2017 Audi A6 Reviews

For many years Audi lagged behind arch rivals Mercedes-Benz and BMW models in the prestige car stakes in Australia.That was despite it holding equal ranking in most European countries. However, Audi is now seen as one of the ‘big three’ in the eyes of upmarket Australian buyers.The so-called single-frame grille, with its huge radiator grille has been a stroke of genius in automotive design and is arguably the main reason for the big increase in sales in recent years. In Australia, aggressive marketing and a willingness to throw serious money at marketing the brand has also played a major part. The subject of this week’s used-car review, the A6, is the mid-size vehicle in the Audi range.It replaced the Audi 100 in November 1994, but struggled in the sales race in its early days. A virtually all-new A6 reached Australia in November 1997 improved things somewhat so we will start looking in detail at the A6 from that model onwards.The aforementioned single-frame grille reached the A6 range in Australia in August 2005 and things really started to hike along. Interior design has been a strong point with Audis for many years and the cabin is close to immaculate in the way it’s themed and then constructed.The Audi A6 has high levels of noise, vibration and harshness suppression that make it a very capable high-speed cruiser. Interior space is OK for five adults, though lack of support in the centre-rear position makes it a noticeably less comfortable position than the other seats.Boot space is very good in the sedan. Audi A6 has a reasonably strong presence in the prestige station wagon market in Australia, though not to the huge extent it does on its home market. Handling is better than average for a front-wheel-drive car, though the powertrain layout, with the engine being mostly in front of the axle, means the nose-heavy machine tends to push slightly wide on corners.This has been toned down with each successive model, but is still a weak point compared with other vehicles in this upmarket German class. Owners who are more interested in the aforementioned waft-along cruising are unlikely to ever experience the understeering.There is the option of Audi’s famous quattro all-wheel-drive system for added traction on slippery roads. It too can suffer from front-end push but does so at higher cornering efforts. Quattro isn't on offer in all models, but is well worth the extra money if you’re a keen driver.Engines are many and varied, with petrol and diesel units on offer. In the petrol lineup there's everything from turbocharged, 2.0-litre four-cylinder units to a sweet little V6 with a capacity of just 2.4 litres and larger V6s displacing 2.8, 3.0 and 3.2 litres.These are complex cars and it's best that you have all work, other than the vary basics of servicing, done professionally. Audi dealers are generally restricted to major metropolitan areas but you will find some in major country centres as well. Contact Audi's head office in Sydney for further information.Insurance costs are relatively high, but no more than you would expect from quality cars built from top-end materials. Premiums don’t usually vary a lot between major players, but it's always worth shopping around for the best deal. Make sure you are comparing like with like before making your decision. As well as the standard A6 models, Audi also imports high-performance variants. Called, in ascending order of performance, Audi A6 S Line, Audi S6 and Audi RS6, the latter are sold in pretty limited numbers and are aimed at a very specialised market, so won’t be examined in detail here.WHAT TO LOOK FORRust is rare as Audi was a pioneer in using all-galvanised panels in its bodies. Poor crash repairs which didn’t see the metal being properly protected can still lead to troubles.Interiors are finished to a very high standard and last well. Nevertheless, careless owners can still cause damage so check the complete interior. Sun damage, even on cars that have been kept outside continuously, is rare, but check the upper surfaces of the dashboard as well as the condition of the rear parcel shelf.Look for oil leaks from early V6 engines and if the engine. Be sure the cam drive belt has been replaced on schedule. Look for oil leaks from the power-steering rack and the hoses connected to it.Check that the automatic transmission works smoothly and does not change gears when it shouldn’t. If a tiptronic is fitted run it up and down through the gears to make sure it selects them quickly.CAR BUYING TIPBeware the social-climbers who have bought cars they can’t afford to maintain correctly. If you can’t examine the service books be very suspicious. 

The A6 was akin to being Audi's middle child, lost between the A4 and the A8 and not quite fitting in with the other kiddies. That should change with this car, which is a solid step in the right direction and should go a long way to turning its lack-lustre resale performance around. VALUEIt's not cheap at a $93,900 list price (or $101,940 as tested) and those user-choosers looking to lease are going to double-take at the retained value figures - Glass's says its 36 per cent and Audi says it's in the mid-40s - but for a vehicle aimed at the exec fleet it's food for thought. That said, the new A6 has no shortage of gear, but you'd expect a fair bit when the price hovers around six figures. The entry-level quattro model gets an electric parking brake, cruise control, 18in alloys, anti-dazzle mirrors, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, xenon headlights with dusk and rain sensing function, keyless entry and start, sports steering wheel with myriad buttons for the trip computer, dual-zone climate control, sound system, satnav (all of which is displayed on the slide `n' pop screen in the centre of the dash), leather-trimmed electrically-adjustable front pews and a Bluetooth link for the phone. The Bluetooth also sometimes even connects up to the excellent sound system - if you're using an iPhone for sound as well, don't always expect an easy time connecting it - download your entire iPod into the hard drive, it'll be easier. Sound buffs have the option of going for Bose surround sound with 14 speakers (for $1950) or the Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker surround sound system for $12,340. There's no shortage of other options on offer - the test car had the adaptive headlight system (which costs $1400), rear parking sensors and a camera adds $960 and the grey-pearl paint (through some quirk in the way the options are configured) adds $5680 - stick with the standard colours.TECHNOLOGY The A6 is powered by a 2.8-litre alloy naturally-aspirated V6 that has direct injection and a variable valve timing and lift system to make the most of the premium 95RON unleaded. The result is 150kW (a 12kW loss over the old 2.8) and 280Nm, which doesn't sound like much for a 1680kg sedan. But it's enough and thanks to a start-stop fuel saving system it claims 8 litres of fuel per 100km - a litre better than the (lighter-weight) old model; our stint resulted in 10.2. The A6 drives via a seven-speed twin-clutch automated manual and all-wheel drive, which can vary the torque-split but normally sends 60 per cent to the rear and 40 per cent forward. The A6 also gets Audi's drive select dynamic handling system - which tweaks steering, throttle and automatic transmission's behaviour to suit different desires, or there are the options of adaptive air suspension and dynamic steering.DESIGNThis is a big German sedan but it's lighting package and sharp lines make it a handsome machine that is close in looks to the A8. Audi says its got aluminium a-plenty within the new sedan's construction, which 4915mm in length (a little shorter than the outgoing car), with a 2912mm wheelbase (69mm longer), 1874mm wide and 1455mm tall - a few millimetres shorter and lower. The cabin is functional and comfortable, with the broad, sweeping dashboard a busy but decipherable for the driver. The luggage space is 530 litres, which also has the benefit of folding rear seat back rests to boost space to 995 litres.SAFETYFive stars is fast becoming the norm for many brands and Audi is up there - dual front, front and rear side airbags and a full-length curtain airbag come into play if the anti-lock brakes (with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist), stability and traction control fail to help you avoid the impact in the first place.DRIVINGReading through the specs, there's not much that's jumps out and bodes well for the A6, but the car is better than the final equation suggests. The 2.8 is flexible - if no fireball - and while it sounds like it's working hard when demands are made, overall the V6 is a quiet and frugal powerplant, particularly given the size of car it is conveying. Enough room front and back for four normal-sized adults, a good-sized boot and most of the de riguer mod-cons, mean this is no bare-bones econobox. The ride is, as with most Audis, firm but not harsh, although the target audience might find day-to-day commuting a bit of a chore on what can only be described as third-rate Aussie roads - tick the option for the $4160 adaptive air suspension if you require something closer to a boulevarde ride. Point to point running through the hills can be swift, quiet and unfussed, with the back-up of all-wheel drive if conditions deteriorate, but the small V6 is not going to give the quattro system any cause for concern in terms of breaking traction under power. The electromechanical steering is light and accurate but dead for feel, something that probably doesn't bother those shelling out for the 2.8. The twin-clutch gearbox is smooth and quick most of the time, although it had moments of indecision and responded with a big thump when a quick departure from standstill was asked for (even without the start-stop delay, which at the time was disabled).That fuel-saver system is , which was quick in its speed of re-ignition - the brake pedal pressure didn't need full release and it was running again. The multi-media system has good quality sound is for the most part easy to navigate using Audi's knob-twirl controller, but the touch-pad is only worth using if you're left-handed and the arguments between the Bluetooth, the sound system and the iPhone 4's iPod function were annoying.VERDICT A quiet cruiser for the execu-set looking for Germanically frugal, regal motoring in something other than a Beemer or a Merc. Time will tell if the new model makes resale retention inroads but the A6 deserves to be seriously considered.Audi A6 2.8 FSIPrice:from $93,900Warranty: 3 years, unlimited kmResale: 36% Source: Glass's GuideService Interval: 25,000km or 12-monthsEconomy: 8 l/100km, on test 10.2, tank 75 litres; 187g/km CO2Safety: Equipment 8 airbags, ABS, EBD, stability and traction control. Crash rating 5 starEngine: 150kW/280Nm 2.8-litre direct-injection petrol V6 with variable valve systemTransmission: seven-speed auto, all-wheel driveBody: 4-door, 5 seatsDimensions: 4927mm (L); 1874mm (W); 1465mm (H); 2921mm (WB)Weight: 1680kgTyre: Size 245/45 R18. Space saver

HUGE news in 1972 was that the all-new Holden HQ had ground-breaking coil springs and flow-through ventilation. Things moved much slower back then. Peugeot had the same features a decade earlier, yet Holden's inclusions were considered a marvel akin to time travel. Advances today are done with microscopic electronic widgets and wires - or, in increasing instances, without wires - hardly able to be seen with the human eye.Audi has just launched its premium A6 with standard stuff that would freak out most mid-aged electronics engineers. The mind-boggling starts with touch-pad controls with numeral recognition, a voice recognition system and a sat-nav operated by the touch pad. It also has coil springs and flow-through ventilation.VALUEYou have to expect the $116,500 price tag of the latest Audi A6. The car is lavish in its appointments yet there's a blanket of restraint that gives it understated elegance. Quality is paramount, as is the fluidity of the drivetrain that ensures limousine performance. All Aussie A6s get S-Line equipment and kit includes a 14-speaker Bose audio, walnut dash inlays and sunroof. It compares very well with its rivals.DESIGNKinda l ike an A4, but 200mm longer. Only the abrupt and in-ya-face grille stops the A6 from becoming invisible on the road, for it's lines are uncluttered and its proportions are close to perfect. The austere black-lined cabin is saved only by assorted alloy-look trim and matte walnut inlays but despite its simplicity, manages to carry a lot of style cred and also works a treat.TECHNOLOGYA lot of its highlights are expected from Audi. Energy recuperation from the brakes is used to top up the battery  and help the stop-start system. The A6 is partly aluminium, cutting weight 15 per cent on its predecessor and now making it only 30kg heavier than an equivalent A4. There's all-wheel drive under Audi's ``quattro'' tag, the perennial 3-litre V6 turbo-diesel - now with 180kW/500Nm for a 0-100km/h cracker of 6.1 seconds - and a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.SAFETYA full suite of electronics to help keep the car on the road and avoid accidents, eight airbags, a five-star crash rating and an unerring  ability to feel so confident, solid and safe on the road. The all-wheel drive is also a big plus, as is the stability when cornering, though a full-size spare would be appreciated. Yes, one will fit.DRIVINGPut 500Nm of low-end diesel torque in any car and you're in for a blast. The A6 doesn't disappoint - though it's not up to the BMW 535d's explosive kick - with so much on tap it keeps the seven cogs in the dual-clutch box quite busy. There is some lag - a combination of catching the turbo before it's up to speed while trying to wake a dozing dual-clutch box - that produces some awkward moments. If you want brisk motoring and avoid such odd moments of embarrassment, use the gearbox's manual mode via the paddle shifts. Ride comfort is superb (air suspension is available but probably not worth it) and the multi-link suspension front and back works hard to cleverly hide the nose-heavy character. Much like Porsche sweated over defying physics with the rear-mounted engine in the 911.AUDI A6 3.0 TDIPrice: $116,500Warranty: 3 years, unlimited kmResale: 56%Service interval: 15,000km or 12 monthsEconomy: 6.0 l/100km; 158g/km CO2Safety equipment: 8 airbags, ESC, ABS, EBD, EBA, TCCrash rating: 5 starEngine: 180kW/500Nm 3-litre V6 turbo-dieselTransmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch autoBody: 4-door, 5 seatsDimensions: 4915 (L); 1874mm (W); 1455mm (H); 2912mm (WB)Weight: 1720kgTyres: size 245/45R18, space-saver spare.

TWO poor wretches have just emerged from the car behind and the scene is dreadful: completely soaked and exhausted, they stumble into the bright light and find comfort in 35C heat.The unfortunate fellows have spent a couple of hours driving through the Adelaide Hills in the new Audi A6 and it's much hotter inside the car than outside in the sun. The A6 has airconditioning, of course. They've turned it off.Their shirts dry more quickly than I can stop laughing. But behind the smile is concern, and not for their personal hygiene: What did you get?ECONOMY PRESSUREWe're on an efficiency challenge, dreamed up by Audi to demonstrate the frugality of its new four-cylinder A6s. These have just joined the six-cylinders launched in June and a handful of cars, petrol and diesel, have been split between two teams.Lowest total wins. As fellow members of team green, my co-driver and I need the sweaty ones to do well. Even if we don't want to sit next to them. Their number is 5.0 litres per 100km, bang on the official fuel consumption figure for the diesel 2.0 TDI. Anyone who has tried to replicate these numbers knows they don't relate very well to the real world. In the A6, help is at hand. An energy meter for auxiliaries shows how much you save. For our perspiring team-mates, turning off the aircon gave them an edge. It's a good result and shows off the driveline, at least, to best advantage. Crucially, too, it's better than the diesels of the opposing team.TECHNOLOGYBut even those more concerned about personal comfort are doing fairly well. With this generation, A6 four-cylinders go to the top of the efficiency class. The 5.0l/100km figure for the 2.0 TDI means it matches or betters the BMW 520d, Jaguar XF 2.2D and Mercedes E220 CDI.It's a similar story with the petrol 2.0 TFSI, which improves 17 per cent for a figure of 6.4. The 2.0 TFSI matches the newest (and yet undriven) BMW 520i and is substantially more economical than the Mercedes E250 CGI, with its turbo 1.8.At this level, the 2.0 TFSI also benefits from a higher luxury car tax threshold and so a couple of thousand comes off the starting price. Both diesel and petrol have more power and torque than before and both are quicker. As well as being neck-and-neck with each other -- at 8.2 or 8.3 seconds to 100km/h -- they lose just one-tenth in acceleration to the naturally aspirated 2.8-litre V6.As well as the latest engine technology, including direct injection, the fours have stop-start systems and drive the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission with eight manually selectable ratios. Helping the efficiency claims are aluminium panels, including the bonnet and doors, which reduce weight by 65kg.DRIVINGHappily, you don't have to take an in-car sauna to benefit and in the petrol we're leaving it on for long spells and still getting 6.3. That's slightly better than the official figure and I'm not entirely clear how we've done it.Certainly, there's no point thinking you can drive as you usually do. At least, not for most drivers. We've been accelerating and braking as smoothly as possible and trying to even out speed by looking a long way ahead, anticipating every move. We're also going much slower than the law allows. At times, 20km/h below the limit as we try to keep revs low. For a while, there are a half-dozen cars backed up behind, and who can be patient in heat like this?Well, Adelaide can. In most parts of Australia, we'd have been thoroughly abused by now -- a concern in a city better known for its murders than its churches. But if there's a bright spot for road tolerance in Australia, we're in it. This, it seems, is business as usual for South Australian drivers. At least on last week's baking Wednesday.Across a 170km route through the Adelaide Hills our 6.3 in the petrol combines with two excellent scores from team green diesels to take out the win. But it's with some relief that the next day's drive does not involve a competition; this sort of thing can become obsessive.With the normal amount of lead in my right foot, different aspects of the engines stand out. Both the petrol and diesel have enough low-rev torque for an easygoing drive and either four-cylinder would make a relaxed touring machine. It's quiet and civilised in here.This is true even though both employ a continuously variable transmission. CVTs can be unpleasant because of the way they exploit an engine's power band. They tend to locate one narrow part of the rev range and adjust their internal ratios, rather than rev the engine out as you would normally. They can be shrill and will never be a driver's first pick. Although here they are better than expected.Nor is front-wheel drive the enthusiast's choice, especially for a large car. If performance and handling is your priority, then the V6s come with all-wheel drive. If I was left with doubts about these cars, it concerned their ride quality, which felt busy even on roads that looked smooth.I wasn't convinced they could cope with the worst of Aussie tarmac. But I do know, for sure, that the airconditioning can cope with the worst of Aussie heat.AUDI A6 2.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDIPrice: From $77,900 (2.0 TFSI) to $78,900 (2.0 TDI) plus on-road costsEngines: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol or dieselOutputs: 132kW at 4000kW and 320Nm at 1500rpm (2.0 TFSI); 130kW at 4200kW and 380Nm at 1750rpm (2.0 TDI)Transmission: Eight-speed continuously variable transmission, front-wheel driveFuel Consumption: 6.4l/100km (2.0 TFSI) 5.0l/100km (2.0 TDI)

HEAR that noise? It's German businessmen cheering. No, not because season 10 of Inspector Rex is out on DVD. The high-fives are due to the recent launch of the next-generation Audi A6 -- their car of choice.In Australia, the A6 doesn't connect in the same way. It's third among the large prestige car bestsellers with 590 sales this year -- far behind the Mercedes-Benz E-Class on 1177 and BMW's 5 Series on 1109. Tailgating the A6 is the Jaguar XF with 441.There's a lot more going for Audi's luxury sedan than the figures suggest. And the argument for buying one has just become stronger with the arrival of four-cylinder turbo petrol and diesel models with a price closer to a Holden Caprice than its German rivals.VALUEThere are five cars in the 2012 A6 line-up. Starting with the V6 quattros, the top-spec petrol 3.0 TFSI is $121,000, the diesel 3.0 TDI is $116,500 and the petrol 2.8FSI is $93,900. The front-drive four-cylinders are the diesel 2.0 TDI at $78,900 and our petrol 2.0 TFSI is $77,900. The latter's rivals are the Benz E250 at $97,780, BMW 528i at $99,900 and Jaguar XF 2.2D Luxury at $78,900. If you want to throw in an Aussie outsider, the Holden Caprice is $61,990. It might be a big V6 but the Audi A6's turbo four almost matches its torque. The TFSI comes standard with keyless entry and ignition, light and rain sensors, parking assistance, 8-inch pop-up monitor for satnav and multimedia, Drive Select to change comfort, dynamic and economy settings, leather all round with power front seats, 10-speaker audio, wing mirrors with memory settings, Bluetooth, alarm and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The spare wheel is a space saver.TECHNOLOGYThe 2.0 TFSI's outputs are 132kW/320Nm (healthy compared with the 2.8's 150kW/280Nm). The claimed fuel economy is 6.4L/100km; I averaged 10.1L/100km in mainly city driving. The engine has a stop-start mode to save fuel and there is a braking-energy recovery system. The four-cylinder A6s use Audi's continuously variable transmission, precluding all-wheel drive, but saving on weight and price.SAFETYAll A6s have a five-star ANCAP crash-test rating. Standard across the range are eight airbags, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control and electronic differential lock, which allocate drive to the wheel or wheels with traction.DESIGNThe 2012 version is the seventh generation of the car and there's still some residual styling DNA from the original in the current car. A German businessman time-travelling from 1997 would recognise it. It's not boring -- I think it's damned sexy with its peaked ridges running down the bonnet to those LED-lined eyes. The body is low, the stance is wide and the wheel arches are muscular.The only drawback is that the A6 looks too similar to other Audis. The company has taken a cookie-cutter approach to shaping the cars and this may help with brand identity, but the models are losing differentiation. You have to be an Audi geek to tell your A4 from your A6.Inside the 2.0 TFSI it's more executive than luxury. Controls for the satnav and radio are right next to your hand on the centre console. Leg room is excellent front and back. The boot is almost wagon-sized at 530 litres.DRIVINGThe 2.0 TFSI has more than enough grunt to get itself out of (or into) trouble and rides like a limo. You pay for Audi's chassis tuning and knowledge of suspension set-up, and you get your money's worth in assured and predictable handling.VERDICTThe A6 2.0 TFSI is a deal breaker. If you were planning to buy a 5 Series or an E-Class, the Audi for less cash could be a very attractive option. Or it could be a first step up into a prestige Euro sedan for only a tad more than Holden money.RATINGAUDI A6 2.0 TFSIPrice: $77,900Warranty: Three yearsResale: 57% (est)Service: 15,000km/12 monthsSafety equipment: 8 airbags, ABS, EBD, ESP, TC, EDLCrash rating: 5-starEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo petrol, 132kW/320NmBody: 4-door, 5-seatTransmission: CVTEconomy: 6.4L/100km, 149g/km CO2.

The mid-sized prestige market has been a very lucrative one in the past 20 years or so, particularly for European carmakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, and more latterly Audi with its A6. Audi has been aggressively, and successfully, chasing market share and the A6 has been an important weapon in its campaign to overthrow its rivals.The most obvious change to the A6 introduced in 2006 was the bold new grille, but that change alone said plenty about the model and the brand's intent. In one fell swoop the A6, and the brand, took on a more aggressive, in your face look. It emerged from the pack and said 'look at me'. If the grille was the centrepiece of the overhaul, there were other changes to the body as well. Again, given BMW's move to more sharply defined, chiselled lines, the smooth, sweeping lines of the Audi were appealing to the many buyers who found the BMW looks challenging.The new A6 was larger than the previous model, with more cabin space and a larger boot, made even more useful thanks to a folding rear seat. The interior was nicely designed and finished, with comfortable and supportive seats, and everything else you could wish for in the segment. When first launched the A6 had a selection of engines ranging from a 2.4-litre V6 through to a 4.2-litre V8, along with a new 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6.But in no time at all more engines were introduced, including a new fuel-efficient 2.0-litre TFSi unit. The transmission choices were a six-speed automatic with tiptronic shift control and a smooth CVT continuously variable automatic gearbox, and there was a choice of front-wheel drive or Audi's popular Quattro all-wheel drive system.Not surprisingly given its price the A6 came with plenty of luxury features, like leather and wood trim, CD sound, power seats, sat-nav and a raft of others. On the road the A6 was a smooth operator aimed more at giving the executive a smooth ride than a driving thrill. It wasn't as sporty as a BMW 5-Series, but that was Audi's claimed point of difference. Even though it didn't pretend to be as sporty as its main rival it still displayed a fine handling balance with a reassuring neutral poise that dealt corners with a minimum of fuss. The ride, too, was blissfully smooth and supple on all surfaces, and bumps and broken pavement was soaked up with consummate ease.IN THE SHOPIt's European, which means it comes with technology that can  sometimes be temperamental, and parts and repairs can be expensive. Before buying a second hand Audi it's a good idea to have it checked  by someone with experience in the brand, someone who can pick the faults and advise on what could go wrong. It's also well worthwhile to be on good terms with an independent Audi specialist who can not only expertly service your car, but also source more affordable parts if and when needed. Look for oil leaks around the engine and coolant leaks around the cooling system, check the service record, and inspect for poor crash repairs.AT A GLANCEPrice new: $80,600 to $145,900Engines: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol; 125 kW/280 Nm 2.4-litre V6 petrol; 130 kW/230 Nm 2.8-litre V6 petrol; 154 kW/280 Nm 3.2-litre V6 petrol; 188 kW/330 Nm 4.2-litre V8 petrol; 246 kW/420 Nm 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel; 165 kW/450 NmTransmissions: 6-speed auto, CVT, FWD, AWDEconomy: 8.5 L/100 km (2.0T), 9.8 L/100 km (2.4), 9.7 L/100 km (2.8),  9.9 L/100 km (3.2), 13.2 L/100 km (4.2), 8.3 L/100 km (3.0 TDi).Body: sedan, wagonVariants: Base, Avant, and Quattro Safety: 5-star ANCAPVERDICTSmooth driving, smooth riding, well-equipped alternative to the BMW with a smooth new look.

A sleeper in Audi's range may awaken following the introduction of a new generation A6 medium large sedan. A6 has never really resonated with buyers in this country who seem to prefer cars from BMW (5-Series) and Mercedes-Benz (E-Class.) That is not to criticise the A6 as past iterations have all been impressive but it just hasn't been on the radar for a fairly select clientele.TECHNOLOGYThe seventh generation A6 deserves a place among its competitors for a whole range of reasons; aluminium space frame chassis/body, quattro all wheel drive, efficient petrol and diesel V6 engines — two force-fed, and a seven-speed dual-clutch `manumatic' auto as standard.The quattro all wheel drive system is a bonus in A6 that none of its competitors can match. It's available here now with a choice of three engines lifted from other Audis.DESIGNThe V6 models (two four cylinder variants will be available soon,) have Audi's sporty S-Line styling treatment with front air intakes, large diameter wheels, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler. All subtly executed of course.It's a shorter car than the previous model but with a longer wheelbase evident in generous rear seat legroom.The car looks glamorous with an arching, coupe like roofline, sharp side shoulder creases and a three dimensional bonnet. Lights are xenon or LED.The wrap around interior is stylish, modern and has a craftsman-built (bespoke) appearance. Options can add considerably to the allure of the interior at a considerable price. One of our test drive cars had the optional Bose audio at $10,700?Audi's brilliant drive select system is standard on all V6 models. It allows drivers to "dial-up" the car's dynamic behaviour through a selection of calibrations to the engine, suspension, steering transmission and stability control systems.Fuel efficiency gains are made through the engine stop/start system on all V6 models.DRIVINGWe drove the two 3.0-litre V6s in New Zealand and really couldn't pick between the two. Both offer superb engine performance and sumptuous luxury right up with the competition. The styling is a bit derivative and it's possible to mistake the new A6 for an A4.It does have real presence on the road and is a glorious consumer of long distances. Two 2.0-litre models will arrive soon, one a petrol turbo and the other a turbodiesel. Both will have CVT auto transmissions and front wheel drive only.AT A GLANCEPrice: from $80,000.Warranty: 3 years/unlimitedService interval: 15,000km/12monthsEngine: TFSi 3.0 supercharged petrol V6, 220kW/440Nm FSi 2.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol V6, 150kW/280Nm.Body: Four-door sedanWeight: 1725kgTransmission: 6-speed tiptronic with DSP (Dynamic Shift Program) and sport program.Thirst: 8.2-litres/100km (TFSi 3.0), 8.0-litres/100km (FSi 2.8)

A new Audi A6 is throwing a punch at the large luxury heavyweights, the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Audi has struggled to lure cashed up customers into its big luxury machines including the A6 and even larger A8 in Australia, but is confident this new model will convince many when it arrives in July.The new car is more spacious and 80kg lighter than the last thanks to the extensive use of aluminium. It has a range of remarkably efficient engines, while there is a lot of fresh technology. Audi has followed BMW and added heads-up display feature, which projects information such as the speed onto the bottom of the windscreen, and will also offer a squiggle pad data entry system, which allows you to draw letters and numbers to control items such as the satellite navigation.VALUEAudi is yet to lock in pricing for the new A6, but don't expect it to shift too far from the current position. That means the range will likely start off at close to $90,000, although a more affordable version could well be added later.TECHNOLOGYThere will be three engines to choose from to start off with, including two petrol units and a diesel, but history suggests a smaller cheaper diesel engine will come, as will a hot V8 version. All three of the initial engines use stop/start technology, which kills the engine when you pull up to a stop and fires it up again when you are ready to go.The entry level engine is a 2.8-litre V6 with 150 kiloWatts and 280 Newton-metres of torque. It has an official fuel economy uses 8 litres per 100km and an emissions rating of 187 grams per kilometre.The other petrol powerplant is a 3.0-litre V6 with a supercharger nestled on top and it produces an impressive 220kW and 440Nm of torque. Its fuel consumption is better than you might expect, with an official average of just 8.2L/100km and emissions rating of 190g/km.The diesel is a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 180kW and 500Nm. It uses very little fuel, with an economy average of just 6L/100km and emissions of 158g/km.All models run Audi's Quattro constant all-wheel drive system and a seven speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.DESIGNThe A6 looks like a shrunken A8 limo. It has a hunkered down appearance with narrow headlights and tail lights stretched to give it a wide and imposing look. Like other Audis, the front end is still dominated by a big grille while Audi has added some extra bling with LED driving lights.SAFETYAs the price tag suggests, there is a huge amount of safety gear in the A6 including a full suite of airbags and electronic stability control. Optional systems include a special radar cruise control system that can bring the car to an emergency halt if the vehicle in front stops suddenly. There is also a thermal imaging night vision system that highlights pedestrians in red to warn the driver.DRIVINGA test drive on the tough roads of Sicily quickly reveals there is lot to like about the new A6. In many ways, it feels just like a shrunken down version of the bigger A8 luxury limo. The interior looks great, as is the case with most Audis, and its classy mix of understated design and top quality woodgrain and chrome-look trim matches the price of the car.Audi has done a very good job with the engines. The base 2.8-litre non-turbo V6 is a surprise and actually seemed to get along pretty well. It does better than the numbers suggest and is quite smooth too. The supercharged 3.0-litre V6 is a potent engine and turns the A6 into a very fast car indeed. That said, it doesn't sound fast or exciting. The diesel is the most sensible, with lots of pulling power and super economy. It rattles, like any diesel, but the pay-off is in the way it responds to your right foot.The seven-speed dual clutch automatic is an effective transmission in general with nice quick changes. Only every now and again does it get caught out and thump when shifting. It is very quiet in the cabin apart from some tyre roar on some surfaces and there is also a fair amount interior space.The ride is comfortable, even on some of Sicily's rougher roads. As for the handling, well, the A6 isn't really a very involving car and is not as fun to drive fast as a BMW 5 Series.The steering is light and lacks feel. The air suspension on the cars we drove was too soft, which also hurt its ability to change direction in hurry. A run in a car with regular steel spring suspension showed it is a much better solution for sporty driving, but also remains comfortable.VERDICTNot the sportiest car in its class, but has a lot else going for it including comfort, elegant design and a whole range of trick luxury features.AUDI A6 Price: TBCEngines: 2.8-litre V6 with direct injection and dual overhead camshafts, 3.0-litre supercharged V6 with direct injection and dual overhead camshafts and 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6 with direct injection and dual overhead camshaftsOutput: 150kW at 5250-6500revs and 280Nm at 5250-6500revs (2.8), 220kW at 5250-6500revs and 440Nm at 2900-4500revs (3.0) and 180kW at 4000-4500revs and 500Nm at 1400-3250revs (3.0 diesel)Economy: 8 litres per 100km (2.8), 8.2L/100km (3.0) and 6L/100km (3.0 diesel)Emissions: 187 grams per kilometre (2.8), 190g/km (3.0) and 158g/km (3.0 diesel)

But the really important question is: what do women want in a car?Finding the answer keeps carmakers tossing and turning at night, because they are well aware that women choose more than half the vehicles sold in Australia. There are all the ones they buy for themselves, as well as the deciding vote on most of the ones bought by households.Sorry, fellas. It’s true. No matter how much you want that souped-up sports car, unless the head of household finances agrees you may as well back away from the vehicle now.One of the earliest attempts to deliver a car for women was the mid-1950s Dodge La Femme. It was actually a 1955 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer under the skin, but the Detroit designers camouflaged that skin as thoroughly as a make-up artist doing Vogue covers.The car was decked out in pink paint, with an interior covered in pink vinyl, set off by pink rosebud tapestry. And to show that this was not merely a cynical marketing exercise, Dodge kitted the car with accessories they thought reflected the growing independence of post-World War II women moving into meaningful career paths - a pink handbag complete with office essentials like a matching powder compact, lipstick case and comb.Sales estimates run as low as less than 1000 cars. And the pink panderer was quickly dropped from the Dodge range at the end of the following year.Australia’s own Carla Zampatti tweaked a Ford specifically for women in the 1980s, but whether it won women - with accessories including a hanging hook for handbags - is still open to question.However, Dodge and Ford weren’t completely on the wrong track. Women want a car to be stylish, but also practical. Luckily, these days there are quite a few vehicles that fit the bill – without playing the pink paint card. These are the best style picks for women today, from a woman's perspective, with the figures for the basic car.Don’t agree with these? Let us know what YOU think women want in a car in our poll at left.LIGHTMazda2Price: from $16,030Engine: 76kW/137Nm 1.5-litre petrolTransmission: manualEconomy: 6.4L/kmEmissions: 152g/kmThe baby 2 has cute and slightly edgy looks, is compact with usable space, and the long doors make it easy to get in the back seat. The auto will be preferred by most, but it adds to the weight of the little car.Close calls: Ford Fiesta from $16,990; Peugeot 207 from $22,490.SMALLBMW 1-SeriesPrice: from $38,900Engine: 160kW/270Nm 2.0-litre petrolTransmission: manualEconomy: 8.2L/kmEmissions: 190g/kmA pocket-sized entry in German prestige – without breaking the pocket. Looks stunning, an amazing amount of room, and great to drive.Close calls: Mazda3 from $21,330; Hyundai i30 from $20,390.MEDIUMFord MondeoPrice: from $31,990Engine: 118kW/208Nm 2.3-litre petrolTransmission: manualEconomy: 9.5L/kmEmissions: 227g/kmThe best thing Ford has brought to Australia in … ever, possibly. Enough space to make you wonder if you’ll ever need a larger car, elegant design and well built.Close calls: Mazda6 from $31,834; Audi A5 Sportback from $78,400.LARGEAudi A6Price: from $74,500Engine: 125kW/350Nm 2.0-litre petrolTransmission: automaticEconomy: 5.8L/kmEmissions: 153g/kmThere’s not a high chic quotient in this class - where the homegrown Falcon and Commodore lean more to aggressive styling - so the Audi’s restrained elegance makes it a clear winner.Close calls: Honda Accord from $36,381Mercedes-Benz E-Class from $80,900.PEOPLE MOVERHonda OdysseyPrice: from $46,166Engine: 132kW/218Nm 2.5-litre petrolTransmission: manualEconomy: 8.9L/kmEmissions: 212g/kmIn a class that’s dominated by lumpy boxes, the Odyssey is a sleek stand-out. It's low-slung, car-like and leading with a fashionable face.Close calls: Citroen C4 Grand Picasso from $39,990; Chrysler Voyager $60,990.SPORTYBMW Mini Cooper ClubmanPrice: from $36,600Engine: 88kW/160Nm 1.6-litre petrolTransmission: automaticEconomy: 6.8L/kmEmissions: 163g/kmA bonsai wagon with go-kart street cred and revamped retro lines, this one will get admiring glances from everybody.Close calls: Kia Cerato Koup from $23,690; Audi S3 from $69,100.CONVERTIBLEVolkswagen EosPrice: from $47,990Engine: 103kW/320Nm dieselTransmission: automaticEconomy: 6.0L/kmEmissions: 158g/kmThe EOS is streamlined and sophisticated, looks equally good with the roof open or closed – and has enough room in the back to get a couple of extra friends in for short trips.Close calls: BMW Z4 from $86,200; Lexus IS250C from $80,150. SUVHyundai ix35Price: from $26,990Engine: 122kW/197Nm petrolTransmission: manualEconomy: 8.5L/kmEmissions: 201g/kmThere’s heaps of practicality but precious little style in the SUV paddocks. But Hyundai’s new compact ix35 proves you can have both. Ultra-modern lines, trim shape and space to spare.Close calls: Jeep Wrangler (medium) from $31,590; Land Rover Range Rover Sport (large) from $99,900.

It's a calorie-free fact that Audi has more models and engine choices than that Baskin Robbins has ice cream colours and flavours. There's also the fact that one-quarter of Audi's range is diesel and even here there's a choice of five engines ranging from a 1.9-litre sipper to a 4.2-litre stonker. So it's odd that Audi introduces a 2.7-litre engine to separate its 2-litre and 3-litre diesels. Why bother? Because it's not just about the size.Drivetrain and economy The 2.7 is Audi's latest turbo-diesel. Like the 3-litre, it's a V6 but adds low-friction engine components and low-drag steering and oil pumps. Audi claims fuel savings of up to 15 per cent and rates the 2.7-litre turbo-diesel in the A6 at 6.4 litres/100km — pretty good for a big saloon even though this city-bound test recorded a more modest 8.2 l/100km.PricingIf you're happy with that — and can afford the $84,500 entry fee — you'd be even more delighted knowing you have saved a fair amount of sales tax. Thanks to the A6 2.7's low fuel thirst of less than 7 l/100km, the 33 per cent Luxury Car Tax kicks in at $75,000, not the $57,180 of thirstier rivals. Effectively, the A6 2.7 buyer pays the tax on $9500, not $17,320. Personally, it's a tax on a tax and shouldn't even exist but it's now written and unlikely ever to be erased. But it will be the last thing on your mind after getting the A6 on the road.DrivingThis is a big car that thinks it's a small car and in comparison to the BMW 5-Series 530d, is arguably more comfortable, better built, easier to operate and cheaper. In the BMW's favour, the 5-Series handles better and has a more sporty nature.The Audi is more a saloon. The 2.7 comes only in the front-wheel drive version with a continuously-variable (automatic) transmission. It's suited more to the person who wants a luxury car with outstanding build quality, exceptional range (this will go up to 1250km in the country) and plenty of room and features. If you want a sports car, look elsewhere.The A6 will lope along in the country yet is benign as a small car in the city. The handling is very good. Not excellent like the 530d mainly because the Audi has its diesel engine forward of the front axle and therefore — despite lots of work including an alloy bonnet and fenders — is a tad nose-heavy into tight corners.This quirk won't concern any but the most discerning driver. For the rest, take it from me that this is an accurate, comfortable and always confident five-seater. A lot of its appeal is its ease of use and simple controls. The park brake is electronic and consists merely of a postage stamp-size console button.The central controller allows access to a host of vehicle operations to fine tune it to the driver. But it has preset buttons so finding everything is quick. The rear seats are split and fold down so long objects can be stored, so adding an element of versatility to the car. And while we're in the big boot, there's a full-size spare wheel.The cabin also gets woodgrain and leather and the front seats have electric adjustment. It's a top car and shows that the diesel really is suited to the luxury car sector.Verdict: 86/100Audi A6 2.7 TDI Price: $84,500Engine: 2.7-litre, V6, turbocharger, intercoolerPower: 140kW @ 3500-4400rpmTorque: 400Nm @ 1400-3500rpmTransmission: CVT automatic, 7-speed preset; front-drivePerformance: 0-100km/h 7.9 seconds, top speed 277km/hEconomy: (official): 6.4 litres/100km, tested): 7.2 litres/100kmEmissions: 169g/km (Corolla: 175g/km)Rivals BMW 530d ($116,250) — 83/100Jaguar XF diesel ($116,250) — 85/100Mercedes E220CD ($80,900) — 83/100Volvo S80 D5 ($73,950) — 84/100