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Used test: Audi A6 Allroad vs Volvo V90 Cross Country verdict
These posh, four-wheel-drive estates have more go-anywhere ability than plenty of SUV. We've put them head to head to see which is the better used buy...
Our Verdict
In the end, the A6 Allroad the most refined and well-rounded car in this test, but there is a huge price difference you'll need to pay, and for some, it'll be very hard to justify.
It's especially hard because the V90 Cross Country has most areas covered pretty well and it has loads of rear leg room, along with a high-quality interior that has a more welcoming design than the slightly clinical one of the Audi. So we can understand if you'd rather save £100 or more per month on PCP finance or tuck that £10,000 saving away for a rainy day and choose the Swedish alternative.
However, most buyers would be better off going for a four-wheel-drive version of the regular A6 Avant or V90 instead. Unless you must have the body cladding and extra ride height offered by the Allroad and Cross Country, the standard versions will save you a fair chunk of money (or, in the Audi's case, get you the more potent 282bhp 50 TDI engine) and prove just as capable in most driving conditions.
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1st – Audi A6 Allroad
For Stronger performance; better to drive; more ground clearance; bigger boot
Against Digital instrument panel wasn't standard; extremely pricey realative to the V90 CC to buy
Verdict The most luxurious choice, but you have to stump up the big bucks for the privilege
What Car? rating four stars out of five
Read our full used Audi A6 Avant review >>
Find a used Audi A6 Allroad for sale >>
2nd – Volvo V90 Cross Country
For More comfortable seats; more rear leg room; significantly cheaper to buy
Against Unsettled ride; more engine and wind noise; so-so infotainment system
Verdict A great all-rounder despite some niggles, plus it's extremely good value for money
What Car? rating four stars out of five
Read our used Volvo V90 review >>
Find a used Volvo V90 Cross Country for sale >>
Specification: Volvo V90 Cross Country D5 PowerPulse AWD
Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
List price when new £50,610
Price today £28,552*
Power 231bhp @ 4000rpm
Torque 354lb ft @ 1750-2250rpm
0-60mph 7.4sec
Top speed 140mph
Fuel economy 39.5mpg (Official WLTP combined)
CO2 emissions 148g/km
Specification: Audi A6 Allroad 45 TDI Sport
Engine size 3.0-litre diesel
List price when new £53,895
Price today £38,749*
Power 228bhp @ 3250-4750rpm
Torque 369lb ft @ 1750-3250rpm
0-60mph 6.8sec
Top speed 155mph
Fuel economy 37.7mpg (Official WLTP combined)
CO2 emissions 153g/km
*Prices today are based on a 2019 model with average mileage and full service history according to the What Car? Valuation service, correct at time of writing
Best estate cars 2024 – the top choices for luggage capacity
An estate car needs to be practical, but the best models are also comfortable, well equipped and affordable to run. Here we reveal our top 10 buys – and the estates to steer clear of
