2010 Audi A6

The A6 comes in several different trim levels, including Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige, with each offering more standard goodies than the last. A range of different engines are available as well, starting with the 3.2-liter V6 offered in the front-wheel drive A6 sedan, making 265 horsepower and achieving an estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The 3.0T supercharged V6 makes 300 horsepower and is available in both A6 sedan and Avant wagon configurations. It utilizes direct injection as well as a Roots-style supercharger with two contra-rotating 4-vane shafts, delivering a maximum boost of 11.5 psi through twin water-to-air intercoolers. The 4.2-liter, 350-hp V8 also returns as an option on the sedan, while the S6 again comes with a version of the Lamborghini Gallardo's 5.2-liter V10, which makes 435 horsepower.

The 3.2-liter V6 comes with Audi's front-wheel drive system, known as FrontTrack, as well as Audi's Multitronic electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission. The 3.0-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8 in the A6 and the 5.2-liter V10 in the S6 come standard with a Tiptronic manually-controllable 6-speed automatic and the legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system, and a Dynamic Shift Program offers over 200 different shift programs to suit a variety of drivers. Quattro sends 60% of engine torque to the rear wheels and 40% to the front.

The A6 benefits from large-diameter shocks and sporty yet supple spring rates to help smooth out ride quality over a variety of surfaces.

Both a 4-door sedan and an Avant wagon are offered in the A6, each offering comfortable seating for five, but the Avant adds excellent versatility as well, offering 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

Inside, the A6 features the third generation of Audi's Multi Media Interface system (MMI), which features two control units. The unit features excellent graphics, with a sophisticated look and great contrast, and a joystick on top of the controller knob allows for fast navigation through the system. A lane assist feature is also available, which monitors the A6's position in its lane and alerts the driver through steering wheel vibrations if the car comes close to running off the road. Also optional is a blind-spot warning indicator, which flashes an amber light in the side mirror when another car has pulled alongside.