If you like the way Audis look and need something bigger than an A4 and smaller than an A8 then, numerically, the A6 is for you. What do you need to know before you buy a An Audi A6 or S6? Don’t worry, we’ll tell you everything right here in our Buyer’s Guide.
You can’t go wrong with any of the cars in this segment as they’re all a variation on the same them of reasonably sized transportation that’s as comfortable as possible and luxurious without being too audacious.
The Audi may be one of the most comfortable while being the least audacious. Even in S6 trim, with a comfortable 450 horsepower pumping out of its V8, the S6 doesn’t scream “I’M RICH, BITCH!”
That may be to its advantage. If you were to pull a bank heist you could do worse than the large, strong, capably handling A6 or S6. Of course, if you’re buying one of these it’s more likely that you’re running the bank instead of robbing it.
What’s New About The 2016 Audi A6
The fourth generation “C7” Audi A6 has been gracing American roads with its sleek styling since the 2012 model year. The new generation A6 was lighter and larger than its predecessor, and offered a slew of new tech and safety features. Available engines at launch were either a 2.0-liter turbo four or a 3.0-liter supercharged V6.
The second year of production, 2013, brought a 4.0-liter 420-horsepower V8-powered S6 trim. For the A6, the four pot got optional all-wheel drive and the V6 got start/stop technology. The next year brought the ridiculously torquey 3.0-liter turbodiesel TDI variant along with a few tweaks to standard and optional content on other trims.
In 2015, Audi made a few changes to standard safety options and optional package, but 2016 was the big year for the A6 with fresh new styling with new LED headlights and a revised front fascia. The rear gets some new exhaust tips, and the interior gets revamped as well. All gas engines, including the 2.0-liter I4, 3.0L V6 and 4.0L V8 get bumps in horsepower for the 2016 model year.
And more horsepower equals more better.
In mid November 2015, Volkswagen put a stop-sale on the 3.0-liter diesel due to an emissions cheat.
Which One We’d Buy
The Audi S6 scoots to 60 mph in the low 4.0s, will move your mother-in-law without any complaints, and looks crisp while doing it. Still, the Audi A6 with the 3.0-liter TDI is no slouch and will absolutely destroy highway miles with its 38 mpg highway. Just throw the S-Line sports package on it and for about $60,000 you have one of the all-time sleekest cruisers.
[Build Your Own Audi A6] [Build Your Own Audi S6]
Important Facts At A Glance:
MSRP: $46,200 - $75,300 Top Speed: 155 MPH [S6]
Acceleration: ~4.4s to 60 [S6]
MPG: 25 city/ 38 hwy / 29 combined [A6 TDI]
Engines: 2L turbo I4, 3L supercharged V6, 3.0L turbodiesel, 4.0L turbo V8
Max Horsepower/Torque: 450 hp/406 lb-ft [S]
Curb Weight: ~3,803-4,486 pounds IIHS Rating: Top Safety Pick +
Transmissions: 8-speed automatic, 7-speed dual clutch automatic
Drivetrain Layout: Front engine, FWD/AWD
Photo credit: Audi