• 2013 Audi A6

• 2012 Audi A6
• Used Audi A6
• Repairs Audi A6

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Audi A6 U.S. News Best Cars 8.9
Critics' Rating:	9.2
Performance:	8.3
Interior:	7.9
Safety:	9.9
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• Audi S6 reintroduced
• Quattro available on A6 2.0T
• Start/stop system on A6 3.0T and S6

Pros & Cons

• Excellent fuel economy with base engine
• Opulent, attractive interior
• Powerful supercharged V6 option

• Light steering with vague feel

Research Other Years

• 2012 Audi A6
• 2011 Audi A6
• 2010 Audi A6
• 2009 Audi A6
• 2008 Audi A6
• 2007 Audi A6

The 2013 Audi A6 ranks 3 out of 15 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 22 published reviews and test drives of the Audi A6, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

With attractive styling, engaging performance and an opulent, tech-filled interior, test drivers say that the 2013 Audi A6 offers a level of refinement that few luxury large cars can match.

The 2013 Audi A6 is available with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a more powerful, supercharged V6. While test drivers say that the turbo-four delivers great fuel economy, most prefer the strong acceleration that the supercharged V6 provides. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) comes in the base model, while all other versions get an eight-speed automatic, which test drivers say shifts quickly and smoothly. The 2013 A6 gets up to 25/33 mpg city/highway, which is very good for the class. Many reviewers praise the A6 for its agile handling and comfortable ride, saying that it strikes a nice balance between the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Still, a few critics would like more road feel from the A6’s steering system.

Critics agree that the 2013 A6 has a stylish cabin design that’s built with premium materials. While some reviewers note that the A6 has less cargo and back-seat space than other luxury large cars, others consider the cabin spacious and comfortable. Audi’s MMI infotainment system controls most audio and climate functions, and most test drivers say that it’s fairly easy to use. The A6 comes standard with a sunroof, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 10-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, satellite radio and an iPod interface. Options and features available on higher trims include navigation, four-zone automatic climate control, a backup camera with parking sensors, adaptive cruise control and a blind spot monitoring system.

• "The Audi A6 excels for its high levels of polish and sophistication that strikes a nice blend between the performance-oriented BMW 5-Series and coddling Mercedes-Benz E-Class. First-rate interior accommodations and a remarkably hushed cabin add to the experience." -- Consumer Guide 
• "Features like a head-up display, an adaptive suspension, night vision with pedestrian detection and mobile Internet all keep the A6 on the cutting edge of technology. Besides all of this high-tech wizardry, the A6 also maintains Audi's reputation for high-quality interiors and a refined ride quality." -- Edmunds 
• "While the BMW 5 Series has long been the obvious choice for enthusiasts, and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the preferred ride for those seeking more traditional luxury, Audi's A6 strikes a unique balance: technology and design, performance and efficiency." -- Kelley Blue Book 
• "So it has getaway speed, stops hard, and can handle itself pretty well. It also has a magnificently tailored cabin designed to transport you and your human cargo in safety, elegance, and serious comfort." -- Motor Trend (2012)

Other Cars to Consider

Reviewers say that the Mercedes-Benz E350 has a luxurious, high-quality interior, just like the A6. Although reviewers don’t consider it as sporty as the A6, the E350 earns great safety scores, and auto writers love its large trunk and spacious back seat. 

The Lexus GS 350 is also available with all-wheel drive, and critics say that it offers great handling and a comfortable ride. The GS 350 also pleases reviewers with its upscale interior, which includes comfortable and supportive front seats.

Compare the A6, E350 and GS 350 »

Details: 2013 Audi A6

The 2013 Audi A6 2.0T seats five and has standard front-wheel drive. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are standard. A6 3.0T models come with a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The A6 comes in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. For 2013, the A6 2.0T gets optional all-wheel drive and the high-performance Audi S6 is reintroduced. The 2013 S6 comes with a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine, all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automated manual transmission. A6 3.0T and S6 models also now come with a fuel-saving start/stop system. Aside from these additions, the Audi A6 is basically unchanged for 2013. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2012, as well as the current model year.

See the full 2013 Audi A6 specs »