 before purchasing my BMW and Im glad I did. From its supple luxurious interior to the many gadgets (advanced key, MMI and Bluetooth capability), this car has truly been everything IÂ’ve ever wanted in a car (and more). After performing extensive research, I found that the A6 was definitely the best car for the money, particularly when a comparably equipped BMW 5 series and Mercedes Benz E-class could easily cost you an extra $7 - $10k.

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  A6 S-type...Hot - 2004 Audi A6
  By Rob Rockwell - July 12 - 1:28 pm

  Extra horsepower is noticable. Rides on rails. Excellent in all road conditions. One of the best temp control systems in the automotive world. Hot/cold very quickly. Makes you grin when you push it.

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  Great fun - but poor reliability - 2001 Audi A6
  By pleasanton10 - July 6 - 1:39 am

  This is the last in a senies of Audis Ive owned since an A4 2.8 Q in 1998. Since then theres been an 2001 Audi TT Roadster, a 2001 S4 and a 2004 S4. While I love the comfort and the handling (I have the sports pkg on the A6 4.2), the reliability has been absymal (its been at the dealership every month this calendar year - in addition to regular maintenance). Its a love-hate. I love the speed, acceleration, handling, comfort, styling and with snow tires its GREAT on snow. But I cant afford the maintenance ($800 to replace the rear sunshade last month - ouch!)

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  no more audis for me! - 2000 Audi A6
  By unhappyA6 - July 5 - 4:24 pm

  Engine light on/off when wind blows. LCD display fades to back.Changed tire arms twice. Leaks oil. Bottoms out over parking stops/entrance ramps. Im going back to Acura!

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  Audi A6, Awesome Car - 2005 Audi A6
  By jerri - July 4 - 8:28 am

  Ive owned my car 3 mos and Ive never been more pleased with any car before. Lots of power, sure-footed as a cat, sexy lines, smooth as silk, fabulously rich interior, and a head turner. What more can I say I havent gotten this much car attention since my Plymouth Prowler. And Ive had 2 M/Bnzs, a Jag, a Lexus, 2 BMWs, a Vette, a Miata and a few pick-ups & SUVs. I sorta wish Id gotten the 4.2 V8, but decided the 3.2 V6 was powerful enough. Besides, I could spend the extra $9k on a cruise and some clothes. My car is one major conversation piece. If you really check it out, you to will love it and become an AUDIPHILE.

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  Not the German quality I was sold - 1999 Audi A6
  By WW Jr - July 3 - 7:16 pm

  Big bucks lemon! Good ride and comfort, but has the same quality as my 1982 Pontiac 6000 . Back then even GM treated me better with problems then my dealer or contacting Audi direct. Dozens of small items broke, from washer covers, window switches (3xs times), front bumper cover, digital dashboard, front axel, tranny leaks, engine leaks (which they wouldnt acknowledge until the warranty was over) to final disgrace when the air bags failed to work when I totaled it. 4 days before I was to trade this nightmare in at a LOST - as the resale value also is horrible! Dont believe the German quality myth.

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  lemon law lawsuit - 2003 Audi A6
  By yahoo1978 - July 1 - 11:06 pm

  My reliability experience with this car was terrible. Nearly 40 days in the shop in the first 12 months I owned it, and practically every problem was related to electrical issues. Audis willingness to resolve the problem was terrible, and the dealer was of no help. I ultimately was forced to file suit under our state lemon laws. After 9 months of legal process, I prevailed under the state law and was reimbursed accordingly. My new Mercedes 4matic is far more comfortable and more reliable. It drives just as sporty, if not better, and turns heads too.