2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro: Road Test
2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro ▼
- MSRP: $40,250 - $50,500
- Invoice: $37,255 - $46,583
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Our road test for the 2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro help you decide if a 2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.6 |
Six-cylinder 3.2 provides strong pull from a stop, ample highway passing power, though around-town response at mercy of sometimes tardy transmission downshifts. Potent 4.2 V8 quicker still, with satisfying power across the rev range, though some testers complained of imprecise throttle action away from a stop. Audi quotes 0-60 mph of 7.1 sec for 3.2, 6.0 for 4.2. Test allroad took just under 8 sec.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4.6 |
In an even mix of city/highway driving, test 3.2 averaged 16.1 mpg, test 4.2s averaged 14.7-16.3. Test allroads averaged 15.1-17.2. Audi recommends premium-grade fuel for all models.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.9 |
Firm for a luxury vehicle. Sharp bumps can jolt, especially with 18-inch tires, and sometimes with 17s. Virtually no highway float or wallow.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 7.1 |
Sedans among best in class. Impressive composure in corners, little body lean. Steering has satisfying weight and accuracy. AWD means great grip and poise on all surfaces. Brakes deliver smooth, short stops. Allroad's taller build, greater weight, dampen reflexes somewhat.
QUIETNESS
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6.8 |
All engines remarkably refined, though V8 snarls surprisingly at high rpm. Cabin impressively absent of wind noise, even at high speed. Road noise subdued in sedans, more noticed in allroad wagon.
CONTROLS
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 6.7 |
Contemporary interior design with high-grade materials and assembly--the envy of many a luxury-car company. Sedan's MMI control system easier to use than BMW's complicated iDrive, but is still a distracting alternative to conventional switchgear. Other controls logically placed, simple to use, but placing CD changer in glovebox--with no slot in the dash--puts it out of driver's easy reach.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7.4 |
Sedan offers vast leg room, ample head room; allroad nearly as roomy. Comfortable, firm, supportive seats. Excellent outward visibility in all directions.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Doors open wide to nicely contoured, not overly firm seats. Adequate knee room, even behind taller front passengers. Toe room snug. Good head clearance for those up to 6-ft-1. Allroad lacks rear cupholders.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 4 |
Sedan's trunk is long, fairly wide; has nonintrusive strut hinges, handy grocery hooks. Rear seatbacks fold 60/40. Allroad expansively roomy. All doors have generously sized map pockets, but interior storage otherwise subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
Though the MMI system complicates some control functions, the A6's luxurious interior detailing, capable quattro AWD, overall refinement, and cool sophistication earn it a place on any luxury shopper's list. The older-design allroads still appeal for utility, all-weather capability, and a touch of SUV style.
Total Score
| 3.2 sdn w/17-inch whls. | 4.2 sdn w/17-inch whls., nav. sys. | 4.2 sdn w/ 18-inch whls., nav. sys. | 2.7T allroad quattro, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 66 | 66 | 65 | 67 | 61.6 |
Total Score: 66
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