Audi’s A6 stands on its own
By Michael Binstock
Acorn Automotive Editor

I’ve noticed something when I see other reviews and stories about Audi. Most writers use an excessive amount of words comparing Audi with its German competition. I set out, when they delivered the 3 liter A6, to deal with just what I received, a superb luxury sedan with a high degree of both performance and comfort.

Let’s start with the basics. This is one of the best looking cars I have ever driven. It is also easy to drive!

The new A6 has an innovative new drive train and numerous improvements to the design, equipment, body and running gear. Included is a six-disc in-dash CD changer, new wheels and bigger tires, second rear fog light, and an emergency release handle in the trunk interior are also new, in addition to Audi Telematics by OnStar. My car was equipped with a navigation system but I was unable to use it as the DVD was missing.

Four different versions of the A6 and A6 Avant, (Audi’s word for wagon) are available. My test vehicle was the all-new aluminum 3.0-liter V6 model with FrontTrak that comes standard with another Audi revolution - multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission with Tiptronic. Simply put, it’s a transmission without gears; a transmission with an infinite spread of "gear" ratios between its lowest and highest range. With no gears, multitronic eliminates the lurches, pauses and other inefficiencies of a traditional gearbox. By combining clutch-like pulleys with a flexible steel belt, multitronic continually adjusts to optimum performance, given a virtually unlimited combination of horsepower and torque, driving conditions and driver inputs. The end result is a transmission that is smoother than a traditional automatic, faster than a five-speed manual, and more fuel-efficient.

The all-aluminum 3.0-liter V6 motor is rated at 220 bhp with a peak torque of 221-lbs. ft. The aluminum block makes the 3.0 V6 lighter than the 2.8-liter V6 it replaced. The 3.0 A6 Sedan with multitronic has a top electronically governed speed of 130 miles per hour, and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds. The EPA-estimated fuel economy is 25 highway, 19 city, for an average 21 miles per gallon.

Audi engineers have completely redeveloped or improved numerous components ensuring that every detail of the A6 illustrates its superiority of driving pleasure, comfort and style. Its four-link front suspension with numerous aluminum components and the elaborate design of the rear suspension make the new generation A6 even quieter and smoother. Comfort and driving pleasure is further enhanced with speed-synchronized Servotronic steering which has been optimized for the new A6.

All Audi A6 models now provide the particularly safety-conscious, permanently alert hydraulic BrakeAssist system. As an integral part of the latest ESP generation, it is part of the standard specification to help the driver in emergency braking situations by automatically increasing braking pressure.

The visible dual-exhaust tailpipes add a new, striking accent to the back of all A6 models, with different configurations depending on drive-train combinations. The new design of the taillights is one of the most eye-catching features of the rear. Lights for reversing now have a cylindrical design, while red lenses conceal amber turn indicators.

The A6’s clear glass headlights also are new. Because of their transparency, the surface of the light unit is particularly distinctive—frosted lenses distribute an agreeable light across the road ahead without distracting oncoming traffic.

The 2002 A6 also includes numerous improvements not visible to the eye, such as new door seals and thicker glass in the side windows that keep the cabin well-insulated against outside noise. Thanks to improved sound insulation, tire noise has been reduced by nearly 40 percent, contributing to the A6 cabin’s quieter ride.

Keeping the A6 cabin environment pleasant is an air sensor that detects levels of outside air pollutants. If a high reading is encountered, the sensor automatically shuts off induction of the outside air, preventing potentially offensive odors from reaching the interior. Once the air quality improves, the sensor automatically reintroduces the supply of outside air.

Like all high-performance vehicles in the Luxury class there is a lot to get used to in the Audi A6. Even with a comprehensive owners manual, it took me some time to get used to all the controls, which at night are illuminated with a red glow making the switches easy to find and use.

There is more than enough storage for all the odds and ends that we keep, including a handy well between the seats for a cell phone.

With a balanced and spirited approach to both power and control the 2002 A6 sets a new standard in power, style and grace. This car is a dream to drive and one that I would choose for any long family outing. Take a look at the A6 at Rusnak Westlake in the Thousand Oaks Auto Mall.