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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  Love the performance hate the brakes - 2000 Audi A6
  By DonK - July 8 - 2:00 am

  I have never had a car that was so enjoyable to drive. It loves the freeway and provides all the comforts I need. The controls are all where I expected them to be. (AC controls are a bit difficult to remember, but I set and forget.) The brakes warp easily and give a shuttering often. Dealer says this is par for the Audis since asbestos disappeared from the pads. Other maintenance items so far are average. I dont do lots of miles, so look for reviews by those who match your driving style.

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  Take care of it & itll take care of U - 1997 Audi A6
  By Bavariandream - July 2 - 2:00 am

  The A6 (C4 platform) is a great value, when purchased used. Mine is a high mileage car (127K) and it still runs and looks like (almost) new. Keep in mind that it needs some preventative care (not just the regular oil change) in order to keep it running flawlessly. Timing belt (yes belt, not a chain like most Beemers) need to be replaced every 60-75k. While doing this you should also replace the water pump, because itll break down at some point, and this will save you a lot of $$$$. Check and top off the differential/tansaxle fluids twice a year. Wear and tear repairs done: Front wheel bearing, front CV boot, timing belt and water pump, differential seal.

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  Audi A6 - 2004 Audi A6
  By vasovagal - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Sumptious interior, understated elegance, quiet cabin, powerful engine and solid smooth ride are the charastics of my A6. Build quality teutonic, I have no complaints. Dealer service is terrific the few times needed.

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  I like it I love it - 1998 Audi A6
  By Michael Zimmerman - June 22 - 2:00 am

  I am overwhelmed by my pre-owned A6. I cant find a thing wrong with it.

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  The Car I Thought I Always Wanted - 2001 Audi A6
  By Jesse - June 22 - 2:00 am

  The 2.7t in a word: amazing. Connection to the road: excellent. Cabin: very nice. As my lease comes to an end, I am pleased to say so long to my “dream car”. My problem? Maintenance! When the Audi Advantage plan ends prepare to pay. My car has spent weeks in the shop driver seat, dashboard lights, and brake pads all replaced. Plastic pieces broken turbo pieces cracked and it seems both the check engine or airbag light is on. The newest problem is sounding like a serious suspension problem. These problems could be attributed to demanding driving, but most of the time this car is simply a commuter. Choose this car be advised of a high maintenance bill!

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  over priced - 2004 Audi A6
  By woops - June 18 - 2:00 am

  My 2001 has had no major but many, many problems. Broken sunvisor, 3 blowers, many caliper problems. It is comparable in quality to my 92 Taurus but for twice as much. Without a warranty it is not a keeper. Simply it is a good looking problem machine.

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  Best yet - 2001 Audi A6
  By Alix - June 16 - 2:00 am

  Last 3 years I had a lexus GS300 BMW 330 and now this, this is the yet. and I will get a 2005 for my wife next year.

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  Best on market, get one while you can! - 2004 Audi A6
  By I75AVANT - June 8 - 2:00 am

  Prior auto was 2001 A6 2.8 Front Track "Celebration Package" - It was entry level but got me in the door. Was impressed by warranty support. My lease was up and my 2004 Avant was sitting on the lot - it was meant to be. Quattro is AMAZING! I found myself in the left lane being tailgated by a trucker - Tiptronic - from 75 to 85 in nothing flat to get myself out of a bad situation. The Michelins and Quattro were like rails. Needless to say, the best safety feature is a car capable of getting you out of a bad situation before it occurs.

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  BUY IT YOU WILL LOVE IT!!! - 2004 Audi A6
  By x-cpwrguy-99 - May 31 - 2:00 am

  My third Audi A6. They are the greatest. Love the warranty, looks, handling. What is not to like??

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  a previous BMW 5 series now an A6 2.7T - 2004 Audi A6
  By Shariff - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I was a prevoius BMW 5 sries owner. granted BMW is a good Brand. however, the A6 2.7 Bi turbo is a much overal car. the car handles a lot better in all weather. I owned the BMW for a long time I can honestly trll you that yes, is a matter of opinion, but for me was the actual driving experience and Yes, The the A6 is better. Shariff,M.D.