In this entry-level 201bhp 2.0-litre diesel form, the A6 is a tad slow off the mark, but only because its standard seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox hesitates when you put your foot down. It's plenty brisk enough thereafter, though with 0-62mph taking 8.1sec, and more efficient than the equivalent BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class in real-world conditions. Automatic only, and we prefer the front-wheel drive, non-Quattro version