We say
Space, comfort, refinement - the Audi A6 Saloon ticks all the boxes. A very strong car, if you can afford it.
Performance
Three petrols and three turbodiesels on offer, with the 3.2 V6 and 3.0 turbodiesel providing smooth drives with strong rev ranges. 2.0 TDI is popular due to blend of performance and economy. Quattro 4WDs offer huge grip.
Emissions
High levels of CO2 emissions make many A6 saloon expensive for business users - its target market. However the base turbodiesel unit can return over 45mpg combined and emits under 160g/km.
Driving
The A6 offers driving thrills for a car of its size thanks to strong body control but the steering is rather vague, and has clearly been optimised for comfort. Front- and four-wheel drive models are available, with the latter firming up the car’s drivability. Air suspension on some A6 saloons means it’s possible to change suspension settings.
Feel
Wind and road noise impressively are quiet on the Audi A6, with quiet engines and a smooth transmission making for an excellent cruiser. Choosing cruise control as an option makes sense.
Space
Huge driver and passenger space with plenty of boot room at 546 litres, extending to 1,660 litres with the boot down.
Equipment
Climate control, a CD player and automatic wipers and other entry-levels baubles will be standard, but you’ll pay for lots of things you’ll expect on entry-level models.
Price
The A6 saloon is expensive to buy and run in many variants in comparison to rivals, though diesel models help and residual values will be strong.
Quality
Quality materials inside make the Audi A6 one of the best-built cars in its class in this respect.
Safety
Skid and stability controls, ABS and six airbags mean a maximum of five stars in NCAP tests.
Pros
Luxurious, huge, great engines.
Cons
Expensive to buy and run, and residuals not as strong as competitors.
Alternatives
Mercedes E-Class Saloon, BMW 5-Series, Jaguar S-Type