2012 Audi A6 - Review

With a fresher image, a more premium feel, and an eye toward taking the fight to the competition, the 2012 Audi A6 represents an important step for Audi, but is it up to the task? MotorAuthority rates the 2012 A6 a solid 8 out of 10.

Like the rest of Audi's 2012 lineup, the A6 gets a new, brand-defined front end, a smooth, uncluttered body, and a clean, attractive interior. It's not quite the head-swiveler that the new A7 is, and it's larger and less athletic-looking than the new A4, but on the whole, the look works well for the 2012 A6.

Under the hood, the A6 packs a range of engines, from a 2.0-liter turbo four to our pick, the 310-horsepower supercharged V-6. Mated with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the drivetrain is very similar to the A7's, and that's a good thing: power is ample, fuel economy is decent, and everything operates smoothly and quietly. The four-cylinder, however, gets a CVT transmission, none of which are to our liking, and doesn't offer a whole lot of appeal over the smaller A4 except for the slightly larger cabin.

The interior, in addition to looking sharp, is chock full of technology, just as you'd expect if you've been watching the 2012 A7 and A8: Google Earth integration with the navigation system in particular is a killer app, and wireless in-car Internet is an added bonus, meaning your existing supply of pocketable and totable electronics don't have to sit idly by until you reach your destination--or suck down spotty 3G coverage along the way. A Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker audio system is available on the highest-trim model, and Bluetooth, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-view camera are also available.

For the lover of a conservatively-styled, comfortable, sporty (in supercharged v-6 trim), classy sedan, the 2012 A6 may be just the ticket--particularly if you're not moved by BMW or Mercedes' latest styles. On the other hand, the 2012 A4 is not much smaller, costs quite a bit less, and is available with most of the same features; likewise, the 2012 A7 isn't too much more expensive, offers more cargo room, and looks amazing. The A6 may be too Goldilocks for its own good.

For the full details on the 2012 Audi A6, read our review at TheCarConnection.