2010 Audi A6

The 2010 Audi A6 ranks 5 out of 13 luxury large cars. This ranking is based on the analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A6, and the analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Audi A6 combines exceptional performance with one of the finest interiors offered in the Large Luxury Car class.

The Audi A6 tends to trail behind the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class in terms of sales but that could be a sign that people are missing out on a very capable car.

The Audi A6 has one of the nicest interiors available, even at its price. It's also a fine performer.

The A6 received a design refresh for 2009, so little has changed for 2010.

The key to the A6's appeal is the optional Quattro All-Wheel-Drive Sstem. some people say that, without Quattro, it doesn't handle as well as some competitors; but with Quattro, it's the almost the equal of the BMW 5-series. The A6 also outclasses the BMW, and many other rivals, with its well-designed passenger cabin(especially the cocoa leather).

Just as the optional AWD system makes a dramatic difference in the car's performance, a buyer's choice of engine can radically change the character of this car. Buyers are particularly impressed with the available 3.0-liter supercharged V6, which offers smooth power delivery and accelerates like a V8, but offers the fuel economy of a V6.

Other Competitors

The obvious rivals to the A6 are the other German large luxury sedans. The BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan are both available with All-Wheel-Drive, at similar prices, and each offers another take on luxurious performance that might attract A6 admirers.

Details

The A6 comes in 3.0, 3.2 or 4.2 trim, each named for its engine. The famed Quattro all-wheel drive system is available on 3.2 models and standard on 4.2 and 3.0 supercharged models. A wagon model, the A6 Avant, is offered, but only with the 3.0-liter engine and Quattro system.

Acceleration

The A6 3.2 features a 3.1-liter V6 making 255 horsepower. 4.2 models have a 4.2-liter V8 that puts out 350 hp. Drivers, however, say the sweet spot is inbetween the two -- an available 3.0-liter V6 with a supercharger makes 300 horsepower, but is nearly as quick as the V8. The V6 is an adequate choice for most buyers but doesn't place the car near the top of its class. The V8 is much stronger. The 3.2 front-wheel-drive sedan uses a continuously variable transmission without true gears, while all other models use a six-speed automatic transmission.

Handling

Few drivers test the Audi A6 without its optional Quattro All-Wheel-Drive system. But then, few buyers consider the car without it -- Audi says that more than 80 percent of A6 buyers tick the box for Quattro. Without it, the A6 in 3.2 front-wheel drive trim is a competent handler, but easily outclassed by its major German rivals. With the Quattro system, it can nearly hang with the BMW 5-Series and similar performance-oriented large cars. An adjustable suspension only adds to the car's ability to tackle winding roads.