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2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro Full Review
Date Published: 7/31/08
2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro Review
Audi redesigned its A6 sedan for 2005, giving it new styling, more room, and more power. Wheelbase grew by 3.2 inches compared to the 1998-2004 A6, but other dimensions are virtually unchanged. The sedan comes as the 3.2 model with a 255-hp V6 and as the 4.2 with a 335-hp V8. Both have a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. Also included is Audi's MMI operating system that uses one knob on the center console to take the place of conventional dashboard controls for many of the car's accessories.

Sold alongside the redesigned sedan for 2005 is Audi's SUV-flavored allroad wagon. This retains a 1998-2004 design and comes with quattro. It offers a 2.7T model with a turbocharged 250-hp V6 and the 4.2 with a 300-hp V8. Both use a 5-speed automatic transmission; the 2.7T is also available with a 6-speed manual.

All A6s have front side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags; rear torso side airbags are optional. Also standard are antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and an antiskid system. Xenon headlamps are standard for the 4.2 models and optional for the others. The 3.2 sedan is available with 16-, 17-, and 18-inch wheels. The 4.2 sedan is available with 17s or 18s. Among allroads, the 2.7T has 17s and the 4.2 has 18s. Available features include a navigation system, satellite radio, and, for sedans, steering-linked adaptive headlights.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Midsize Cars sport interior dimensions similar to Midsize Cars. Premium Midsize Cars offer more luxury, performance, and prestige when compared to Midsize Cars. This segment is one of the industry's fastest-growing categories.

Our Best Buys include the Acura TL, Cadillac CTS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Our Recommended picks include the Acura RL, Infiniti G35, and the Lexus ES 330.
News
Redesigned Avant wagons are expected to join the new-look A6 sedans for 2006. An entry-level V6 sedan with front-wheel drive may also be added. We hear Audi will offer the new A6 wagon in SUV-flavored allroad quattro guise, contradicting earlier speculation. Timing is unclear, but we'd look for a 2006 or '07 U.S. debut.

By that time, however, Audi will be selling its first true SUV. Called Q7, it's based on parent Volkswagen's Touareg design (shared with the Porsche Cayenne), but the focus will be more on-road than off-road. British sources, for example, say Q7 won't offer the VW's low-range gearing and locking differentials. It, will, however, have a longer body for standard 3-row seating, plus unique styling and interior decor. U.S. engine choices should comprise a base 3.2-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8, both likely mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Air suspension is said to be standard for the V8 version and available for the base model. Audi has reportedly registered the name QS7, which lends credence to rumors of a later high-performance model that could pack up to 500 hp.

There's been talk of an A6-based "touring coupe", perhaps badged TC and also whispered for the 2006-07 timeframe. The talk has lately died down, but the idea could still be alive. If it is, look for curvy styling a la Audi's little TT, plus V8 and possibly twin-turbo V8 engines.
2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration (4.2) Audio/climate controls
Available AWD
Passenger and cargo room
Steering/handling
Build quality
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
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
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
49
Average Score
61
High Score
72
2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 10/13/2004
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
3.2 4-door sedan, automatic $40,900 $37,847 $720
4.2 4-door sedan, automatic $50,500 $46,583 $720
2.7T allroad quattro 4-door wagon, manual $40,250 $37,255 $720
2.7T allroad quattro 4-door wagon, automatic $40,250 $37,255 $720
4.2 allroad quattro 4-door wagon, automatic $47,250 $43,625 $720
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
3.2
Powertrain
3.2-liter V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, front and rear limited-slip differentials.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, leather upholstery, 12-way power front bucket seats w/power lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors w/passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM radio w/6-disc CD changer in glovebox, digital clock, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, map lights, illuminated visor mirrors, rear defogger, variable-intermittent wipers w/heated washer nozzles, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, full-size spare tire, 225/55HR16 tires, alloy wheels.
4.2 sedan adds to 3.2:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 335-horsepower engine.
Safety
Daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power tilt/telescope steering wheel, memory system (driver seat, steering wheel, mirror), wood interior trim, automatic day/night outside and rearview mirrors, power sunroof, universal garage-door opener, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights, 245/45HR17 tires.
2.7T allroad quattro adds to 3.2:
Powertrain
2.7-liter turbocharged V6 engine, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cloth upholstery, wood interior trim, AM/FM/cassette w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, manual rear sunshade, cargo cover, rear wiper/washer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: brake assist, passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, full-size spare tire.
Roof rails, height-adjustable suspension, 225/55HR17 tires.
4.2 allroad quattro adds to 2.7T allroad quattro:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 300-horsepower engine, 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, power tilt/telescope steering wheel, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), universal garage-door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights, 245/45WR18 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Premium Pkg.
4.2 allroad
$1,400
$1,274
Power sunroof, automatic day/night rearview and outside mirrors, compass, power-folding outside mirrors.
Convenience Pkg.
3.2
$1,000
$910
Power-folding mirrors w/automatic day/night, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage-door opener, driver-information display.
Sport Pkg.
3.2
$1,250
$1,138
4.2 sedan
$1,500
$1,365
Front sport seats (4.2 sedan), sport suspension, 245/40R18 tires.
Audio Pkg.
4.2 sedan
$1,300
$1,183
allroad
$1,100
$1,001
Satellite radio (requires monthly fee), Bose sound system.
Warm Weather Pkg.
4.2 allroad
$750
$683
Solar sunroof, manual side sunshades. Requires Premium Pkg.
Cold Weather Pkg.
3.2
$900
$819
4.2 sedan
$1,050
$956
2.7T allroad
$750
$683
4.2 allroad
$800
$728
Heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel (4.2 sedan, 4.2 allroad), ski sack, headlight washers (4.2 sedan).
Powertrain
California/Northeast emissions
2.7T allroad quattro, 3.2, 4.2 allroad quattro, 4.2 sedan
$150
$150
Safety
Rear-obstacle-detection system
2.7T allroad quattro, 3.2, 4.2 allroad quattro, 4.2 sedan
$350
$319
Tire-pressure monitor
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$250
$228
allroad
$390
$355
Rear side airbags
2.7T allroad quattro, 3.2, 4.2 allroad quattro, 4.2 sedan
$350
$319
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$1,500
$1,378
allroad
$1,350
$1,241
3.2 requires Convenience Pkg.
Upgraded leather upholstery
3.2
$1,000
$910
Std. 4.2 sedan.
Front sport seats
3.2
$500
$445
Requires upgraded leather upholstery.
Satellite radio
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$550
$501
Requires monthly fee.
Voice recognition
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$350
$319
Remote keyless starting
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$750
$683
Power rear sunshade
3.2, 4.2 sedan
$400
$364
Includes manual side sunshades.
Solar sunroof
4.2 sedan
$600
$546
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Full-body color paint
allroad
$1,000
$910
5-spoke alloy wheels
2.7 allroad
$950
$865
4.2 allroad
$0
$0
Includes 225/55HR17 tires.
245/40HR17 tires
3.2
$750
$683
245/40R18 tires
3.2
$1,000
$910
4.2 sedan
$400
$364
2005 Audi A6 and allroad quattro Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Audi A6 4-door sedan Audi allroad quattro 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 111.9 108.5
Overall Length, in. 193.5 189.4
Overall Width, in. 79.2 74.6
Overall Height, in. 57.5 62.0
Curb Weight, lbs. 3957 4178
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 15.9 73.2
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 21.1 18.5
Seating Capacity 5 5
Front Head Room, in. 38.6 37.5
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 37.7 38.4
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 36.9 37.3
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  Turbocharged dohc V6 dohc V6 dohc V8 dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 2.7 /163 3.2 /191 4.2 /255 4.2 /254
Horsepower @ rpm. 250 @ 5800 255 @ 6500 300 @ 6200 335 @ 6600
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 258 @ 1850 243 @ 3250 295 @ 3000 310 @ 3500
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
6-speed manual 16/23 --/-- --/-- --/--
5-speed automatic 16/22 --/-- 17/23 --/--
6-speed automatic --/-- 19/26 --/-- 17/23
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Audi A6 4-door sedan Audi allroad quattro 4-door wagon
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 12/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance 4/50,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance 4/50,000 --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: Germany
Drivewheels: front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2005 Audi A6
Trim Level:  3.2
Arrival Date:  11/29/2004
Engine:  dohc V6
Bodystyle:  4-door sedan
Transmission:  6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  Yes
Base Price:  $40,900
Price as Tested:  $46,270
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  1473
Mileage at End of Test:  1635
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  23.637 gals.
 

Major Options:  Night Blue Pearl Effect, Beige Interior, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission W/Tiptronic, Premium Package (Glass sunroof, Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Bose Premium Sound System, Wood Interior Trim), Cold Weather Package (Heated Front And Rear Seats, Ski Sack, Headlight Washers), 17-inch Alloy Wheels W/All-Season Tires, Leather Seating Surfaces

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  15.27 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Chuck Giametta I would have liked to see power instead of manual tilt/telescope. And the broken power mirror switch adds to the list of Audi/VW defects. But at around $45,000 this well-equipped prem. sdn. is priced competitively. You really can't get into a rival-brand V8 for this money, though a 300C is an interesting alternative, especially w/AWD. My brief exposure to the new RL tempts me to favor that car over the latest A6. And while I don't think the '05 A6 is a that great a leap over the previous generation, it's a car I could easily live with as a large, capabale, luxury oriented but satisfying drive.

Damon Bell The wonky throttle response is almost a dealbreaker for me, but otherwise the A6 is an impressive car for the money.

Mark Bilek At delivered price of over $45,000 keeps this pleasant sedan from being price competitive in the segment. However, the advanced AWD system is a huge plus, as is the pleasant interior. MMI has got to go, as does Audi's penchant for muffling power delivery with goofy throttle tip in. Otherwise, there's much to like in the new A6.


Vehicle Evaluated:  2005 Audi A6
Trim Level:  4.2 sedan
Arrival Date:  01/21/2005
Engine:  dohc V8
Bodystyle:  4-door sedan
Transmission:  6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  Yes
Base Price:  $50,500
Price as Tested:  $56,570
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  5611
Mileage at End of Test:  6049
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  29.715 gals.
 

Major Options:  Cold Weather Pkg. (Heated Front and Rear Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Ski Sack, Headlight Washers) 18-inch Alloy Wheels w/all-season Tires, Advanced Key, Bose(R) Premium Sound System XM Satellite Radio, Audi DVD Navigation System, Oyster Grey Metallic Exterior, Ebony Interior, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  14.74 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Chuck Giametta The A6 4.2 is a highly capable sedan in the best European tradition. Its design is sophisticated, its construction rock-solid, and its technology advanced--maybe too advanced when it comes to the unnecessarily complicated MMI. It's exceptionally roomy, and while its interior boasts high-grade and top-notch assembly, rival luxury makers are catching up fast in terms of cabin quality. It's a shame that you have to spring for the V8 to get acceleration befitting this price range, but the rewards are ample if you can afford the cost.

Rick Cotta On paper, the A6 4.2 looks to be a luxury-car bargain: For its $50,000 base price, it gives you all-wheel drive and a V8 where most competitors give you rear drive and a six. But MMI is not a good solution for sorting out the car's myriad electronic functions (though BMW's iDrive is worse), interior execution seems to have taken a step backward, and acclimating to the non-linear throttle and brake action takes time--and shouldn't be necessary.

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