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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  I had a bad experience - 2003 Audi A6
  By Richard the 3rd - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I hope this gets through to some people, I have owned American cars most of my life and have had no issues up to now. I bought an Audi A6 in 2002 and since that time both the turbo and transmission have gone bad, I had issues with my tachometer staying accurate as well, anyone else have some defects like this?? Its just a hassle

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  Great Mix of Sport and Luxury - 2000 Audi A6
  By DanMarino - June 19 - 2:00 am

  This is a great ride that feels as though you are driving a sports car, although you a experiencing a quality luxurious ride. This car is put together well and is very smooth on the road.

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  The worst car ever created - 1999 Audi A6
  By Stevenam - June 18 - 2:00 am

  For the $40k this car cost, it should be reliable. Its not. 16 major problems and 22 minor ones in 4 years. I wish Id bought two $20k Mazdas instead. Ill never buy another Audi. EVER.

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  Best of both worlds - 2003 Audi A6
  By RPF - June 13 - 2:00 am

  A masterful blend of sport and luxury. Capable handling without a punishing ride. More than adequate power, albeit not as muscular as some other comparable offerings. Comfortable without the squishiness of domestic offerings. Proper use of technology for purpose and not just gee-whiz gadgets.

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  Sweet car! - 2003 Audi A6
  By bobdog7 - June 9 - 2:00 am

  The 4.2 is taut,firm yet very comfortable.Tossable around town,smooth and stable on highway.Got 4.2 sedan for my wife now I need to figure a way to get RS6 for me.

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  2003 A6T missing features - 2003 Audi A6
  By shanenolan2 - June 8 - 2:00 am

  Just a note to thise considering the 2003 Audi A6T. First , the multi function steering wheel that let you control the audio system is no longer offered on the Turbo A6T anymore. I guess safety is no longer important to Audi when it comes to driver distractions. I had this on the 2000 AT that I replaced and having seen it in all the brochures expected it in the 03 model.Quite disappointing. In addition, if you want a valet key for your luxury A6T you will have to order it for $65 and then take your car back to get it programmed. No longer standard equipment. Nice way to aggravate your loyal customers Audi!

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  VERY Satisfied - 2002 Audi A6
  By jsw - June 6 - 2:00 am

  I now have 9800 miles on my 2002 A6 4.2. It has performed flawlessly, and is as much fun to drive as the three Porsches Ive owned (in 70s and mid 80s). Its fast quiet beautifully designed interior interesting, German-type technical features (loaded with them!) and, in the mountains the Quattro is invaluable. Im running Dunlop Winter Sport M2s for Winter (Tire Rack purchase they stick like glue, in Boulder snowstorms and on ski trips, even on ice!) and the provided 185/40/17 Contis which were stock, and came with the car. Not a rattle in 10K miles. Dealer service impeccable. Id buy another one..

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  A sneaky hot rod - 2000 Audi A6
  By AspenRob - June 2 - 2:00 am

  This car is just plain fun to drive with more power/acceleration than youll ever need ... unless youre a serious racer.

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  A6 Nice Daily Driver - 1996 Audi A6
  By MissmyAudiGT - May 31 - 2:00 am

  Nice daily driver / commuter car. Nice steady feel, similar to much heavier & larger 96 BMW 740i (except less power). Although car was purchased w/ 87K mi, still performs as new. Excellent acceleration response between 50 - 85 mph range.

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  Waiting for the Other Shoe to Drop - 1999 Audi A6
  By Pmontero - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Relatively pain-free an absolute joy to drive. Originally a SoCal car, now in Michigan, the quattro has impressed. Fuel sending unit recall early on, expecting more trouble never had it. Only other odd thing: Rear pads lasting about half as long as fronts and the rotors not being "turn-able" despite catching pads early. My Jetta VR6 is MUCH more problematic Doubt Ill buy A6 after lease is up 7/03 just for fear of what Ill be up for. Oh, yeah. Leatherette interior, no seat heaters, no BOSE, no moonroof makes this cars residual a joke (but original deal bettered V70).