Vehicle History Report
Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.
- • New Cars
2008 Audi A6 Full Review
Date Published: 4/30/08
Also in the 2008 Audi A6 Review:
2008 Audi A6 Review
The 2008 Audi A6 gets no major changes. Sedan and wagon body styles are offered in 3.2 trim, and they have a 255-hp 3.2-liter V6 engine. The 3.2 sedan is available with front-wheel drive or Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. The 3.2 Avant wagon and all other A6 models are AWD only. Other models include the 4.2 quattro sedan, which has a 350-hp 4.2-liter V8 and the high-performance S6 quattro, which has a 435-hp 5.2-liter V10. Front-drive A6 models have a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). All others use a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front and rear side airbags. Available for all but S6 is an air suspension that adjusts ride height and firmness to load, road surface, or driving style. A power tailgate is optional for the wagon, and all A6s offer bi-xenon headlights and a navigation system. A Technology Package includes rear obstacle detection and a rearview camera. All models include Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) control that uses a console knob and switches, and a dashboard screen to adjust audio, climate, and other functions.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 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.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
Our Best Buys include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G, and Lexus ES 350. Our Recommended picks are the Acura TL, Infiniti M, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
New or significantly redesigned models include the BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CTS, Volvo V70, and Volvo XC70.
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Audi A6 Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (4.2, S6) | Audio/climate controls |
| Available AWD | Fuel economy (4.2, S6) |
| Passenger and cargo room | |
| Steering/handling | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
No wagons or front-drive sedans have been made available for us to test. A V6 quattro sedan timed a brisk 7.6 sec 0-60 mph in our evaluation. It showed good highway passing reserve but annoyed at town speeds with a sometimes tardy transmission response. A V8 sedan took just 6.5 sec 0-60 and furnished ample power at all speeds, though some testers complained of imprecise low-speed throttle action. S6 models are muscular from any speed; Audi claims 5.1 sec 0-60.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 6 | 8 | 8 | 7 |
No wagons or front-drive sedans have been made available for us to test. A V6 quattro sedan timed a brisk 7.6 sec 0-60 mph in our evaluation. It showed good highway passing reserve but annoyed at town speeds with a sometimes tardy transmission response. A V8 sedan took just 6.5 sec 0-60 and furnished ample power at all speeds, though some testers complained of imprecise low-speed throttle action. S6 models are muscular from any speed; Audi claims 5.1 sec 0-60.
Fuel Economy
In Consumer Guide testing, 3.2 sedans averaged 16.1 mpg in mostly city driving and 20.5 with more highway use. Test 4.2s averaged 14.7-16.9 mpg. We've not measured fuel economy for an S6. Audi recommends premium-grade gas for the V6 and requires it for the V8 and V10.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 2 | 4.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 3.2 sedans averaged 16.1 mpg in mostly city driving and 20.5 with more highway use. Test 4.2s averaged 14.7-16.9 mpg. We've not measured fuel economy for an S6. Audi recommends premium-grade gas for the V6 and requires it for the V8 and V10.
Ride Quality
Firm for a luxury vehicle. Sharp bumps can jolt, though it's not enough to be jarring. The S6's sport suspension and 19-inch tires make for a still firmer ride.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5 | 6.3 |
Firm for a luxury vehicle. Sharp bumps can jolt, though it's not enough to be jarring. The S6's sport suspension and 19-inch tires make for a still firmer ride.
Steering/Handling/Braking
All models corner with little body lean and reassuring composure, abetted by the steering's satisfying weight and accuracy. AWD versions are near the top of the class for agility, grip, and poise. The brakes deliver smooth, short stops. S6 models have even sharper moves all-around.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 9 | 7.1 |
All models corner with little body lean and reassuring composure, abetted by the steering's satisfying weight and accuracy. AWD versions are near the top of the class for agility, grip, and poise. The brakes deliver smooth, short stops. S6 models have even sharper moves all-around.
Quietness
The V6 and V8 are remarkably refined, though the V8 snarls surprisingly at high rpm. S6's V10 has an exotic-sounding roar in fast acceleration and a subdued burble at cruise. The cabin is impressively free of wind noise, even at high speed. Road noise is subdued in A6s and noticeable with the S6.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 7 |
The V6 and V8 are remarkably refined, though the V8 snarls surprisingly at high rpm. S6's V10 has an exotic-sounding roar in fast acceleration and a subdued burble at cruise. The cabin is impressively free of wind noise, even at high speed. Road noise is subdued in A6s and noticeable with the S6.
Controls
Some testers find Audi's MMI easier to use than BMW's iDrive, but nevertheless, it's a distraction versus conventional switchgear. Other controls are handy and intuitive, but the CD changer resides in the glovebox out of easy driver reach.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 6.1 |
Some testers find Audi's MMI easier to use than BMW's iDrive, but nevertheless, it's a distraction versus conventional switchgear. Other controls are handy and intuitive, but the CD changer resides in the glovebox out of easy driver reach.
Details
The A6's cabins offer class-leading materials and assembly quality with an overall smart, modern ambience. Unique trim gives the S6 cabin an appropriately sporty vibe.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
The A6's cabins offer class-leading materials and assembly quality with an overall smart, modern ambience. Unique trim gives the S6 cabin an appropriately sporty vibe.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Vast legroom with ample headroom combine for great overall comfort. The seats are supportive all around. S6's seats are heavily bolstered for support in fast cornering, but they're still long-haul pleasant for most drivers. Outward visibility is excellent in all directions.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.3 |
Vast legroom with ample headroom combine for great overall comfort. The seats are supportive all around. S6's seats are heavily bolstered for support in fast cornering, but they're still long-haul pleasant for most drivers. Outward visibility is excellent in all directions.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Doors open wide to a nicely contoured, not overly firm seat. Kneeroom is adequate, even behind taller front passengers, but foot space is scant. Head clearance is good for those up to 6-ft-1.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Doors open wide to a nicely contoured, not overly firm seat. Kneeroom is adequate, even behind taller front passengers, but foot space is scant. Head clearance is good for those up to 6-ft-1.
Cargo Room
Sedan trunks are long and fairly wide. They have nonintrusive strut hinges and handy grocery-bag hooks. Rear seatbacks fold 60/40. All doors have generously sized map pockets, but interior storage is otherwise subpar.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Sedan trunks are long and fairly wide. They have nonintrusive strut hinges and handy grocery-bag hooks. Rear seatbacks fold 60/40. All doors have generously sized map pockets, but interior storage is otherwise subpar.
Value within Class
A6 is tough to top for craftsmanship, and it offers all-weather AWD capability, great overall refinement, and cool sophistication. It's a must-see for any luxury-car shopper.
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.2 |
A6 is tough to top for craftsmanship, and it offers all-weather AWD capability, great overall refinement, and cool sophistication. It's a must-see for any luxury-car shopper.
Total Score
| 3.2 quattro sedan | 4.2 sedan w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
| 73 | 73 | 69 | 68.3 |
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
| Low Score | 56 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 78 |
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Audi A6 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| FWD 3.2 4-door sedan | $42,950 | $39,943 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| AWD 3.2 quattro 4-door sedan | $46,100 | $42,873 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| AWD 3.2 Avant quattro 4-door wagon | $49,000 | $45,570 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| 4.2 quattro 4-door sedan | $56,300 | $52,361 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| S6 quattro 4-door sedan | $72,350 | $67,285 | $775 |
Price note: S6 adds $1300 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
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, continuously variable automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability (CVT), traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, tire-pressure monitor, rear-obstacle-detection system, emergency inside trunklid release (sedan).
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front seats (wagon), 12-way power front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, heated power mirrors w/passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof (wagon), AM/FM radio w/6-disc CD changer in glovebox, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, tachometer, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers, illuminated visor mirrors, cargo cover (wagon), rear defogger, rear wiper/washer (wagon), automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, roof rails (wagon), headlight washers, front and rear fog lights, full-size spare tire, 245/40HR18 tires, alloy wheels, AWD adds: all-wheel drive, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability.
4.2 adds to 3.2:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive.
Safety
Daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, heated front seats, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), power sunroof, Bose sound system, automatic day/night outside and rearview mirrors, compass, universal garage door opener.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.
S6 adds to 4.2:
Powertrain
5.2-liter V10 engine.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, sport suspension, 265/35R19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Premium Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2 sedan
|
$3,550
|
$3,231
|
|
3.2 wagon
|
$2,550
|
$2,321
|
|
Daytime running lights, power sunroof (sedan), heated front seats (sedan), memory system (driver seat, mirrors), power-folding mirrors w/automatic day/night, Bose sound system, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, power liftgate (wagon), bi-xenon headlights.
|
||
|
Technology Pkg.
|
||
|
S6
|
$3,350
|
$3,049
|
|
Rear-obstacle-detection system, navigation system w/voice recognition, rearview camera, keyless access and starting.
|
||
|
S line Interior Pkg.
|
||
|
4.2
|
$1,000
|
$930
|
|
3.2
|
$2,000
|
$1,820
|
|
Unique interior trim, steering wheel shift paddles, upgraded leather upholstery, black headliner. 3.2 requires Premium Pkg. NA w/Cold Weather Pkg., wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel.
|
||
|
Cold Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2
|
$600
|
$546
|
|
Heated rear seats, trunk pass-through, ski sack. 3.2 sedan requires Premium Pkg. NA w/S line Interior Pkg., wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel.
|
||
|
Warm Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
S6
|
$1,190
|
$1,083
|
|
Solar sunroof, power rear sunshade, manual side sunshades.
|
||
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Rear side airbags
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2, S6
|
$350
|
$319
|
|
Lane departure warning system
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2, S6
|
$900
|
$819
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2
|
$1,600
|
$1,456
|
|
Adaptive cruise control
|
||
|
3.2 wagon, 4.2, S6
|
$2,000
|
$1,820
|
|
Upgraded leather upholstery
|
||
|
3.2
|
$1,000
|
$910
|
|
Requires Convenience Pkg. 3.2 sedan requires Premium Pkg. Std. 4.2.
|
||
|
Leather dashboard trim
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2, S6
|
$1,275
|
$1,160
|
|
Carbon-fiber interior trim
|
||
|
S6
|
$400
|
$364
|
|
Heated rear seats
|
||
|
S6
|
$225
|
$205
|
|
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2
|
$690
|
$628
|
|
Includes shift paddles.
|
||
|
iPod adapter
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2, S6
|
$290
|
$212
|
|
Power rear sunshade
|
||
|
3.2/4.2 sedan
|
$400
|
$364
|
|
Includes manual side sunshades.
|
||
|
Manual side sunshades
|
||
|
3.2 wagon
|
$250
|
$228
|
|
Solar sunroof
|
||
|
4.2
|
$790
|
$719
|
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2, S6
|
$750
|
$683
|
|
Sport suspension
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2
|
$500
|
$455
|
|
Adaptive air suspension
|
||
|
3.2 wagon, 4.2
|
$2,300
|
$2,093
|
|
NA w/sport suspension.
|
||
|
255/40YR19 tires
|
||
|
AWD 3.2, 4.2
|
$1,200
|
$1,092
|
|
Chrome alloy wheels
|
||
|
3.2, 4.2
|
$1,180
|
$1,073
|
|
Includes 245/40YR18 tires.
|
||
|
|
||
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Audi A6 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Audi A6 4-door sedan | Audi A6 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.9 | 111.9 |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.5 | 194.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 79.2 | 79.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.5 | 58.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3858 | 4211 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 15.9 | 58.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 21.1 | 21.1 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 37.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.3 | 41.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.8 | 38.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.9 | 36.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc V6 | dohc V8 | dohc V10 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.2 /191 | 4.2 /254 | 5.2 /318 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 255 @ 6500 | 350 @ 6600 | 435 @ 6800 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 243 @ 3250 | 325 @ 3500 | 398 @ 3000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 6-speed automatic | 17/25 | 16/23 | 14/19 |
| CVT automatic | 18/27 | --/-- | --/-- |
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 A6 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 | None/-- | -- |
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
|
|||
 |
|||
|
|||
|
|
|||
|
Major Options: Premium Package (Bi-Xenon Headlights w/ Daytime Running Lights, Bose Surround Sound, Auto-dimming Interior Mirror, Auto-dimming/Electric Folding Exterior Mirrors, Memory Function for Driver's Side, Power Tailgate), Technology Package (Voice Recognition, Advanced Key, Advanced Parking System, Audi Adaptive Light, Homelink Garage Door Opener, Power Tilt & Telescoping Steering Column), S Line Interior Package (Front Sport Seats w/S Line Logo, S Line Steering Wheel and Door Sills, Milano Leather Upholstery, Gray Birch Wood Decorative Inlays), DVD Navigation System, 19-inch Alloy Wheels w/Summer Performance Tires, Sport Suspension, Audi Music Interface. Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 19.93 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Don Sikora The A6 3.2 Avant Quattro does a lot of tasks very, very well. The interior is beautiful (and the body isn't bad either), the V6 is sweet, and the wagon body adds a welcome dose of utility. I liked this car a lot, but the sticker price is the main problem. Why does this car cost about $6000 more than our long-term 2007 Q7 did? Tom Appel A6 is a classy ride that somehow comes up a little short in this class. For a major chunk of less of your money, check out the likable Volvo V70/XC70 wagons. They aren't as nice as an Audi inside (almost nothing is) but they're nice enough, and feel roomier to boot. |
|||
|
|
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Audi A6 Review:
Car Buying Resources
Vehicle History Report
Locate a Dealer
Sell Your Car
Powered by:
-
MAKE -
CATEGORY
Subcompact Car
Compact Car
Midsize Car
Large Car
Premium Midsize Car
Premium Large Car
Sporty/performance Car
Premium Sporty/performance Car
Minivan
Full-size Van
Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Compact Pickup Truck
Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicle
Premium Compact Sport-utility Vehicle
Large Pickup Truck
Premium Compact Car
Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicle
Exotic Car
