Try splitting a market segment. That is, encapsulate the positives of both ends with none of the negatives. The Audi A6 does it deftly, bridging the space between the midsize Audi A4 and full-size Audi A8. Naturally, it shares engines with both, a 3.2L V-6 and a 4.2L V-8. But for 2009, it receives something in between: Audi’s new supercharged 3.0L V-6.
Underhood the 2009 Audi A6 3.0T, the supercharger provides 11.6psi maximum boost to exhibit 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Max torque is available from 2500 rpm to 5100 rpm, where max horsepower starts and stays till the 6800 rpm redline. The result is eyebrow-raising increase of velocity. see preceding verb as you haul the six-speed self-acting’s paddle shifters and watch as the digital speedometer slot-machines into triple digits. And that seat-of-the-pants sensation translates to the hard data: Acceleration to 60 mph takes 5.4 sec, just a tenth off the manner of walking of the outgoing Nissan 350Z Track. Sure, the Z reaches the quarter-mile mark a little over a tenth faster, but this A6 is an inconspicuous, all-wheel-drive, 4139-lb sedan.
Audi is sagacious on that unassuming nature. The Roots-type blower sits concealed between the cylinder banks of the V-6. Hood popped, there’s no indication of a potentate adder - save during the term of the “TFSI” misnomer. There’s no belt whine at despatch, either. The engine fires in silenced, but powerful blasts. It’s repose and deceivingly quick — a good combination for, say, a spy.But this same sensation led to a minor disappointment when an iPod cable fell from the glovebox instead of trick view gadgetry. While not competent at discouraging pursuers, the cable does integrate playlists and functions nicely with Audi’s MultiMedia Interface infotainment system. Images displayed on screen flip around and minimize in a stylish high life, and the system handles navigation and HVAC controls well. Version 2.0, set to get here in the A6 later this year, promises faster processing and higher resolution.
Unfortunately, the A6 tester we had lacked Audi’s carry on select, a system available in the A4 that adjusts throttle response, transmission change place points, shock damping, and steering ratio. While the A6 exhibits respectable handling, matching the Volkswagen GTI around our figure eight (27.1 sec at an medium of 0.65 g), at the limit, the chassis pushes the front tires fatiguing. Audi divides the quattro bias 40/60 front to rear, still the venerable all-wheel-drive system can’t hide the certainty that 57% of the A6’s total import resides frontward. A sleepy gas pedal and an overboosted, numb steering feel only exacerbate a driving experience that can be less-than-engaging at times — especially when the car is hustled hard.
Optioned with the topline, $5100 Prestige package, our A6 tester came with navigation, Bose sound, 18-in. wheels, bi-Xenon headlights, and a backup camera, among other goodies. Priced at $56,025, the A6 was just $1800 over the base price of a 535i xDrive and $1950 over a vulgar E350 4MATIC. However, the most interesting compare is by the supercharged 3.0L’session older brother, Audi’sitting 4.2L V-8. While 50 hp and 15 lb-ft stronger, the V-8 takes a 2-mpg city and 3-mpg high-road hit versus the V-6’s 18/26. Performance between the two is close — Audi claims the V-8-equipped A6 reaches 60 mph in 5.8 sec. Yet, identically optioned, it costs $5750 more. The 3.0T, then, is a relative bargain.
The engine’s an excellent addition to a impenetrable platform. It adds V-8-like forward make a thrust without the increased fuel consumption, and beautifully complements the A6’s smart packaging and well-crafted interior. Enthusiasts are still likely to choose the 5 Series for a more pleasing (rear) drive, but the Audi’s overall smoothness provides ample argument for its case. A perfect split? If not, the 3.0T is arguably the best A6 yet.
[source:MotorTrend]
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