2023 Audi A6

Audi sells a wide range of sedans and SUVs with luxurious interiors and lots of technology. Several of its SUVs and sedans have earned CR’s recommendation for balancing driver and passenger comfort with smooth power and nimble handling. In most cases, buyers shopping for sedans and SUVs in the luxury category should consider Audi’s options. Fit and finish quality reaches even the lowest-priced models. However, like most luxury cars from European brands, maintenance and repair costs can be expensive, making used Audis difficult to recommend. Typically, Audi identifies sedans with the letter A, SUVs with the letter Q, and numbers that increase according to size. The Q3 is a compact crossover while the Q8 is a three-row SUV. Models that start with S or RS are tuned for performance and have more power, stiffer suspension, and more aerodynamic exterior details. All-electric models have the E-tron suffix.

The redesigned Audi A6 features lots of new technology, including a new infotainment system. Most versions come with a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine; a 3.0-liter V6 engine with a mild hybrid system is also available. Both engines are paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission which is short on refinement at low speeds and the car hesitates before launch or from a rolling stop. In our tests the four-cylinder returned a commendable 26 mpg overall. The Audi's agile handling gives it a sporty driving experience. The ride is taut with underlying firmness but still comfortable. The quiet cabin is a delight in terms of fit and finish and the seats are extremely comfortable and supportive. The dual screen infotainment system is daunting at first, but we found it ultimately logical. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard.

Updates for 2020 brought a new high-performance S6 with a 2.9-liter V6 turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Allroad wagon returns and comes only with the 3.0-liter V6 turbo. For 2021 the Premium Plus got standard adaptive cruise control. There's also a new Sport 45 model, which includes a 13-hp boost compared to the standard four-cylinder engine (261 vs. 248). Finally, there's the RS 6 Avant wagon, powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 matched with an eight-speed transmission. 

A mild update for 2024 brings a new grille, enhanced connectivity features, and a slight power increase for the RS 6.