2020 Audi A6

Pros: Well finished cabin; fine ride/handling balance

Cons: Complicated control system; steering lacks feel

CG Says: After a year’s absence, the high-performance S6 returns to the 2020 Audi A6 lineup. The S6 is powered by a 444-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The A6 gains standard lane-departure warning, heated power mirrors, and self-dimming headlights. There is also a new SUV-flavored allroad A6 wagon (see separate review). Audi’s midsize sedan was redesigned for 2019, gaining fresh-but-familiar styling, new technology features, and new mild hybrid powertrains. The base engine is 248-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 12-volt mild hybrid system and 3.0T models have a 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Both engines are mated to 7-speed automated-manual transmission. All A6 and S6 Audis have standard all-wheel drive. Available safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, intersection and left-turn assist that monitors oncoming traffic at low speeds, and vehicle-exit-assist system warns if a car or bicycle is approaching as a door is opened. The Audi A6 is a conservatively designed premium midsize sedan that has an impeccably finished cabin and nicely tuned ride/handling balance. Prices are high, and the infotainment system is complicated, but the A6 is an appealing alternative to the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.