Reviews - Audi

Overall Rating

The A6 is a facelift on the Audi 100 with few changes when it launched in 1994. Combined with the Audi image, German engineering and character has made the A6 a popular second hand choice. Upgraded turbo diesel engine has improved power and response. A serious contender to the 5-Series and E-Class.

• Quality, well built and solid
• Comfortable ride
• Spacious with large boot space

• Sluggish 1.8 litre version
• Not built for performance
• Not as prestigious as 5-Series or E-Class

This first generation A6 is a much sought after used buy. Audi image is rivalling BMW and Mercedes and the spacious A6 is a serious contender in the larger saloon/estate sector. Well built and solid the classic look is popular coupled with a certain amount of character. The cabin is spacious with plenty of boot space. Standard equipment is been good on all A6?s, especially on the SE models. Audis are very safe cars with the full 1990s safety kit. The A6 has conventional airbags instead of the 'Procon Ten' safety system previously used on the Audi 100. The handling is responsive and geared towards safety rather than trying to deliver the ultimate driving experience. The A6?s are all front-wheel drive except the Quattros. Suspension offers a comfortable. If you are looking for a lively performance the five-cylinder S6 is excellent. The 1.8 is the most sluggish with the 2.0 litre a much better option although that too could do with a bit more power under the bonnet, but as they are in the same price bracket opt for the 2.0 litre. The powerful 2.8 litre V8 is the first to have Quattro transmission. The A6 estate has great fuel economy for such a large car. Quality, safety and reliability are the backbone of the A6 rather than performance.

Best Models: Any turbo diesel

Worst Models: 1.8

Replacement: 1998

• BMW 5-Series (1988-96)
• Mercedes E Class (1985-96)
• Volvo 850 (1992-97)