Used 2009 Audi A6

The midsize 2009 Audi A6 is the ideal vehicle for the socially mobile family in need of generous interior space and all-wheel-drive capability, but not at all interested in an SUV. Offered in both sedan and wagon (known as the Avant) forms, the A6 combines traditional Audi styling, luxury and performance with the sure-footedness of quattro all-wheel drive. Larger than the A4, but not as bulky (or expensive) as the A8, the A6 offers a range of models and features with broad appeal to the premium midsize luxury sedan buyer.

In the 2009 Audi A6, supreme confidence on both expressways and winding roads is markedly enhanced by the sure-footed feel of quattro all-wheel drive. Acceleration is quite satisfying with the V6 and the automatic transmission responds effectively. No, it’s not a powerhouse, but few drivers really need the V8’s extra horses. A nice compromise between the two is the all-new 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that develops 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Only if you get a thrill from lunging, full-throttle takeoffs would the V8 be a better bet. Overall, the A6 experience falls just a little short of serene – mainly because the ride can get bouncy on washboard-stiff surfaces and through harsher bumps, though the suspension reacts rapidly.

From the driver’s seat, the A6 comes across as one serious sedan. Leather surfaces are inviting, though seats are on the firm side. They’re satisfying for long-term touring, however, with helpful but not intrusive support and bolstering. Backseat riders get plenty of headroom and knee space, but the center passenger must suffer the indignity of a stiff perch and a high floor hump. Fully calibrated gauges are especially easy to read, though the MMI (Multi Media Interface) control can be a handful. Don’t expect an unobstructed view over the left shoulder, but visibility is good otherwise. An electronic dashboard button opens a glove box that is short on space.

The new look of Audi is evident across the A6 body. Up front, a bold trapezoidal grille – tall and split into two elements – is flanked by sleek xenon headlamps and available LED daytime running lights; LEDs also comprise the rear taillights. Designer Achim Badstubner says it’s the kind of dramatic front end that promises "overtaking prestige on the Autobahn," informing drivers who see it coming in the rearview mirror that a serious machine is on its way.

Quattro All-Wheel Drive
For negotiating curvy canyons or snowy streets, Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel-drive system gives the A6 a real advantage.

Multi Media Interface
Although it subjects its operator to a learning curve, Audi’s MMI system is a sleek solution for the control of in-cabin technology.

Even in its most basic form, the A6 feels loaded to the brim. Standard features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), front and rear fog lights, front and rear head-curtain airbags, 8-way power driver and passenger seats with four-way power lumbar, leather seating, tilt/telescopic steering wheel with touch controls, one touch up/down windows, cruise control, power trunk release, 10-speaker sound system with six-disc CD/MP3 changer and iPod integration system. Also standard is a power sunroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. The 3.0T adds a supercharged engine, quattro all-wheel drive and 18-inch wheels, while the V8 models get heated front seats, Bose audio, power adjustable steering column and bi-xenon adaptive head lamps.

Options vary by trim and include such fine features as bi-xenon headlamps, Bose audio, Audi Side Assist lane change assist and 18-or 19-inch wheels. The Cold Weather package includes heated seats (front and rear) and a heated steering wheel. DVD navigation, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera are also available.

While the 3.2-liter V6 is more than sufficient to move the A6, the few extra dollars spent on the 3.0-liter supercharged engine is probably well worth it. It’s simply a matter of how quickly you wish to be moved. The 3.2-liter V6 is smooth, quiet and refined, delivering excellent low-end torque for quick starts, as well as respectable highway fuel economy. The V8 turns the A6 from quick to remarkably quick, but you’ll pay a premium at both the dealership and the gas pump.

3.2-liter V6
255 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
243 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/27 (FWD), 17/25 (AWD)

3.0-liter V6, supercharged
300 horsepower @ 5100 rpm
310 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26

4.2-liter V8
350 horsepower @ 6600 rpm
325 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/23