Introduction

Precision engineering, attention to detail and high levels of quality make the Audi A6 an excellent alternative to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series models. Audi buyers tend to be more on the cutting edge and more willing to be different and A6 delivers the goods. It stands out with its Bauhaus style. Most A6 models come with Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system giving them a major traction advantage over BMW and Mercedes models, most of which are rear-wheel drive. One of the most popular models, however, is the front-wheel-drive A6 3.0, which delivers a smooth ride, responsive performance, and a sumptuous interior. The A6 3.0 comes with Audi's latest V6 engine and its excellent CVT automatic, a smooth, responsive and efficient combination. It's fitted with traction control, anti-lock brakes, and Audi's superb safety engineering. At the other end of the spectrum is the new high-performance RS 6 with lightning-fast passing performance from a 450-horsepower twin-turbo V8. Punch it and the RS 6 delivers world-class performance, 0 to 60 in less than 4.6 seconds, Autobahn stability at triple-digit velocities. Even more impressive: It motors around town with the smooth ride and easy demeanor of a refined luxury car. In between is a host of models that are a joy to drive, including the sporty 2.7 T and the powerful 4.2. They all share crisp steering and finely honed handling. All come with beautifully finished and highly functional interiors. Avant wagons offer cargo capacity with sports sedan handling and a luxurious ride. There isn't a dog in the bunch, so choosing one comes down to personal preferences.

Walkaround

The Audi A6 is a handsome car, its rounded forms coherent and harmonious, the parts melding into the whole. There was a clear and consistent vision in the design of the A6, apparent in the curve of its hood line, the sculpting of the tail and the arch of its roofline. There's nothing that looks out of place. Even Audi's four-ring logo looks as if it were designed for this car. A close look at the Audi's exterior reveals the tight fit of panels and doors, contributing to a richer look and reduced wind noise. Dual exhaust tailpipes grace the rears of all A6 models, differing for each. The taillights have cylindrical back-up lights and turn signals with red outer lenses that flash amber. Up front the A6 has clear glass headlamps, with high-intensity Xenon headlamps optional on all A6 models. The RS 6 features a split grille with large intakes that feed the intercoolers. Brushed aluminum trim, a rear spoiler, a unique rear bumper, and oval exhaust ports distinguish it from other A6 models, but it's subtle. Most people won't notice, but enthusiasts will. It's available in bright red and blue colors, but several testers voted for the gray.

Interior Features

The interior of the base A6 is sumptuous and worthy of this class of automobile. Not only are the shapes pleasing to the eye, everything touchable feels like it belongs in a luxury-class car. Everything looks and feels like high quality. The front seats of the A6 3.0 are well cushioned, but not deeply bolstered. Non-sporting drivers will prefer these seats, as they provide all the lateral retention they'll need for comfortable everyday driving while not requiring a climb over the side bolsters. There's lots of headroom, but the tallest drivers may find it has less legroom than the E-Class. Rear headrests, especially the center, impede rearward vision somewhat. The outside mirrors are on the small side, but larger than those on the E-Class. The rear seat is contoured for two, though it will accommodate three adults even if cross-country trips would result in more intimacy than usually desired. There's plenty of rear legroom and headroom, though the rear seat bottom could use a little more support in the center. The dash is well laid out, with controls that are easy to operate. Driver and passenger can set their own temperature. The sound system is easy to operate. Wood is tastefully used on the dash, center console, and door panels. Instruments are white-on-black in daylight, but at night illuminate in a jet-fighter cockpit red. It looks high-tech, and is theoretically better for night vision. The A6 interior is a nice place to be and Audi's attention to detail is evident: Assist handles over the doors return softly when released. Front and rear seats have reading lights, and there are footwell lights front and rear as well. The door handles are also illuminated for easy nighttime exit, and a red LED light illuminates the center console area with a soft glow. Two cup holders are provided, both clever designs that take up minimum space and work well for standard drink cans. A small flip-down armrest holds a small cell phone, but there's not much cubby storage in the A6. The leather in the RS 6 is buttery soft. Padded leather door inserts are in a contrasting color and have just the right amount of gather. The roof liner in the RS 6 is one of the best we've ever seen, made of alcantara that continues down the insides of the A-pillars. The trunk is commodious and tall, with articulated hinges that don't enter the trunk itself: no more crushed grocery bags or wasted cargo space. With four cargo tie-downs and a cargo net, there's no reason for stuff to be rolling around the trunk. The rear seats are split 60/40 and fold down for additional cargo capacity.