The New Audi A6: Finally A Rival For The BMW 5 Series
 |
| 2014 Audi A6 |
The brand new Audi A6 is a true return to form. The 2014 model has built on the disappointment of its predecessors. It has been reintroduced this year and is back to the top of the class. For a long time, the BMW 5 series dominated the market for this type of executive car. However, with the Audi A6, there is finally some competition.
The 2014 iteration has had a little facelift from the Audi design team. It has a new wheel design, a tweak of the trim and those distinctive Audi lights as standard. The range comes well equipped across the board. The optional extras are a little pricey but a lot of fun.
The Range
Each model in the range comes very well equipped. The range is designed to cater for every executive driver.
2.0 TDI.
 |
| TDI dashboard |
This is the standard model, and the best seller. Audi really look to dominate the company car market thanks to its tax friendly emissions here. Leasing companies will snatch these up as it provides a cheap company car for businesses. You'll see Audi car leasing options increase in 2015 thanks to this model. The low emissions will save you money, but you don't compromise on looks or performance. The standard model comes well equipped with a decent engine and smart image.
SE and S Line. The more expensive, sportier models come a 6 cylinder engine and four wheel drive. They are more powerful and come with that sportier look that many will crave. You'll relinquish a little ride comfort and pay for the power, but it's still a great option.
The optional extras
The optional extras here are expensive. In most cases, you'll be more than happy with the standard stock. The extras are pure luxury items. If you do want to splash the cash, you can upgrade to full LED lights, massage chairs, a head up display and improved stereo.
The Competitors
The main competitor to the Audi A6 will always be the BMW 5 series. Audi have spent a long time playing catch up but they have created a true rival in the new A6. The Jaguar XF is another strong contender as well as the Mercedes E-Class and the Lexus GS.
 |
| The A6 is a looker |
Looks
The new Audi A6 is stylish and classy. It won't win any inspiring style awards but it is elegant and sophisticated. It curves in all the right places and it features sharp lines that define its executive dominance. The sporty models have a more sleek body kit and special interior trim which is very nice on the eyes.
Fuel Economy
With the standard 2.0TDI range, Audi have created a truly great economical car. It's low emissions means it qualifies for low tax rates and you'll save a fortune at the pump. It runs to a tasty 67mpg and has super low CO2 output. It's so low that your road tax will only cost £20 a year. That's quite a feat for a large saloon car that still carries a large weight.
Performance
The turbocharged engines are powerful across the entire range. It won't win a Grand Prix, but it will perform well out on the motorway. Even the standard range with its low fuel emissions is surprisingly speedy. The 3.0 liter petrol engines on the S Line models are a true thrill if you want to spend the extra. It is incredibly agile thanks to its aluminum body and sharp steering. It doesn't quite match the BMW in the steering department but it still beats any previous A6.
Ride
As an executive car designed for long journeys, you can always expect Audi to deliver. Again, it doesn't quite provide the ride comfort or response of the BMW. However, you can be safe in the knowledge that long motorway drives won't provide any discomfort. Even when you take if off the motorway it is a joy to take around corners. The A6 is as quiet as a mouse, even at high speeds. You'll appreciate its smooth ride too. That's thanks to its efficient engine and well built interior. If you do shell out for the S Line models, the ride does become a little more stiff. You will start to feel those bumps in the road.
Costs
The new A6 is very competitively priced when looking at its rivals. It performs well and the fuel economy is low. The real value is in its package. The standard model comes complete with alloy wheels, climate control, sat nav, Audi's brilliant Drive Select System and a decent stereo. You'll pay extra for some of these options in the Audi's rivals.
Reliability
You can always trust Audi to make a reliable car and the A6 is no exception. Audi ranks as one of the most reliable car manufacturers on the road. However, the A6 does fall short of the BMW and the Mercedes in reliability tests. We're picking at faults here, the A6 is a truly strong choice in terms of reliability.
Safety
The Audi A6 comes in with 5 star safety ratings across the board. It features all the best safety technology and is built like a workhorse. It is designed to protect the driver with expert detail. Audi always fare well in safety tests and the A6 is further proof of that.
Practicality
The car is a large saloon car, making it the perfect family vehicle. It has all the space you could ask for including a very spacious boot and back seat area. The dashboard and controls are well equipped but can be a little fiddly and over-complex. Its fuel economy makes it a very practical car-around-town as well as on the open road. It is a true all-rounder.
Verdict
With the A6, Audi have finally developed a true contender to rival the BMW 5 series. It isn't quite as rewarding as the Jaguar XF. Nor is the ride quite as perfect as the BMW. However, it performs well economically and looks great. It is luxurious and spacious and comes highly well equipped as standard. The range and additional extras offer extensive choice to fit your personality.