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:

• 

  Great car -- for the money - 2002 Audi A6
  By Sheldon - August 9 - 2:00 am

  This is a really great car. Its a hoot to drive, its fast, it looks hot, the quality is top-notch. Its worth another $10k (but Audis reputation cant support it) -- and it beats everything else in its class. And keep in mind, Ive owned BMWs, Porsches, and M-Bs. The Quattro is smooth. The turbos scream. Ive got the Sport Package -- and Im glad I do. Steering is a little vague not enough road feel. And...watch out for the front bumper. Its very low (for a sedan). You dont want to hook it on a parking stop.

• 

  A Dream vs. 528i - 2003 Audi A6
  By gjs - August 6 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Audi, prior I had a 98 BMW 528i and traded it in for the A6 2.7T. Hands down the A6 is a more enjoyable car. Steering is a wonderful, and the power is un- matched. As long as the car holds up, Im sold on Audi. I really liked the BMW, however now I can take this car to the mountains without a worry. Love it.

• 

  Quick car! - 2003 Audi A6
  By Kevinh - August 6 - 2:00 am

  The engine in this car is awesome. Its going to get me in trouble with speeding. it seems like it keeps pulling even at top highway speeds. The interior fit and finish is great

• 

  One cool car - 1999 Audi A6
  By DocBranch - August 5 - 2:00 am

  After four years of owning my A6 I still love it and people still take notice. Its understated, subtle and classy. The Black w/ Black interior really sets off the instrument panel. On the interstate I can run as fast as my hear will stand it even though its a 6cyl. I cant see buying any other but another one of these.

• 

  Audi A6 a bad experience - 2002 Audi A6
  By sadaudiowner - August 5 - 2:00 am

  I have owned the car for 42 days and it has been at the dealership with five problems for 21 days of the 42 days I have owned it. The malfunction light came on twice (catalytic conv. & purge valve), windshield fluid canister, unable to turn key even after forcing wheel, alarm goes off randomly, they have no idea why!!

• 

  Smooth German Machine - 1997 Audi A6
  By Jorgen - August 4 - 2:00 am

  This car performs amazing well in all types of weather. I can see why people love Audis so much. Just when you think that youre going to lose it in a snow or rain storm, the quattro system comes to the rescue. I will never go back to a rear or front wheel drive car again. Power is decent for a car of this size (but if you want a real rocket, look for the S6 version of this car [1995 model year]). The interior is first class and the body is vault solid.

• 

  What a car! - 2002 Audi A6
  By Shauvin - August 3 - 2:00 am

  Wow! I was looking for something sporty and comfortable that could handle the miserable inland NW snow and ice. This babys the ticket! Unbelievable power and great braking. Extremely efficient cliamte control and great heated seats. Handles like a charm no matter how bad the roads are. Audi has come a long way from the old garage crashers and this car is the proof (I still hear the jokes though.) Acceleration is a little herky jerky (but once the turbos kick in, hang on!) The brakes are a little grabby too, but you get used to it.

• 

  almost bought the 530i - 2003 Audi A6
  By RoverChris - August 2 - 2:00 am

  I came "this close" to buying the 530i, but the lease number was too high...so I went and drove the audi just to make me feel better about paying more for the 530....but once behind the wheel, I fell in love with the car (a quatro 2.7T). It has more and better features, is more comfortable, is definitely faster and more responsive, and is priced LOWER. My lease price was nearly $100 less/month in the audi than in the 530. I also like that the body style is new rather than changing. It probably doesnt have the status of the BMW, but its close. Go drive one, youll love it.

• 

  great car - 2003 Audi A6
  By veilside350 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  My father just bought a 2003 Audi a6 2.7 biturbo. the car is supurb to almos any other vehicle in its class and price range. We got the premium version with On star, it has been very helpfuul in times because there are time were your cellphone doesnt have service and On star comes in handy. Also if there is an emergency just click the utton and help is on it way.

• 

  A6 Lovely but risky - 1999 Audi A6
  By A6Driver - July 31 - 2:00 am

  I love my A6 Avant in most repects. I can throw my two dogs in the back and go camping or enjoy the twisty canyon roads with the steptronic transmission. I love the interior, the sound system, the looks and the refined engine /transmission combination. All I ask is that the car hold together over the long term. I bought it with 36,000 miles and 2,000 miles later it is in the shop having a clunk in the front suspension looked at. The brakes are also being scrutinized as they have begun to squeal. The air conditioning works well but sounds like a giant vacuum cleaner. I recommend the Audiworld website.