2003 Audi A6/allroad quattro: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

New features and the midyear addition of a high-power model highlight Audi's midrange line of sedans and wagons. The A6 3.0 sedan and 3.0 Avant wagon use a 3.0-liter V6. The 2.7T sedan and SUV-flavored allroad quattro wagon have a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6. The 4.2 sedan uses a 4.2-liter V8, which is due to be offered in the allroad in late summer as an early 2004 model. The sporty S6 Avant adds a more powerful V8, sport suspension, and special trim. The RS 6 sedan added midyear has a 450-hp twin-turbo V8. The 3.0 sedan comes with front-wheel drive or with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. All other A6s are quattros. The 2.7T offers a 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic; the automatic has a manual shift gate, but for '03 loses steering-wheel shift buttons. This automatic is mandatory for other A6s except the front-drive 3.0 sedan. That model uses a continuously variable automatic transmission. Like other CVTs, it provides variable drive ratios, but also has six preset "gears" accessed via a manual shift gate or steering-wheel buttons.

All A6s have front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. ABS and an antiskid/traction-control system also are standard. Rear side airbags are optional, as are a navigation system and OnStar assistance with available in-car e-mail service. Full leather upholstery is standard on V8 models, optional on the 2.7T.

For 2003, leather seat inserts are standard for 3.0s and the 2.7T. The 2.7T trades 16-inch wheels for standard 17s. On the debit side, front passenger-seat memory is dropped, and the sunroof is optional instead of standard on the 4.2 sedan. The RS 6 has Audi's new self-adjusting Dynamic Ride Control suspension, 18-inch wheels, and specific trim, and includes OnStar. Audi says RS 6 sales will be limited to about 1000 units.

COMPETITION

With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.

We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 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. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.