AUDI A6
Audi's A6 line of executive cars is everything the brand stands for—style, performance, and luxury. Since 1994, their head-turning facade and plush interior have been matched only by the high-performance engines and technology embedded within, making them the gold standard against which all other executive cars are held. Their signature Audi build quality ensures that they'll be dishing out the same excellent driving experience for many years, so buying one used would be a way to enjoy this exciting vehicle without paying the full sticker price. Keep reading to learn more about the A6 and the key considerations you should make when buying one.
Origin
The Audi A6 was first introduced in 1994 alongside Audi's introduction of its new alphanumeric naming system. Launched to replace the Audi 100, it was essentially a facelifted continuation of its predecessor with slight changes like new front and rear lights, a new radiator grille, and different chassis, engine, and transmission choices.
1st Generation (C4 1994-1997)
While the first generation of the A6 was a facelifted version of the Audi 100, it featured more curves—a reflection of a shift in preferences toward a more organic design. Metallic trims surrounded the dials and gauges laid on the luxury, as did features like heated seats, which became standard in lower trims. A wide range of engines were available, from 1.8L inline four-cylinder to 2.8L V6 gasoline engines and 1.9L and 2.5L diesel engines.
2nd Generation (C5 1997-2004)
Most consider the second generation, released in 1997, the first true A6 since it wasn't a rebadged version of the Audi 100. Giant leaps were made from its predecessor as it dwarfed the previous generation in size, featured no flat surfaces, and had a cabin that was even more comfortable than the flagship A8. In 2002, the A6 got a facelift that changed up its headlights, grilles, exhaust tips, and body moldings, plus the introduction of new engines. The second generation A6 was featured on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best lists in 2000, 2001, and World Car of the Year in 2005. Engines ranged from 1.8L to 4.2L for gasoline and 1.9L or 2.5L for diesel. Besides the five- and six-speed manual transmissions, this generation also featured a five-speed automatic Multitronic CVT and a five-speed automatic with Tiptronic.
3rd Generation (C6 2004-2011)
The third generation A6 led the charge in Audi's shift in design language for the subsequent years. Designed by Satoshi Wada, this generation of the A6 got a new single-frame grille. Once again, it was larger than its predecessor and featured new technologies like the Multi Media Interface control system and Fuel Stratified Injection in its engines. This generation also got a new suspension configuration that gave a more unique ride. With the 2008 facelift came more minor design changes, like tail lights extending to the trunk lid. The addition of the S-line exterior package gave the option for a new grille and bumper, 18-inch alloy wheels, and more features.
Gasoline engines were 2.0L, 2.8L, 3.0L, 3.2L and 4.2L inline-four and V6s, while diesels were 2.0L, 2.7L, and 3.0L inline-four and V6s.
4th Generation (C7 2011-2018)
The fourth generation was even more attractive than the last, thanks to a trunk spoiler and LED running lights. It was bigger, too, with a larger wheelbase that measured almost 2.9 meters long. The A6 now came in two body styles - either the standard four-door sedan or the wagon known as the Avant - and three trims - the Premium, Premium Plus, and the top-of-the-line Prestige. The S-line exterior package, which gave the A6 a sportier appearance, was carried over to this generation. As part of its facelift in 2014, the A6 got a new 3.0L turbocharged V6 capable of 310 hp, which made it a force to be reckoned with among mid-sized sedans.
Other engines were 2.0L, 2.8L, and 3.0L gasolines, and 2.0L or 3.0L turbodiesels.
5th Generation (C8 2018-present)
Yet again, the A6 grew in size to feature a 2920 mm long wheelbase to look more like a larger sedan from the side. This generation oozed luxury as 18-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof became the standard across all trims, all paired with an interior crafted with soft leather upholstery. A hybrid version was also available in this generation.
Engines were 2.0L and 3.0L gasoline and turbodiesels, while the hybrid engine was a 2.0L inline-four.
Engine Performance & Technology
All the A6's gasoline engines from the third generation onward use Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) or its turbo version, TFSI. Audi's TFSI engines combine turbocharging and direct fuel injection, directly injecting fuel into the combustion chambers, enhancing performance and efficiency.
Audi employs the Common Rail Direct Injection or the Turbocharged Direct Injection for its diesel engines.
Safety & Reliability
Time and time again, the A6 has proven its safety by scoring top marks in the Euro New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). The fifth generation, which scored five stars, features an ultra-strength steel-aluminum hybrid constructed body and advanced safety systems like Audi's pre-sense front system that helps avoid collisions with other road users. Older versions like the 2004 get a wealth of safety features as standard, such as dual front airbags, side airbags, head-protecting side curtains, ABS brakes, and electronic stability control.
Trim Configurations
Trims for the fourth generation A6 are the Premium, Premium Plus, and the top-of-the-line Prestige get adaptive headlights, keyless ignition, a rearview camera, and a premium Bose audio system. The S6 is the performance version of the A6 and gets Audi's quattro 4WD system as standard alongside more powerful engines, sportier suspensions, and other performance-boosting features.
Conclusion
Audi's A6 is a high-quality luxury car that performs reliably. With an A6, you'll be in safe hands. Find an affordable used A6 in excellent condition here at BE FORWARD.
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