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2017 Audi A6

Starting at $48,550

9/10 C/D RATING
Specs
2017 audi a6 driving
Michael Simari|Car and Driver
9/10 C/D RATING

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  • Highs Powerful turbocharged V-6 option, premium interior fit and finish, all the latest tech features.
  • Lows Bland styling, minimal steering feedback, underwhelming interior storage space.
  • Verdict The A6 doesn't shout cutting-edge style, but it acquits itself well on a twisty road while pampering occupants in a comfy, well-appointed cabin.

Overview

A well-rounded nature makes the Audi A6 a favorite here at Car and Driver and helps it find a place in driveways across the country. This conservatively styled mid-size sedan blends driving pleasure, luxury-car comfort, great build quality, and on-road prestige better than most of its rivals. With two different powertrains available, the A6’s performance ranges from mild to zesty, and a host of comfort, convenience, and active safety features help it maintain its place among more modern offerings from its European competitors.

What's New for 2017?

A number of exterior styling enhancements keep the A6 looking fresh. A Driver Assistance package includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlamps, automated emergency braking, and a 360-degree exterior camera system. The big news for 2017 is the addition of the Competition Prestige model, which gets a 340-horsepower version of the supercharged 3.0-liter V-6, as well as a sport-tuned suspension, red-painted brake calipers, and a number of interior upgrades.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

  • Premium: $48,550
  • Premium Plus: $52,550
  • Prestige: $62,550
  • Competition Prestige: $68,550

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

A6 buyers get the choice of the base 252-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional 333-hp supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 that bulks up to 340 hp in the Competition Prestige model. Front-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic transmission are standard with the four-cylinder, and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system is available as an option, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. All V-6-powered models come with all-wheel drive and the eight-speed automatic. The turbo four provides plenty of pep, especially once the turbocharger kicks in. It’s quite smooth in operation but sounds uninspired. The V-6, on the other hand, sounds throaty and is genuinely quick. Encounter a twisty section of road, and the A6 is a driver’s delight. It’s agile, no matter the trim level, and still manages a civilized ride. Its suspension keeps body roll in check easily in high-speed corners, but its steering wheel broadcasts precious little information from the front wheels. Still, the A6, especially with Quattro all-wheel drive, is predictable and easy to drive quickly on twisty stretches of road.

2017 audi a6 sedan parked near a buildingView Photos
Michael Simari|Car and Driver

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Despite not having been updated since the 2012 model year, the A6’s interior has withstood the test of time and doesn’t shortchange you in luxury-car experience. Even in the base model, occupants are treated to such niceties as heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and wood and metal trim. Both front and rear seats are comfy, supportive, and well bolstered—especially in the Competition model, which also sports quilted leather surfaces with red contrast stitching. In the world of mid-size luxury sedans, the offerings are evenly matched when it comes to cargo accommodation, but fold down the Audi's rear seats, and suitcase space increases substantially. Interior storage bins lag behind the A6's rivals.

2017 audi a6 interior dashView Photos
Michael Simari|Car and Driver

Infotainment and Connectivity

Audi’s available infotainment system—dubbed Multi Media Interface, or MMI—is one of the most intuitive in the luxury-sedan class. The interface is elegant in its simplicity and is controlled by a rotary knob located within easy reach of the driver and front-seat passenger on the center console. The screen powers itself down and into the dashboard when the ignition is switched off or at the touch of a button. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both welcome standard features, as are Bluetooth connectivity and a 10-speaker audio system. Higher trims add such items as navigation and 14-speaker Bose audio.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)

View Crash Test Results

For more information about the Audi A6’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.

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