2010 Audi A6: Road Test
2010 Audi A6 ▼
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- MSRP: $45,200 - $76,100
- Invoice: $42,036 - $74,589
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Our road test for the 2010 Audi A6 includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Audi A6 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Audi A6, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Audi A6 help you decide if a 2010 Audi A6 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
The 3.0T furnishes fine acceleration in any situation, displaying none of the low-speed throttle lag that plagues other Audi products. Its transmission is prompt and alert. A 4.2 took just 6.5 seconds to go 0-60 mph in our testing. That model also provides ample power at all speeds, though testers complain of imprecise low-speed throttle action. Audi claims S6 does 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. It's not explosive off the line, but it's plenty strong once underway. No 3.2 models have been made available for testing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing, 4.2s averaged 14.7-16.9 mpg. An S6 averaged 15.8 mpg. No opportunity to measure other A6 models. Premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.5 |
Sharp bumps can jolt, though the impact is not enough to be jarring. The 3.0T and 4.2 models ride firmly for luxury cars but are never uncomfortable. The S6's sport suspension and 19-inch tires make for a still firmer ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 9 | 7.2 |
All models corner with little body lean and reassuring composure, abetted by the steering's satisfying weight and accuracy. Standard AWD on the 3.0T, 4.2, and S6 puts this Audi near the top of the class for agility, grip, and poise. The brakes deliver smooth, short stops. S6 has the sharpest moves.
QUIETNESS
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7 | 7.2 |
The supercharged 3.0T and V8 snarl surprisingly at high rpm, though they never sound unrefined. S6's V10 has an exotic-sounding roar in fast acceleration and is nearly silent 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
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 8 | 8 | 6.5 |
Audi's MMI system generates mixed reactions from our testers. Some say it's easier to use than BMW's iDrive, others do not. Regardless, it's still 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
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.7 |
The A6's cabins offer exceptional materials and assembly quality with an overall smart, modern ambiance. Unique trim gives the S6 an appropriately sporty vibe, especially with the available carbon fiber trim.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.4 |
Vast legroom with ample headroom combine for great overall comfort. The seats are supportive all around. Note that smallish door openings complicate entry and exit. 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)
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.2 |
Doors open wide to nicely contoured, not overly firm seat. Adequate knee space, even behind taller front passengers, but scant foot space. Good head clearance for those up to 6-ft-1.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
Sedan trunks are huge for the class, long, and fairly wide. They have non-intrusive strut hinges and handy grocery-bag hooks. Rear seatbacks fold 60/40, a nice convenience. All doors have generously sized map pockets, but interior storage is otherwise subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 5 | 6.6 |
A6 is tough to top for craftsmanship. It supplements top-notch workmanship with available all-weather AWD capability, great overall refinement, and cool sophistication. The smooth, powerful 3.0T represents the best value in this lineup. The S6 is one of the most potent all-wheel drive cars you can buy for less than $100,000.
Total Score
| 3.0T | 4.2 w/navigation | S6 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 75 | 77 | 75 | 70.3 |
Total Score: 76
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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