News > Audi A6 Review, Is It Still The Business Class Benchmark? Lets Find Out

Audi A6 Review, Is It Still The Business Class Benchmark? Lets Find Out

Audi A6 Review, Is It Still The Business Class Benchmark? Lets Find Out

Finding a car these days really can feel truly special when you find the best one, but can it still handle the daily grind of our British motorways, as this can be tough. Most executive cars are either too firm, too flashy, or just lack the space your family actually needs.

So much so that there really is nothing worse than arriving at a business meeting feeling drained by road noise, or even just struggling to fit the weekly shop into a cramped boot. As a result, you should not have to compromise on comfort just to get a premium badge.

The new Audi A6, for instance, could just be your answer here. As it combines whisper-quiet refinement with class-leading technology and a massive boot - more on that later - making it the perfect all-rounder for work and home.

But, is it right for you? Well lets find out.

Table of Contents

Audi A6 Saloon Exterior

Quick Guide to Naming & Tax at a Glance

We know that car terminology can get complicated, so here is a quick visual cheat sheet to help you decide which A6 is right for your driveway:

If you want... Look for this name... Main Benefit
Petrol or Diesel Audi A6 (TDI/TFSI) Traditional power & long-range ease.
Lowest Company Tax Audi A6 50 TFSI e 9% BiK rate; save £4,500+ per year.
100% Electric Audi A6 e-tron Zero emissions & futuristic design.
Maximum Space Audi A6 Avant Large, square boot for dogs & luggage.

First Impressions, Of Its Design and Kerb Appeal

Well, the first thing you notice about the Audi A6 is its "sharp" look.

In fact, here it's no secret that Audi designers really are masters of the clean line. So much so that at the front, you get the signature wide ‘Singleframe’ grille, which will give your car a planted, powerful stance from the off.

Lighting

Then one of the first things you will notice is your car's lighting, as here one of Audi’s biggest selling points has always been its lighting technology.

For instance, even on the entry-level models, you get crisp LED headlights, and if you opt for the higher trim levels, you get Matrix LED lights as well - more on that in a bit.

We especially liked that these are incredibly clever in our view, as they allow you to keep your full beams on at night without dazzling oncoming drivers by "cutting out" a box of light around the other car, which is pretty clever.

Exterior Look

In our view, the Audi A6 is the master of the "understated" look, and it does not need huge wings or fake vents to get noticed, either. You will be glad to hear.

Instead, it uses its crisp lines and perfect proportions to show its quality.

As here it looks just as good parked outside a country hotel as it does in a city-centre office block, which we especially like.

The Front Gives You A Powerful Stance

After the lighting, the next thing you will notice is the Singleframe grille.

As here it’s both wide and low, which makes the car look planted and stable on the road. Then on either side are the slim, sharp headlights that give the A6 its "focused" expression, which do look great.

However, depending on the trim you choose, the front bumper will change its personality.

For example, the Audi A6 Sport models look clean and very stylish, while the Audi A6 S Line adds larger air intakes and a honeycomb pattern for a more aggressive, sporty feel as well, allowing you top personal the look to your taste and what you are after, which is a nice option to have.

Side Profile, Where You Can Get Your "Quattro" Muscles

From the side, the A6 looks long and expensive.

The Audi designers have really used three distinct lines to give the car its shape. All while the most famous to note are the "Quattro blisters" - subtle bulges over the wheel arches that remind you and passersby of Audi’s famous all-wheel-drive heritage.

Doors

The doors, for instance, feature a sharp "Tornado Line" that runs the full length of the car, connecting the headlights to the taillights.

This, in turn, makes the car look like it is moving even when it is standing still, which is nice.

Roofline, Sleek and Stylish

The A6 also has a very aerodynamic roofline.

This, for instance, slopes gently towards the back, giving it a silhouette that is almost like a coupe.

However, this is not just for looks; it helps the car cut through the air silently, which reduces your wind noise in the cabin and improves your fuel economy at the same time as well.

Pro Tip: If you opt for the Audi A6 Black Edition, the window surrounds are also finished in high-gloss black instead of chrome, which makes the roofline look even lower and sleeker in our expert opinion.

Audi A6 Saloon Rear Side View
Audi A6 Saloon Interior

The Rear, Both Wide and Modern

Then, at the back, the A6 is all about width.

Here, a slim chrome strip (or black on higher trims) runs between your rear lights, drawing your eye across the boot lid as it does so.

The lights themselves are also a highlight we liked as well - as they feature dynamic indicators that "sweep" in the direction you are turning, that many other high end bands do not offer the same level of style, and one that can clearly set you apart on the road from other road users as well.

Below the bumper, you will also find a diffuser that helps with your airflow, giving the car a tidy, high-tech finish that hides the exhaust pipes for a cleaner look too here.

Paint Colours

For your paint options, you have many to choose from, including, for instance:

Standard and Metallic Colours

  • Brilliant black
  • Brilliant blue
  • Brilliant red (only available on S6)
  • Dakar beige, metallic (not available on S6)
  • Aero blue, metallic (not available on S6)
  • Oyster grey, metallic (not available on S6)
  • Akoya silver, metallic (not available on S6)
  • Silver, metallic
  • Quartz grey, metallic

Pearl Effect Colours

  • Aurora blue, pearl effect
  • Canyon red, pearl effect (not available on S6)
  • Stratos blue, pearl effect
  • Deep green, pearl effect
  • Sprint blue, pearl effect (only available on S6)
  • Night blue, pearl effect
  • Phantom black, pearl effect

S line Exclusive Pearl Effect Colours

  • Avus silver, pearl effect (only available on S line)
  • Daytona grey, pearl effect (only available on S line)
  • Misano red, pearl effect (only available on S line)

Wheels, For The Perfect Finishing Touch

Lastly, for the exterior, we have the wheels, which can completely change how an Audi A6 looks on your driveway.

These can also vary, as you move up the range, as the wheels get larger and more intricate as you do so.

For instance, here you can have:

Audi A6 Sport Wheels

The Sport trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, and these are the perfect choice if you want the smoothest possible ride, as the larger tyres do a great job of soaking up bumps on rough UK roads while still looking stylish.

Audi A6 S Line Wheels

The S Line then features larger 19-inch 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels.

These, in turn, will fill the wheel arches more than the standard wheels do, giving the car a "hunkered-down" sporty stance that looks much more purposeful on the road as it does so.

Audi A6 Black Edition Wheels

Then the Black Edition steps up to 20-inch, or even 21-inch, wheels.

Finished in dark grey or matte titanium, these wheels are just designed for that maximum kerb appeal and give the A6 a modern, high-end look that really stands out as well.

Top Tip: While the larger 20-inch wheels look fantastic, the 18-inch wheels on the Sport model will provide you with the smoothest possible ride over bumpy UK roads.

If you are not sure which ones are right for you, then as an Authorised Audi UK Dealership, our team here at Sinclair Audi can help you decide which balance of style and comfort is right just for you.

Audi A6 Saloon Seats
Audi A6 Saloon Side View

Step Inside, Is This The Best Interior in the Business?

If you find the outside to be impressive, the inside is where the Audi A6 will truly leave the competition behind for a number of reasons, in our opinion.

As Audi has a reputation for building the best car interiors in the world, and as you will see, we are equally impressed with the interior here as the exterior.

First Impressions

Opening the door of an Audi A6 just feels like stepping into a high-end lounge.

The design is clean, horizontal, and uncluttered, and you won’t find a mess of plastic buttons here; instead, you are greeted by stylish and modern glass surfaces and brushed metal accents.

Overall, it just feels expensive because, well, it is. As Audi uses premium materials even in places you would not normally look, like the door bins and your lower dashboard, for example.

Comfort

Comfort though is where the A6 shines.

As this has been designed to be a "long-distance cruiser", this is clear to see. As your cabin is incredibly well-insulated, meaning that even at 70 MPH on a windy UK motorway, you can speak to your passengers in a whisper and still be heard, which we really liked.

The suspension and seat padding also all work together to help to soak up the bumps of our potholed British backroads as well, making every journey just feel truly effortless, we thought.

The Dashboard

The dashboard is then dominated by Audi’s "Black Panel" design, and when the car is switched off, the centre console looks like a seamless sheet of black glass.

Then once you start the engine, the screens come to life, and the dashboard angles slightly towards the driver, making you feel more like you are in control of a high-tech cockpit rather than just a family car in our view.

Infotainment and Driver Cluster

Moving to your Infotainment and Driver Cluster, Audi’s MMI Touch Response system is the heart of the interior, and it consists of two stacked screens:

  • Top Screen (10.1-inch)
  • Lower Screen (8.6-inch)

Top Screen (10.1-inch)

The primary 10.1-inch display is located at eye level, and this is your main hub for technology, controlling your 3D Satellite Navigation, DAB radio, and smartphone integration.

It also works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use your favourite mobile apps safely while driving, which is nice.

Lower Screen (8.6-inch)

The second 8.6-inch display then sits just below the main screen, and this is dedicated to your comfort, managing the climate control and air conditioning for you.

It also acts as a smart input pad; you can use your finger to write addresses or search terms like a notepad, for instance, and the car will recognise your handwriting instantly, which is pretty cool, and something that really does set the Audi apart.

Virtual Cockpit

Behind the steering wheel then sits the Virtual Cockpit.

This 12.3-inch digital display then replaces your traditional dials, allowing you to toggle between a classic view and a full-screen map, so you never have to look away from the road to see where your next turn is as a direct result.

Front Seats

The front seats in the A6 are highly adjustable, too.

For instance, even in the entry-level Sport trim, you get electric lumbar support to protect your back on long drives, which is a nice feature to have for those doing a lot of miles.

If you then step up to the S Line or Black Edition, you get "Sport Seats" with bigger side bolsters to hold you in place around corners as well.

However, for the ultimate luxury, "Contour Seats" are also available, offering you heating, cooling, and even a massage function if you want it.

White Audi A6 Saloon TFSI e
Audi A6 Saloon TFSI e Exterior

Rear Seats & Space

For your rear seats and space, the A6 is a "true five-seater."

Because the car is so wide, your rear passengers will have plenty of elbow room, which is a fact.

Their headroom is also excellent, even for tall adults, thanks to the clever shape of the roof.

All while their legroom is a particular highlight, as those in the back can easily stretch out comfortably.

And for those of you who have children, the ISOFIX points are easy to access as well, behind removable plastic covers, making it simple to click and secure a car seat into place within seconds as well.

The Boot Space

Practicality in your boot capacity also has not been forgotten, either, as here the A6 Saloon especially offers 530 litres of space.

It is also a deep boot, which will be perfect for sliding in long items like suitcases or flat-pack furniture as well.

Saloon vs. Avant Boot, Which is Right for You?

While the Audi A6 Saloon offers you a generous 530 litres of space - putting it neck-and-neck with the competitors such as BMW 5 Series (520L) and Mercedes E-Class (540L) - the numbers only tell half the story.

In the UK, models, for instance, the Audi A6 Avant (Estate) is often the preferred choice.

As here, while the litre capacity is similar on paper, the Avant provides you with a much more usable, "square" load space in our opinion.

This, in turn, makes it far easier to fit bulky items like furniture or a family dog, thanks to its wide opening and low load lip.

Pro Tip for Hybrid Buyers: Because the TFSI e (Hybrid) battery sits under the floor, your boot space drops to around 360 litres.

If you are opting for the hybrid but still need room for the weekly shop and school bags, we highly recommend upgrading to the Avant body style to maximise your vertical space here.

Upholstery

Depending on the trim level you choose, your seating materials may also vary.

For instance, here you can see variations around:

  • Meridian cloth, black
  • Meridian cloth, light grey
  • Meridian cloth, deep blue
  • Mondial cloth, black
  • Mondial cloth, light grey
  • Mondial cloth, deep blue
  • Mondial cloth, Cardamom beige
  • Mistral leather, black
  • Mistral leather, light grey
  • Leather/Alcantara, black
  • Leather/Alcantara, light grey
  • Leather/Alcantara, Cardamom beige
  • Volterra leather, black
  • Volterra leather, Amaretto brown
  • Volterra leather, light grey
  • Volterra leather, Deep blue
  • Volterra leather, Cardamom beige
  • Valcona leather, black
  • Valcona leather, Amaretto brown
  • Valcona leather, light grey
  • Valcona leather, Cardamom beige
  • Valcona leather, cream beige
  • Natural leather, black
  • Natural leather, beige
  • Speed cloth/leather, black

Sport, Twin Leather

The Sport model then comes with high-quality "Twin Leather" as standard.

This material is also designed to be incredibly durable and hard-wearing, making it a great choice for families, and it is very easy to wipe clean, ensuring your cabin stays looking fresh even after years of use.

S Line, Leather and Alcantara

In the S Line, you get a premium mix of real leather and Alcantara (a high-end, suede-like material).

These seats then feature the famous embossed 'S' logos on the backrests, and this combination does not just look sporty; the Alcantara provides you with extra grip, which prevents you from sliding around in your seat when driving on twisty country roads.

Black Edition and Vorsprung, Valcona Leather

For those who then want the ultimate luxury, the Black Edition and Vorsprung models often feature "Valcona Leather", as well.

This is then the highest grade of leather that Audi offers, and is amazing to feel we found, as it is also exceptionally soft to the touch and gives your interior a truly high-end, "Limousine" feel every time you step inside.

Audi A6 Avant Steering Wheel
Audi A6 Avant 7 Exterior

Technology

Beyond the screens, the A6 is also packed with "invisible" tech.

This includes wireless charging for your phone in the centre armrest and a 10-speaker sound system as standard.

For music lovers, the optional Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System is also a must-have in our view too, as this turns the cabin into a literal concert hall with 16 speakers and 705 watts of power at our command.

Ready to see it for yourself?

The photos and copy do not do the quality justice - trust us.

Instead, why not Book a viewing at your local Sinclair Audi showroom to feel the materials and test the Virtual Cockpit in person.

Trim Levels

For your trim levels, here you have a number to choose from, including, for instance:

So How Do The Different Audi A6 Models Differ From Each Other?

Here they differ in a number of ways.

For instance, when it comes to their equipment, as standard, you get:

Exterior & Styling (Standard)

  • 7.5J x 17 ‘5-spoke star’ alloy wheels with 225/50 R17 Y tyres
  • Body-coloured door mirrors, handles and bumpers
  • Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors
  • Front fog-lights, ellipsoidal, integrated into front apron
  • Light sensor for automatic activation of headlights
  • High-gloss pack with aluminium-look window-and door-handle trims with gloss-black B-pillar
  • Heat-insulating glass (green-tinted)
  • Heated rear window and heated windscreen-washer jets
  • Twin chrome exhaust pipes (downturned on diesel models)
  • Roof rails in aluminium (Avant models only)

Interior & Comfort (Standard)

  • Upholstery – Meridian cloth with Scuff plates featuring metal inlays
  • 4-spoke leather multi-function steering wheel (with paddle-shift on automatic models)
  • Automatic air-conditioning plus with separate air distribution and air-quality sensors
  • Cruise control for effortless long-distance driving
  • Driver’s Information System (DIS) with monochrome display
  • Centre armrests (front and rear); front hinged with storage compartment
  • Aluminium fascia and door trim inlays with aluminium-look MMI control knob and gear lever
  • Electric front and rear windows
  • Illuminated vanity mirrors integrated into front sun visors
  • Floor mats provided for both front and rear

Infotainment & Technology (Standard)

  • MMI with 6.5” monochrome screen and 10 loudspeakers (160 Watt total output)
  • DSP sound system for enhanced audio quality
  • Satellite Navigation system with route planning and guidance (2.0T FSI and 2.0 TDI only)

Safety & Security (Standard)

  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD)
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP) networking ABS, EBD, ASR, and EDL systems
  • Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) and Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) traction control
  • Airbags: Full-size for driver and passenger, plus side and Sideguard head airbag systems
  • Active front head restraints and head restraints for all five seats
  • ISOFIX child-seat mounting (front-left and outer-rear seats)
  • Thatcham Category 1 approved anti-theft alarm and electronic immobiliser
  • Electromechanical Parking Brake
  • Servotronic speed-dependent power steering
  • Central locking with radio remote-control and electric child locks

Practicality & Storage (Standard)

  • Split-folding rear seats (Avant and quattro Saloon models only)
  • Large glove box (passenger side), lockable for security
  • Cup holders in the front centre console and rear seats
  • Load area concept with rail system, lashing points, and folding floor (Avant models only)
  • 12V power socket in luggage compartment (Avant models only)
  • Tool kit and full-size alloy spare wheel

Avant Model Specific Standard Equipment

  • 12V power socket in luggage compartment
  • Load area concept with rail system, lashing points and folding load-area floor
  • Luggage compartment cover and partition net
  • Roof rails in aluminium
  • Rear window wash/wipe

Model Specific Standard Equipment (2.0T FSI and 2.0 TDI)

  • CD changer located in glove compartment
  • Satellite Navigation system with route planning and guidance using voice and pictogram instructions
  • Exterior and Styling
    • 8J x 18 ‘5-arm’ design alloy wheels with 245/40 R18 Y tyres
    • S line body styling (front bumper and rear diffuser in sports design)
    • Radiator grille in S line design
    • S line badge (front grille and side wing)
    • Headlight washers
  • Interior Features
    • Front Sports seats with S line logo, including electrically adjustable lumbar support for both front seats
    • Seat upholstery with seat-side sections in black leather and seat-centre section in black Speed cloth
    • Leather-covered 3-spoke S line multi-function steering wheel (with paddle-shift gear-change for automatic models)
    • Gear knob in perforated leather
    • Black cloth headlining
    • Matt-brushed aluminium fascia and door trims
  • Performance and Handling
    • S line Sports suspension
    • Enhanced brake system (3.2 FSI and 3.0 TDI only)

Additional standard equipment for S6 quattro models over A6 standard model

  • 19” 5-arm ‘Wing’ design alloy wheels with 265/35 R19 Y tyres
  • 6-speed tiptronic automatic transmission
  • 80-litre fuel tank
  • Aluminium-look wing mirrors
  • Black-painted brake callipers featuring the S6 logo at front (15” brake disks at front, 13” at rear)
  • Carbon Atlas inlays
  • Coloured instrument inserts with white needles
  • Distinctive LED daytime-running strip lights integrated in the bumper
  • Driver’s Information System (DIS), in colour
  • Dual-branch oval exhaust system (4 tailpipes)
  • DVD Satellite Navigation system
  • Full-size spare wheel
  • Interior light package. Includes lighting under the exterior mirrors and ambient lighting of the centre console and front and rear door trim panels. Also includes active door reflectors in front and rear doors, footwell lights with LED technology at front and rear and rear-door exit lights.
  • Leather trimmed 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel with ‘S6’ logo and contrasting stitching and gear-change shift paddles in aluminium look
  • Leather/Alcantara ‘S’ Sports seats – electrically adjustable with electric lumbar support
  • MMI High. Multi-Media Interface operating system for vehicle and infotainment functions. Includes high-resolution 7” TFT colour display
  • ‘S’ gear knob in leather and aluminium
  • ‘S’ grille (platinum grey): double vertically-oriented chrome struts, S6 badge
  • ‘S’ rear spoiler
  • ‘S’ specific bumpers
  • ‘S’ specific Sports chassis with latest-generation quattro drive, incorporating a 40/60 rear-biased torque-split
  • S6 door-sill trim in aluminium look
  • Split-folding rear seats
  • Storage pack
  • V10 badge on wheel arch below indicator
  • Xenon Plus headlights including headlight washers

Engines and Performance, Where Power Meets Efficiency

For your engines here, Audi offers you a range to suit every type of driver in the UK.

For instance, here you have:

Engine Type Best For... Key Benefit
40 TDI (Diesel) Long-distance motorway driving High fuel economy (50+ mpg)
40 TFSI (Petrol) City driving & short commutes Quiet and punchy performance
50 TFSI e (Hybrid) Business users (Low BIK) 40 miles of electric-only range

What is it Like on a British B-Road? (Real MPG)

While the official laboratory figures (WLTP) look great on a brochure, we know that driving through the Cotswolds or tackling a rainy A-road in Wales is a different story.

So let's look at the Audi A6's real MPG figures to give you some idea of how these stack up.

Real-World Efficiency

In our testing, the Audi A6 40 TDI (Diesel) is still the king of the long-distance run, especially against cars such as the BMW 5 Series.

While Audi claims up to 50 MPG, we found that on a steady motorway cruise at 70 mph, you can actually see closer to 55-56 MPG in our testing.

On twisty B-roads where you are on and off the throttle, though you should expect that to settle around 44 MPG on average.

If you then opt for the 50 TFSI e (Hybrid), the "Real MPG" depends entirely on your charging habits.

For instance, here if you start with a full battery, you will easily manage over 100 MPG on short school runs.

However, once that battery is flat on a long trip, the petrol engine has to work harder, and you will likely see around 38-40 MPG here.

Handling the "Pothole Challenge"

British roads are not exactly what shall we say, famous for being smooth.

The A6, though, does handle them with a "firm but fair" attitude.

For instance, on the standard 18-inch wheels, it glides over imperfections really well, we feel, and if you go for the 20-inch wheels on the Black Edition, you will feel the sharper bumps a bit more, but the cabin remains remarkably rattle-free - showing you just how well these cars are screwed together in opur opinion.

Audi A6 Avant Boot With A Dog In It
Audi A6 Avant Rear Side View

Quattro All-Wheel Drive

Many A6 models can also come with Audi’s famous Quattro system.

In the UK, where roads are often wet or greasy, Quattro provides you with an extra layer of security by sending power to the wheels with the most grip, for example.

How it Works on the Road

On quattro models, the car’s power is constantly shared between the front and back wheels, and the system is clever enough to change how much power each wheel gets depending on the situation:

Weather

The quattro system will also provide you with that extra grip you need as well when British weather takes a turn for the worse.

As here it helps prevent the wheels from spinning when the roads are slippery due to heavy rain, frost, or ice, keeping you moving safely.

Road Surface

Whether you are driving on smooth motorways or uneven country lanes, the system handles different surfaces with ease.

It does so as it constantly monitors the road and shares power between the wheels to ensure the car stays stable and planted.

Gradients

Quattro technology is also a huge help when tackling steep hills or driveways, as by sharing the engine's power across all four wheels, helping the car climb gradients without losing traction or struggling for grip.

Pro Tip: This is the same famous technology that has given Audi a massive advantage on racetracks for over 25 years. It is available on selected A6 models and comes as standard on the high-performance S6.

Petrol Engines

Audi also offers you two types of petrol engines for this model: standard petrol and the advanced FSI® direct-injection engine.

In fact, these were originally developed for endurance racing, as FSI technology allows the engine to breathe better, which provides you with more power and torque while actually using less fuel as it does so.

All in all, this is the perfect choice for drivers who want a sporty feel without the high tax bills or fuel costs often found with big engines.

Diesel Engines (TDI®)

All Audi diesel engines here will also use TDI® (Turbo Direct Injection) technology.

In fact, this was actually pioneered by Audi to replace the noisy, thirsty diesel engines of the past, and these modern engines use a turbocharger to force fresh air into the cylinders, ensuring you get the most performance and economy out of every single drop of fuel that enters the tank.

Gearbox and Transmission Options

Beyond the classic manual gearbox, Audi offers you two innovative automatic options to make your drive smoother as well, consisting of:

Multitronic®

Available on front-wheel-drive models, the multitronic gearbox provides exceptionally smooth acceleration.

Because it does not have traditional fixed gears, it can keep the engine at its most efficient speed at all times.

Instead, it uses advanced electronics to monitor how you are using the accelerator and the slope of the road, helping to reduce fuel consumption while keeping the drive comfortable.

Tiptronic

The 6-speed Tiptronic system is then used on models with Quattro four-wheel-drive.

As a result, this is built for drivers who want a sportier experience from their Audi A6, offering you fast, crisp gear changes.

This also features a 'Sport' programme that responds quickly to your inputs and even helps prevent unwanted gear changes while you are going around corners as well.

Audi A6 Avant Interior
Audi A6 Infotainment

Engine Performance

For your engine performance and specs, here you have:

Audi A6 Saloon Performance and Economy

Engine Transmission Combined MPG 0-62 mph (secs) Top Speed (mph)
2.0T FSI (Petrol) 6-speed manual 34.5 8.4 141
3.2 FSI quattro (Petrol) 6-speed manual 25.4 6.8 155
S6 quattro (Petrol) 6-speed tiptronic 21.1 5.2 155
2.0 TDI (Diesel) 6-speed manual 44.1 10.3 130
3.0 TDI quattro (Diesel) 6-speed manual 34.9 6.9 153

Audi A6 Avant Performance and Economy

Engine Transmission Combined MPG 0-62 mph (secs) Top Speed (mph)
2.0T FSI (Petrol) 6-speed manual 34.5 8.7 138
3.2 FSI quattro (Petrol) 6-speed manual 25.4 7.0 155
4.2 Quattro (Petrol) 6-speed tiptronic 23.9 6.1 155
2.0 TDI (Diesel) 6-speed manual 44.1 10.5 127
2.7 TDI (Diesel) 7-speed multitronic 35.8 8.3 136

Audi Naming Strategy, A6 vs. A7 Explained

There has also been a lot of talk recently about Audi changing how they name their cars, and it can be a bit "bamboozling" if you haven't kept up with the news, to be honest.

Originally, Audi actually planned to move all petrol and diesel cars to "Odd" numbers (like A5 and A7) and keep "Even" numbers for Electric vehicles.

However, after listening to feedback from drivers who love the A6 name, they have simplified things again for 2026.

For instance, here you have:

The Audi A6 (ICE)

This remains the petrol and diesel model you know and love (available as a Saloon or Avant).

The Audi A6 e-tron

This is the 100% electric version. It looks different and sits on a special electric-only platform, but it keeps the "A6" badge to show its size and premium status.

The Audi A7

This name is now being used for the sleek "Sportback" models that sit just above the A6 in the range.

The Bottom Line

If you want a combustion engine or a hybrid, you are still looking for an Audi A6 TFSI or TDI.

However, if you want to go fully electric, you are looking for the Audi A6 e-tron.

Audi A6 Avant Exterior
Blue Audi A6 Avant Exterior

BiK Tax, Why the Audi A6 TFSI e is a "Tax Hack"?

If you are choosing the Audi A6 as a company car, your engine choice is the difference between paying for a luxury holiday every year or giving that money to the taxman - to put that into perspective as well.

As here while a traditional diesel (40 TDI) is excellent for long-distance fuel economy, it is heavily penalised by the UK’s Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax system.

As the Audi A6 50 TFSI e (Plug-in Hybrid), however, is designed specifically to reward you as a business user with massive savings here.

BiK Tax Comparison (2025/26 Tax Year)

Because the A6 50 TFSI e can drive over 40 miles on pure electric power, for instance, this actually makes it fall into a significantly lower tax bracket than its petrol or diesel siblings.

For instance, here you have:

Feature Audi A6 40 TDI (Diesel) Audi A6 50 TFSI e (Hybrid)
CO2 Emissions ~145g/km ~29g/km
BiK Tax Band 34% - 37% 8% - 9%*
Annual Tax (40% Taxpayer) ~£6,200 ~£1,650
Monthly Cost to You £516 / month £137 / month

Please Note: *The 8% rate applies to models registered before April 2025; for the 2025/26 tax year, the rate for new registrations is 9%, but this is still a fraction of the cost of a diesel equivalent.

Key Benefits for Business Users

These can include, for instance:

Massive Personal Savings

By choosing the 50 TFSI e over a diesel 40 TDI, a higher-rate taxpayer can save over £4,500 per year in personal tax.

Fuel-Free Commuting

Complete your daily commute on pure electricity, virtually eliminating your fuel spend.

No "Diesel Surcharge"

The TFSI e avoids the 4% diesel supplement, keeping your monthly outgoings predictable.

Affordable Luxury

Because the tax is so low, you can often "upgrade" to the Black Edition or Vorsprung trim for a lower monthly cost than a basic diesel model.

Ready to run the numbers?

Our team at Sinclair Audi can provide a personalised tax quote based on your specific salary and trim preference, so Contact our Fleet Team today to see how we can help you and your business.

Audi A6 Avant Bonnet
Audi A6 Saloon in Grey

How Does it Compare to Competitors?

This car compares to competitor offerings in a number of ways, including, for instance:

Feature Audi A6 (2026) BMW 5 Series (2026) Mercedes E-Class (2026)
Primary Focus The Refined All-Rounder The Driver's Saloon The Luxury Cruiser
Interior Highlight MMI Dual-Touchscreen Glass Cockpit Curved Display with iDrive Controller MBUX "Superscreen" & Ambient Lighting
Boot Space (Saloon) 530 Litres 520 Litres 540 Litres
Driving Character Quiet, stable (Quattro), and refined Sharpest handling and engaging feel Maximum comfort and soft ride
Best PHEV Option 50 TFSI e (Hybrid) 530e (Hybrid) E 300 e (Hybrid)
BIK Tax (Company Car) Approx. 8% (PHEV models) Approx. 8% - 12% Approx. 5% - 8% (EV Range dependent)

So in essence, the Audi A6 currently competes very well on price and interior tech with its competitors. While the BMW 5 Series was recently refreshed (2024), the Audi A6 remains the "sensible, high-quality" choice still today here.

This is even more of a consideration if you update the technical specs on the one you want to buy as well, as this will in turn give you a lot more features.

Its Safety Ratings, Does It Give You Peace of Mind for You and Your Family?

Looking at its safety ratings, especially when you are carrying precious cargo - whether it’s the family or your colleagues - safety is just non-negotiable.

As a result, we are pleased to report that the Audi A6 continues to hold the maximum 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

But it’s not just about how the car handles a crash; it’s about how it prevents one as well.

Audi Pre-Sense

That is why every Audi A6 comes packed with "Pre-Sense" technology.

This system acts as an extra set of eyes, monitoring the road ahead and automatically tensioning seatbelts or applying the brakes if it senses an unavoidable collision.

Lane Assist

You also get Lane Assist as standard, which gently nudges the steering wheel if you begin to drift out of your lane on the motorway, and a high-resolution reversing camera to make tight city parking a breeze.

Reliability and the Audi Warranty

For its reliability and warranty, Audi has a hard-earned reputation for "Vorsprung Durch Technik" (Progress through Technology), and the A6 is a prime example of German engineering at its best.

To give you total peace of mind, for instance, every new Audi A6 comes with a 3-year or 60,000-mile warranty (whichever comes first). This covers the cost of any electrical or mechanical repairs needed during that period.

Grey Audi A6 Saloon
Audi A6 Saloon Rear View

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below are also some FAQs we get asked about when it comes to the A6.

Does the Audi A6 have a 5-star safety rating?

Yes, the Audi A6 has been awarded the full 5-star rating by Euro NCAP, scoring particularly highly for adult and child occupant protection.

What is the difference between the A6 and the A7 in 2026?

The A6 remains the core Saloon and Estate (Avant) model. The A7 is now the name used for the sleeker "Sportback" body style with a sloping roofline.

How long is the Audi A6 warranty?

Every new Audi comes with a 3-year warranty. This is limited to 60,000 miles in the third year, but provides unlimited mileage coverage for the first two years.

Is the Audi A6 50 TFSI e good for company car drivers?

Absolutely, because it is a Plug-in Hybrid with a high electric-only range, it qualifies for a much lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate compared to standard petrol or diesel models.

So is the Audi A6 Right For You - the Sinclair Verdict?

Well, as you can see, the Audi A6 manages to strike a great balance that others just can't.

It isn't as "shouty" as a Mercedes, for instance, and it is not as stiff as a BMW.

Instead, it offers you the choice of being a stylish, hi-tech, and incredibly comfortable middle ground car ideal for any executive or family alike.

Overall, we will give the Audi A6, a 9.5 / 10.

If you like this Audi A6 review, you may also like other similar car reviews and guides such as:

Who is Sinclair Group?

Here at the Sinclair Group, we are a prominent family-owned motor retailer based in South Wales with a rich history dating back to 1945. Founded by Bill Sinclair in Port Talbot, our company has grown significantly over the decades.

Today, we operate 25 dealerships representing 12 prestigious automotive brands, including new Audi cars, new BYD cars, new Mercedes-Benz cars, new Land Rover cars to name just some of our 12 car brands.

We are also authorised and regulated by the FCA and also have competitive car leasing deals, new and used car offers, which can also be split over manageable monthly payments if needed as well.

We also employ around 900 staff members, many of whom have been with the Group for over a decade, reflecting our dedication to our employee development and satisfaction as well.

Audi A5 Avant Exterior

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About Us

Sinclair Group is one of the UKs leading automotive retail groups, delivering exceptional vehicle sales, finance, and aftersales service across Wales and the West of England.

Sinclair Garages Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (ref: 305925). Our other group companies , Sinclair Garages (Bridgend) Limited, Sinclair Garages (Newport) Limited, Sinclair Garages (Cardiff) Limited and Sinclair Garages (Swansea) Limited, are Appointed Representatives of Sinclair Garages Limited. You can check this on the FCA's register by visiting the FCA's website www.fca.org.uk/firms/financial-services-register or by contacting the FCA on 0800 111 6768. Our permitted business is the supply of motor vehicles and associated products and services, including Finance and Insurance. We are a Credit Broker not a Lender. We do not charge for this service but will receive a commission from our finance partners. The nature of the commission is either fixed flat fee or fixed percentage of the balance funded. 

© 2026 Sinclair. All Rights Reserved. Sinclair Group is the brand name for all of our limited companies. Registered in England and Wales. Registered Address: Sinclair Group | Old Field Road | Bocam Park | Pencoed | CF35 5LJ. Registered number: 1192572.

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