UNVEILED – Its Audi of America, A6 2009 – unveiled with its clean lines and oversized grille, the current Audi A6 is one of the most distinctive midsize luxury cars on the market. It’s available as both a sedan and a wagon. The A6 wagon — called the Avant – with a 34-cubic-foot cargo bay behind its rear seat, it makes a practical yet elegant choice for families. In true Audi fashion, the midsize A6 gives you a lot for a very competitive price.
Those who purchase the A6 sedan may choose between two trims: base 3.2 and top-of-the-line 4.2. Wagons are available only in the 3.2 trim. Standard equipment is generous, and as we’ve come to expect from Audi, the A6’s interior is - quite attractive - quality standard. The options lineup includes a high-end audio system, voice-activated navigation system and Bluetooth phone connectivity. Most are accessed via Audi’s easy-to-use Multi Media Interface (MMI) vehicle management system. It sounds complicated, but with its logical menus and ergonomically designed, all-in-one control knob, MMI is relatively easy to learn.
Talking about performance now, the Audi A6 is available with either a 255-horsepower V6 or a 350-hp V8 engine. Acceleration is certainly passable, but most other V6-equipped luxury cars are quicker. The A6 rides comfortably on the highway, and while it’s not the most athletic car in its class, our editors like its predictable, nimble feel through the corners. As far as transmissions go, both a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a six-speed automatic are offered. The A6 may be equipped with either front-wheel drive or Audi’s Quattro system.
