2002 Audi A6/allroad quattro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The less-expensive of Audi's two luxury lines gets revised styling, a larger V6 engine, and a continuously variable automatic transmission for 2002. A6 comes as a sedan, wagon, or the high-riding allroad wagon. The 3.0 sedan and Avant wagon replace last year's 2.8 models and have a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6 instead of a 200-hp 2.8 V6. The turbo V6 2.7T and V8 4.2 sedans return, as does the allroad quattro--an SUV-inspired AWD wagon with the 2.7T engine and height-adjustable suspension. New for '02 is the S6 Avant with a 340-hp 4.2 V8, sport suspension and tires, and aluminum exterior trim. The 3.0 sedan comes with front-wheel drive or quattro AWD; all other models come with quattro. Front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, and antiskid system are standard. Rear side airbags are optional. A 6-speed manual transmission is available on the 2.7T. A 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate is optional on the 2.7T and standard on other A6s except the front-drive 3.0. That model uses a continuously variable automatic transmission. Like other CVTs, it furnishes variable drive ratios instead of conventional gears, but it also offers six manual-shift ratios accessed via a separate shift gate. Leather upholstery is standard on V8 models, optional elsewhere. All '02 A6s get an in-dash 6-disc CD changer, new front- and rear-appearance touches, and revised dashboards. OnStar assistance became available midyear, and can be enhanced with extra-cost in-car e-mail service.

COMPETITION

This diverse segment offers the widest price range and obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $44,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. The refined Lexus LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at just under $55,000. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.