EDMUNDS.COM 2004 AUDI A6
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| Editors'' Review |
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Solid performance and an elegant cabin design make the A6 a worthy competitor in the luxury sedan class, but BMW''s 5 Series is more athletic and Mercedes carries more brand cachet, so it can''t be called a class leader just yet.
Pros
Heavenly cabin furnishings, varied menu of engines, all-wheel-drive utility.
Cons
Nonlinear steering, limited availability of manual transmission.
What''s New for 2004
A sport mode is added to the "multitronic" CVT, the center console''s retractable cup holder is replaced by a power point and all quattro models now come standard with a sunroof.
Overview
Introduction:
Introduced for the 1998 model year, the A6 is a midsize luxury car based on a stretched version of the previous-generation A4 platform. It''s about the size of the Volkswagen Passat, and indeed its exterior body lines are evocative of the general shape of VW''s family car. However, the A6 reaches out to a different audience, a wealthier audience (though the arrival of the Passat W8 has somewhat muddled this distinction), and as such, each one is beautifully furnished with Audi-grade trimmings, including gorgeous wood that''s sure to remind you of lush forestland.In addition, Audi offers a varied engine lineup -- a 220-horsepower, 3.0-liter V6; a spirited 250-hp, twin-turbo, 2.7-liter V6; and a 300-hp, 4.2-liter V8. Although those wanting a serious indulgence will likely gravitate toward the torque-rich 4.2 and its premium leather upholstery, the twin-turbo V6 is actually the faster of the two, owing to the lighter weight of sedans so equipped. The A6 Avant, or wagon, is only available with the 3.0-liter V6, which provides merely adequate acceleration in this class. We would encourage interested buyers to compare the similarly priced Passat W8 wagon (if they can give up a bit of luxury) or consider a move up to the Audi allroad or S6 Avant (of course, BMW makes a pretty good wagon, as well). The quattro all-wheel-drive system comes with all models, though you can get a front-wheel-drive version of the sedan, which comes with a continuously variable transmission. Although the A6 is scheduled for a redesign next year, the current lineup still has something to offer buyers who crave luxury (no one beats Audi in this area) and like the idea of owning an all-weather vehicle. If you''re more interested in a sporting ride, you''d do well to check out the high-performance S6 wagon, the even higher-performance RS6 sedan, BMW''s 5 Series or even the recently redesigned Mercedes-Benz E-Class, as the A6 doesn''t have the perfectly weighted steering and taut suspension that serious enthusiasts require.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The A6 is sold in three trim levels -- 3.0, 2.7T and 4.2 -- which correspond to the engine found under the hood. Standard features on the 3.0 include 16-inch wheels, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, dual-zone climate control, one-touch windows, a sunroof (quattro models only), 12-way power front seats and an eight-speaker sound system with an in-dash CD changer. The 2.7T adds 17-inch wheels with high-performance tires and a sport-tuned suspension. You''ll have to spring for the sport package to get a firmer suspension and bigger wheels with your 4.2; otherwise, the V8-powered, top-of-the-line model comes with premium leather upholstery and memory for the driver seat and mirrors. The options list includes a premium package with popular items like auto-dimming mirrors, HID headlights, a 200-watt Bose sound system, parking sensors and a navigation system.
Powertrains and Performance:
A6 buyers have several drivetrain choices. A 3.0-liter V6 brews up 220 horsepower in the base sedan and wagon. On the front-wheel-drive sedan, the V6 comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), dubbed Multitronic, while 3.0 quattro sedans and wagons get a five-speed automatic with Tiptronic. Next up is the 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, which pumps out 250 hp and 258 pound-feet of torque. Despite its position in the middle of the lineup, the 2.7T is actually the fastest A6 and would be our choice. It''s also the only model that can be had with a manual gearbox -- in this case, a six-speed; the five-speed automatic is also available. The top-line engine is a 4.2-liter V8 that makes 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. While it is less intense than the 2.7T, some may prefer its smoother power delivery. Standard on all models (except the front-drive sedan), the quattro all-wheel-drive system is constantly on watch. When any of the tires starts to lose traction, it automatically redirects power to compensate.
Safety:
Audi''s stability control system (ESP) is standard across the lineup and helps drivers steer their way out of potential skids. Besides that, every A6 includes side airbags for front occupants and a head curtain system for the front and rear; rear side airbags are optional. The A6 earned an "Acceptable" rating from the IIHS in the 40-mph offset crash test.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The A6 offers one of the best interiors in its price class. Besides offering standard leather and wood inlays, each cabin is filled with supple, high-quality materials. If you bought an A6 for the sake of luxury alone, you wouldn''t be disappointed. All cars have a split-folding rear seat, though the 3.0 Avant offers added utility with its 36.4 cubic feet of luggage capacity.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
While its steering and suspension can''t match the acuity of BMW 5 Series underpinnings, the A6 does provide an excellent ride around town and predictable handling on twistier pavement. Additionally, its quattro system affords it prodigious grip around turns that makes spirited driving that much more fun. Throw in the variable of winter weather, and the A6 will outdo any rear-drive rival.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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