Audi A6 (2004-) Review

Comfort and Equipment

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This really is the big Audi's trump card. With such an increase in size, especially in the wheelbase, there is now space approaching A8 levels in the A6's cabin. Leg, knee and shoulder room have all been improved upon, and head room is very generous, too. Four quite large adult men can sit comfortably in the A6 without the front seat occupants needing to give up legroom. And there is even more luggage space than in the A8.

Again, there are some really thoughtful details in here, such as the scalloped areas at the bottom of the B-pillars, which are meant to make it easier 'for people with big feet' to get in and out of the back seats. The standard fit seats are very comfortable, too, and underthigh support is particularly good on the rears. The A6 comes standard with climate control equipped with split temperature control.

Leather is now an optional extra - it was standard on the outgoing run-out models - but a CD changer, 16-inch alloys and Audi's excellent Multi Media Interface are standard fit. The MMI system manages the car's communications, entertainment, ventilation, lighting and information systems (including the optional sat-nav when it's fitted). It works via a controller knob with a simple menu, as well as dedicated function buttons.

Another neat convenience feature which seems to work well on the A6 is the combined light and rain sensor that automatically activates the headlights and windscreen wipers.

And then there is the feelgood factor. With high-quality materials and beautifully executed detailing, the Audi is a very pleasant place to spend time, as well as being a quiet and refined cruiser. The A6's ride quality quietly soaks up road deformities such as patched tarmac, although it can feel a little too firm over rippled and wavy surfaces.

The Avants 1660-litre boot is the biggest in this class, and can be specified with an array of straps, boxes, sliding bars and rails to keep any order and size of luggage pinned down safely. A fold-out floor mat can be pulled over the bumper to prevent scratches when loading bulky objects, or acts as a clean seat while you take your muddy boots off. Those, by the way, can then be stowed in a washable plastic compartment under the boot floor. The tailgate both opens and closes electrically, too.