Used Audi A6 2004 - 2011 review

What's the used Audi A6 Saloon like?

If you're looking to travel in business class, but want to stick to an economy budget, the Audi A6 has all you need in a saloon at a sensible price.

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Overview

A used A6 gives you a lot of car for the money, yet it's good to drive, reliable and needn't cost a fortune to run.

Pros

• Well equipped
• Go for a smooth diesel engine and running costs are kept low
• Superbly refined

Cons

• Electrical and air-con problems
• Ride is firm
• Light steering not to all tastes

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Audi A6 Saloon

2.0 TDI SE 4dr

£1,199

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2.0 TDI SE CVT 4dr

£1,695

Audi A6 Saloon

2.0 TDI S line Special Edition Euro 5 4dr

£1,990

Audi A6 Saloon

2.0 TDI SE 4dr

£1,990

Audi A6 Saloon

3.0 TDI Le Mans quattro 4dr

£1,995

Audi A6 Saloon

3.2 FSI SE quattro 4dr

£1,995

Audi A6 Saloon

2.7 TDI Le Mans 4dr

£1,995

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2.0 TDIe S line Euro 5 4dr

£2,000

Audi A6 Saloon

2.0 TDI S line CVT 4dr

£2,000

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The A6 manages to blend refinement with a sporty drive. Its firm suspension allows nimble handling, with plenty of grip, but it can feel unsettled on bumpy roads. The light steering may feel unusual at first, but it does make low-speed manoeuvring easier. Wind and road noise are kept at bay - even at motorway speeds. You rarely hear the engine unless you're in a vocal V8 version.

There's generous head- and legroom inside for four adults; the fifth seat is best reserved for children because of a high transmission tunnel. The boot is suitably cavernous and, on some models, the rear seats fold down. Fit and finish are flawless, with high quality materials.

Our recommendations

Which used Audi A6 Saloon should I buy?

The diesels are best: they are far more common than the petrols, and hold their value better. The entry-level 138bhp 2.0-litre TDI performs well in such a large car. If you want more performance, then the smooth 178bhp 2.7-litre V6 is the next best option, with the 233bhp 3.0-litre V6 diesel the quickest, but also the rarest.

Consider a petrol model, though, if the price is right. The turbocharged 2.0-litre has 165bhp, then there are three V6s and two V8s with between 177 and 345bhp. The 2.0 and smallest V6 are the best options.

Quattro four-wheel drive is an option with the mid-sized engines and standard on the largest. While it does improve handling and traction, it doesn't make an already accomplished car an awful lot better. The automatic gearboxes are smooth and feel well matched to the engines.

Opt for SE trim and you'll get a good kit list, including climate control, CD player, four electric windows and cruise control. The S line adds stiffer suspension and racier cabin detailing. Metallic paint is essential for good resale value - as is sat-nav and leather seats on anything larger than a 2.0-litre model.

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