Model Strengths:

Several powerful engines to choose from; two distinctive and stylish bodies; notable for both performance and luxury

Model Overview

The A6 sedan has three engines available: the 3.2-liter V6 with 265 hp, the supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6 making 300 hp and the 4.2-liter FSI capable of 350 hp. The Audi A6 Avant wagon offers only the 3.0-liter engine. The S6 features a 5.2-liter FSI engine producing 435 hp. The A6 sedan, in addition to the choice of engine, offers several trim levels: 3.2 Premium, 3.2 Premium Plus, 3.0T Premium, 3.0T Prestige and 4.2 Prestige. The A6 Avant comes in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige trims, but the S6 has just one trim level. Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard on the A6 Avant and S6, but isn't available on the A6 sedan with the 3.2-liter engine. All models come with speed-sensitive steering, stability control, TPMS, brake assist and hill hold assist for starting on an incline. They also feature airbags for all passengers, including head curtain airbags for front and rear seats. Standard luxury features include heated headlight washers, sunroof, power heated front seats, wood trim, navigation system, an iPod connection and Bluetooth connectivity. Prestige packages add auto-dimming heated mirrors, adaptive headlights and Bose surround sound. Options include heated rear seats and upgraded wheels. The S6, in addition to the powerful engine and quick time to 60 mph, offers sport seats, multifunction steering wheel with shift paddles, 12-way power front seats, pass through with ski bag, rain-sensing windshield wipers and optional carbon fiber interior inlays.

Model Changes

The A6 and its high-performance sibling the S6, received a pretty thorough refresh in 2009, and there have been few changes to the model since. Quattro all-wheel drive is now standard on all but a couple A6 variations and HD radio is standard across the board for 2011.

Model Value

In the filled-to-the-brim sports luxury segment, the Audi A6 and S6 supply both. Luxury notes such as standard leather seats and navigation system are included. The A6 comes with 265 hp on tap. The top-of-the-line S6 produces a whopping 435 hp for a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds. Fuel efficiency in the smaller engines is as high as 30 mpg on the highway ? not too shabby for a 0-60 time of near 6 seconds.