Audi A6 – 2005 – 2011

Overview:

Audi’s A6 has always stood for comfortable, spacious motoring in a relatively demure package. This model, known as the C6 or Typ 4F, was on sale in Ireland for six years and though its looks are dated in comparison to the latest Audis, it’s still an excellent car with a lot to offer.

Tell me all about it:

Though this A6 is a modest looking car, it’s more than a match for the equivalent BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class – certainly in terms of build quality, refinement, comfort and space. It doesn’t offer as engaging a drive as the BMW, but it’s more comfortable in return and the interior quality is second to none.

There were a lot of options in the A6 line-up too, from the rare 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol models to the best-selling 2.0-litre TDI cars and the highly desirable V6 diesels. There’s a saloon and an estate (or ‘Avant’ in Audi speak), plus the allroad quattro, which is a four-wheel drive version of the estate with raised ride height and beefed up styling.

If you have deep pockets keep an eye out for the high-performance S6 and RS6 models, and if possible go for a post-2008 model, which is when the A6 was facelifted – and of course the annual road tax depends on emissions on those cars too, not their engine size.

Anything I should look out for?

Like the other German marques Audi has a good reputation for reliability, but few cars are without their issues so take the time to inspect any A6 you’re interested in and make sure it has been serviced recently. That’s especially true of the diesel models, as they do drink a little oil. Check the level as well as when it was last changed.

Other than that, ensure that the air conditioning is working as expected with the engine running and that there are no warning lights on at the same time, as ECU issues are not unknown. Finally, on cars with larger wheels, make sure the tyres are in good health as they sometimes rub on the wheelarches.

What are my options?

Without hesitation the answer is a 2.0 TDI model in SE specification, or if your budget stretches perhaps the same engine in one of the final limited edition cars. As desirable and fast as the V6 diesels are, the 2.0-litre unit is much cheaper to run and has plenty of performance for most people. Avoid the entry-level specification and go for SE. Sport and S line cars look more impressive, though make sure you test drive them as they’re not as comfortable as the SE on the road. If you need more space, look for a cavernous A6 Avant. They’re not as common on the used market here, but a great high-quality family car all the same.

How much will it cost me?

Really early examples, most with high mileages, go for under €8,000 now and the newest examples are advertised for over €30,000, so there’s a wide range to suit every budget it seems. The 2.0 TDI SE saloon from about 2009 fetches in the region of €18,000 to €25,000 depending on condition, mileage and options – such as an automatic gearbox.

How does it compare to the latest model?

Audi took everything we knew about the A6 and enhanced it a little – other than the driving experience. The newer A6 is sharper on the road, which at times (depending on specification) can mean less comfortable, but it’s better to drive than ever. It’s also far more modern looking, instantly dating the car featured here. And the new one has a wealth of new technology too. Finally, the new car came with a more generous specification.

Review produced courtesy of completecar.ie