2005-2011 Audi A6
History
In the planet of German luxury marques, BMWs are geared for the sporty driver while Benzes are for those who wanted to seat at the back. On the other hand, Audis are preferred by buyers who wanted a balance of both while remaining a low profile. Everyone knows that, so let's go with the next paragraph.
With Walter de'Silva (who designed the revived Scirocco and the Passat CC) taking care of the design, it was introduced in November 2004. Under the C6 platform, it features more technologies and new engine choices (while retaining the progression saw in the previous one). Apart from the sedan body style, there is the Avant wagon, Allroad (similar to the Volvo XC70 and Subaru Outback), and the China exclusive A6L.
PGA Cars took distributorship rights over Auto Prominence Philippines, and the former brought in the C6 A6 in 2005. Numerous choices ranging from the engines to the body configurations are available for the consumer. Sales ended in July 2011 with the C7 A6 being launched at that time.
Value and Costs
For just between P1,700,000-P1,900,000, you can purchase a second hand A6 through a private owner or PGA Cars' pre-owned selection. For your peace of mind, the latter is the place to go since a limited warranty is standard and the units had been inspected prior to sale.
Maintenance costs are on par with the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes Benz E Class of the same time, but remember that making tipid on the maintenance aspect can bring out the worst. Just remember to have it inspected periodically and have it drink high octane levels of fuel. Electronic gadgets are desirable to own, but having them break down is a bitch.
Exterior and Interior
Audis have been an example of understated elegance. From the lines that does not scream one's status, down to the headlights, fenders, and bumpers that mash-up together in harmony. It may be plain outside but once you get to know this car more, you'll appreciate the clean lines it has.
With the swooping roofline, those who wanted to be pampered in the rear seats have to bow their heads while entering. But you wouldn't mind the low clearance when proceeding in since the backseat is the place to have your legs stretched and this is a surprise since this is basically the "normal" version and not the one that is offered to the Chinese. Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface) is present inside the cabin devoid of wood panels, and in its place are aluminum surfaces that livens up the black interior. As always, high quality materials are there, which justifies the price.
Engine
Three gasoline engines and a single diesel motivator are the options for A6 buyers when it was brand new. Let's enumerate the gasoline ones starting off with the basic 1,984cc I4 with 170hp at 4,300-6,000rpm and 280Nm at 1,800-4,200rpm, next in line is the 3,123cc V6 that has 255hp at 6,000rpm and 330Nm at 3,250rpm, and the daddy of all Philippine market A6's with gas engines is the 4,163cc V8 that has 295hp at 6,200rpm and 400Nm at 3,000rpm to play with. For the diesel mover, the 2,967cc V6 possess 230hp at 4,000rpm and 450Nm at 1,400-3,250rpm. You won't mind having the 2.0 gasoline on your list so let's not deal with this more, with our focus on the three remaining engines.Silky smooth is the word to describe for the 3.2 V6 while the FSI V8 is a demon to drive. For all intentions and reasons, the 3.0 V6 diesel is the one, with powerful acceleration and useful in everyday driving. The engines are impressive to begin with but how does it drive? To the next paragraph.
Driving Impressions
Some variants, which counts the diesel model, has standard all-wheel drive. Couple this with a bulky body, understeer is a common occurence and for quick overtakes, some careful gear selection must be done. But despite the bulk, it is as solid as a vault. Good or bad weather, it remains firm and stable like a bamboo. Going to the all-wheel drive system, the Quattro splits all torque automatically on all four wheels.
Verdict
You want a Benz but don't want to be dragged under the spotlight, and you want a Bimmer but find the rear seats uninhabitable, the A6 combines the traits and packaged in under one shell. Compromises are present but introverts, your car has arrived.
The Good:
- Great diesel pull
- Quality is excellent
- Comfortable to be inside
The Bad:
- Styling not for the extrovert
- Driving dynamics not at par with Bimmers
- Good luck searching for a FSI V8
The Pick: 3.0 diesel
THE SPECS
Engines: 1,984cc I4, 3,123cc V6, 4,163cc V8 gasoline and 2,967cc V6 diesel
Power: 170hp @ 4,300-6,000rpm (2.0 I4), 255hp @ 6,000rpm, (3.2 V6), 295hp @ 6,200rpm (4.2 V8), 230hp @ 4,000rpm (diesel)
Torque: 280Nm @ 1,800-4,200rpm (2.0 I4), 330Nm @ 3,250rpm (3.2 V6), 400Nm @ 3,000rpm (4.2 V8), 450Nm @ 1,400-3,250rpm (diesel)
Fuel Consumption: 4-9km/L (city), 6-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission (2.0 I4 and 3.2 V6), 6-speed automatic (4.2 V8 and diesel)
Suspension: Front independent double wishbone, rear independent trapezoidal link
MORE INFO
Price (New): P4,100,000-P5,995,000
Price (Now): P1,700,000-P1,900,000
Rivals: BMW 5 Series, Jaguar S Type, Jaguar XF, Mercedes Benz E Class, Lexus GS, Volvo S80
On Sale: 2005-2011
Resources:
http://www.audiforums.com/forum/audi-a6-9/
http://forums.audiworld.com/forumdisplay.php?f=7
Contacts
PGA Cars Mandaluyong - (02) 727-0145
Audi Alabang - (02) 771-2210
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