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Audi A6 3.0T Quattro S-Tronic
22 Feb 2012
Below The Radar. The new A6 may lack visual punch, but it’s got a lot going for it elsewhere |
When I heard the new Audi A6 was parked in our garage, I was curious to see if it would invoke the same emotions in me that the A7 and A8 do – those are both brilliant offerings.
The A6 was launched into this segment alongside the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes Benz E Class to mix it up a little, however, it’s outdone in the style stakes. Its exterior design, although similar to that of its big brothers, is a lot less exciting. The immediate visual appeal sadly lacks imagination. The grille and lights are typically Audi and the side is almost slab-like. I did fancy the performance promise of those 17-inch alloy wheels though.
Priced at around half a bar, the A6’s inner beauty thoroughly makes up for its dull exterior. Typical German attention to detail in the cabin exudes luxury and class and the stitching on the Milano leather seats is flawless. Quality and comfort are undoubtedly the order of the day and the Audi A6 has definitely got the upper hand over its compatriots when it comes to modern interior design. The pop-up screen, MMI system, seamless stop/start function, Audi Drive Select with efficiency mode and wireless Bluetooth technology are testament to this.
I always feel top-notch driving cars of this calibre and when the engine responds to my commands as instantaneously as the mill in the Audi A6, I am one happy driver. The new A6 is also significantly lighter than the previous model, which obviously plays a role in its improved performance on the road. Audi has also ensured that every component of the new A6 is geared towards absolute efficiency and minimal fuel consumption.
Under the bonnet lies a supercharged three-litre V6 engine that pumps out 220kW and 440Nm and takes the A6 from 0-100 in a mere 5.6 seconds.
Unfortunately, most of the driving I did in this powerhouse was on city roads and short highway stretches. I would love to have taken to the open roads and tested this machine to the limits instead, but one can only imagine how pleasurable a long journey in the A6 would be. Be that as it may, I was more than happy to test the promised fuel economy, luxury and safety in city conditions. It wasn’t all bad - after all, potholes are an everyday hazard around town.
Next Page : Verdict & specs
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