Audi A6 3.0 TFSI quattro – Classy Alternative
The Volkswagen Group as a whole is hell bent on world domination, and its guns in the premium vehicle segments are being wielded through its boys in Ingolstadt. Over the last two decades, Audi has been relentless in its pursuit of BMW and Mercedes-Benz, which each generation of products significantly improved over their respective predecessors.
Those efforts have been bearing fruit in recent years, with Audi topping the mini-league between the three manufacturers in many developed markets. A conservative buyer mindset ensures that the four rings remain as a niche player here in Malaysia, but the tides are noticeably turning, and it is difficult not to when you have products of actual substance, like the all-new Audi A6.
 |
| A compelling alternative to the E-Class and 5 Series. |
Prices & Variants
Euromobil launched the A6 with only one variant, the 3.0 TFSI quattro as tested here, though the range has since been bolstered at with the 2.0 TFSI model which was introduced more recently. The entry level FWD variant is powered by a 180hp turbocharged engine paired to Audi’s Multitronic CVT.
Here in the 3.0 TFSI, power is supplied by a 2,996cc supercharged V6 with direct injection producing 300hp and 440Nm. Traction goes to all fours distributed by Ingolstadt’s famous quattro all-wheel drive system, which features a central crown gear differential able to vary torque distribution anywhere from 70% front to 85% rear bias based on driving conditions.
A RM170k price difference separates the two variants, and notable items exclusive to the 3.0 TFSI include two rear side airbags, electric reach and rake adjustment of the steering wheel, sports suspension, BOSE surround sound, reverse camera, and keyless entry. Seeing that the standard version already includes the MMI system and Audi Drive Select, our RM515k test car would seem justifiable only if the additional power and four driven wheels mean a great deal to you.
 |
| 7-speed S-tronic sends power to all fours via quattro AWD. |
Exterior
Audi has opted for an evolutionary approach in styling this new A6, ensuring that there will be no mistaking of its lineage even to casual observers. The details, however, have been tweaked with the most crucial change being a lengthened wheelbase and shortened front overhang relative to its predecessor. A lowered height further emphasizes the new model’s sportier stance.
The front end retains the same basic styling components of the outgoing model but with subtle alterations. Squarish elements that defined the predecessor’s face have been fine tuned to trapezoidal shapes. The standard headlights on offer are bi-xenons with automatic range control and LED daytime running lights. An additional RM13,000 buys you all-LED illumination.
Speaking of options, those with RM30,000 to spare can give their cars a sportier tilt with the S line package. Notable items of the package include S line sports suspension from quattro GmbH, exclusive alloy wheels between 18″ and 20″, sports seats, sports steering wheel, and various aesthetic bits inside. Interestingly, the package makes no mention of any spoilers or lips for the exterior, only extra ‘S line’ badges.
 |
| Single-frame grille is Audi’s trademark design. |
Interior
Audi interiors are widely acknowledged as being the best built cabins in the business, excelling in materials selection, build quality, and overall ambiance. In reviews when we liken the build quality of cabins to those made by Audi, they are often mild exaggerations to make a point rather than spot on representations of reality.
In the A6, all known virtues of Audi cabins are present in spades. Panel gaps are consistent, and controls are well laid out with good tactile feel. The only complaint ergonomic-wise is the starter button’s placing on the centre console towards closer to the passenger rather than the driver. Not only is it not intuitive to find, but it is also very vulnerable to the itchy fingers of restless passengers.
For the mandatory LCD screen of its MMI system, Audi has opted to use a folding screen for the A6. The screen extends out when the ignition is switched on, and folds away neatly when off. Operation of the system is simple and intuitive, but omission of the GPS function despite there being a button labeled ‘Navigation’ is unlikely to amuse an owner who just spent half a million ringgit on the car.
 |
| 7-in colour display sits between the instruments. Menus selected via steering-mounted controls. |
Driving Experience
Progress in the A6 is best described as quick and effortless, with the supercharged motor pulling strongly across its rev range. It is a highly refined unit, with a pleasantly linear power delivery, in sharp contrast to BMW’s twin-scroll turbo unit in the 535i which feels outright brutal by comparison despite being quoted with lower outputs.
As a matter of fact, the BMW remains the decidedly sportier alternative despite having rear-wheel drive and a torque converter transmission against Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive and S-tronic dual clutch ‘box. Not that the A6 is not capable of stringing together a series of fast corners, mind you, but it does it in such a dignified and nonplussed manner, you feel that this is a car that is best used as a cruiser rather than a bruiser.
Finer details of the A6’s driving experience can be adjusted to personal preferences, thanks to the five-mode Audi Drive Select system that governs engine, steering, and suspension settings. In addition to the pre-programmed Efficiency, Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic modes, drivers can programme their own preferred settings in the Individual mode. Differences are noticeable between the five settings, with throttle response noticeably softer in Efficiency, and ride correspondingly stiffer in Dynamic.
 |
| Individual mode in Audi Drive Select can be self-programmed based on user’s preference. |
Verdict
Most buyers will opt for the 2.0 TFSI model, which offers almost similar levels of equipment but at a significantly lower price point. The 3.0 TFSI here is for the even more affluent crowd who demand the best and don’t mind spending for it. It is significantly better value than the BMW 535i, though the Bavarian is admittedly more fun to drive.
Against its established rivals from Stuttgart and Munich, the A6 distinguishes itself with a greater sense of style and showroom appeal. Spec-for-spec, the A6 is priced competitively against comparable variants of the E-Class and 5 Series, making it a compelling buy especially if you’re seeking to depart from the norm.
 |
