Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency: Audi A6

In 2005 the Audi A6 was named the World Car of the Year at the Toronto Auto Show, and it is easy to see why. It  also received attention from Edmunds.com when they named the A6 as its Editors Award pick. The A6 is known well for its signature Audi look and interior styling, but what most people may not realize is how fuel efficient it can be. I was eager to check out this Unsung Hero of Fuel Efficiency, so I stopped by Checkered Flag Audi today to check it out. Fritz Falch, a sales consultant there gave me the scoop.    

The A6 is available as a sedan or a wagon (called the Avant). Two trims are offered: 3.2 FSI (base, starting at $42,950) or 4.2 FSI. The Avant comes only in the 3.2 trim. Performance wise, the V6 engine on the 3.2 gets 255 hp and 243-lb-ft of torque. The more powerful 4.2-liter V8 cranks out 350 hp with 325 lb-ft torque. Both engines have direct fuel-injection technology which optimizes performance, but still maintains great fuel efficiency. The sedan and the Avant get virtually the same miles per gallon, 18/19 miles in the city, and 27 on the highway. With its 21.1 gallon tank, the A6 gets a whopping 570 highway miles.

As expected, Audi does not disappoint with loading up the A6 with a generous amount of standard features. The 3.2 sedan includes 18" Five-arm cast alloy wheel from quattro; BOSE® Surround Sound; six-disc CD changer (it is located inside the glovebox); genuine wood inlays; heated front seats; leathering seating surfaces; and much more. The 3.2 Avant comes similarly equipped, but adds a sunroof. And finally with on the 4.2 sedan you will find all the previous features mentioned plus ultra chic Milano leather upholstery; Audi adaptive light; power tilt and telescoping steering column; and HomeLink® garage door opener. There is plenty more on the full list. See it here.

I touched upon it already, but the A6 interior deserves a little more attention. In true Audi fashion, the A6 interior is fantastic. I did my best to capture the impressive interior, but unfortunately the pictures do not do it justice. It would be best to check it out in person. Sitting in the A6, I was struck by the craftsmanship and the comfort of the back seats.  Fritz says “If you are looking for rear seat roominess, the A6 is the car.” He also tells me that its been very popular with business executives who often host guests around town, but it is equally suitable as family vehicle, especially the Avant model. Oh, and I also have to mention the super cool MMI (Multi Media Interface) control found on all the A6 models . Using the MMI console knob, various switches and the dashboard screen, you can adjust audio, climate, and optional navigation functions.    

Safety is always a big consideration in any vehicle purchasing decision, so you might be glad to know that the A6 earned top ratings for both frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.  In addition to passive safety features such as airbags, crumple zones, and doors inlaid with steel beams, the A6 also come with active safety features including: the Quattro all-wheel drive system and the Electronic Stability Program (ESP); and tire pressure monitoring system.

Fritz knows a ton about cars particularly Audi and he gave me great information. If you are interested getting to know the A6 better I suggest talking with Fritz or anyone on the Checkered Flag Audi sale team at 2864 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111.