2006 AUDI A6 NEW CAR BUYER'S GUIDE

What's New for the 2006 Audi A6?
The most significant change to the 2006 Audi A6 is the addition of a new wagon (Avant) body style that receives the same full redesign applied to the A6 sedan last year. Distinct features for the Avant include more cargo space (up to 58.6 cubic feet with the rear seats lowered), a special rail-based cargo tie-down system, standard heated front seats, and an optional power liftgate. For now, the A6 Avant comes only with the 3.2-liter V6 engine and an automatic transmission. For the 2006 Audi A6 sedan, a new "S-line" Sport package debuts with a sport-tuned suspension, special exterior trim, five-spoke 18-inch wheels, and performance tires. The A6 can also be had this year with adaptive cruise control and an adaptive air suspension. Other notable changes include the availability of a front-wheel-drive A6 3.2 sedan with a CVT transmission, a standard tire pressure monitoring system, standard wood trim, and a Bose surround sound system for A6 4.2s.

Advantages of the 2006 Audi A6:

• Available all-wheel-drive
• Gorgeous interior materials
• Sedan or wagon body style
• Full complement of safety equipment

Objections to the 2006 Audi A6:

• Funky new corporate grille
• Fussy MMI controls

Editor's Advice:
With so many excellent midsize luxury cars available, it can be hard to make a choice. Even all-wheel drive, once a feature pretty much exclusive to Audi, is now offered by a host of manufacturers. That leaves the A6 without a whole lot of distinctiveness to rely on. Its interior is still all-star caliber but that's about it. Fortunately, the A6 is still a fantastic car. It makes better sense as a wagon than a sedan but either way you can't go wrong with a 2006 Audi A6.