Audi A6 2011 review

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.

TECHNOLOGY

The 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.

DESIGN

The 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.

DRIVING

We 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 GLANCE

Price: from $80,000.
Warranty: 3 years/unlimited
Service interval: 15,000km/12months
Engine: TFSi 3.0 supercharged petrol V6, 220kW/440Nm FSi 2.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol V6, 150kW/280Nm.
Body: Four-door sedan
Weight: 1725kg
Transmission: 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)