Wagon or SUV? Which one do you prefer?
Having $80,000 to spend on a car will open you a lot of doors. However, your options will be significantly reduced if functionality and versatility are your top priorities. Forget sports coupes and luxurious convertibles; say hello to trucks. After all, they're the trendy pick right now.
Still, there are a few wagons out there that can do the trick for most truck haters. German automaker Audi offers one: the A6 Avant.
Only one engine
Unlike its sedan variant, which offers several different powertrains (including the S6's 435-hp V10), this Audi wagon is only available in 3.2 quattro trim. What does that mean? Well, it means you'll find a 255-hp 3.2-liter V6 under the hood, sending power to all four wheels thanks to Audi's acclaimed quattro all-wheel drive system. This translates into brisk though not electrifying accelerations. But if you just want to have fun, the car will prove to be powerful enough, especially when taking the family dog to the vet.
In reality, the A6 Avant lacks a bit of punch under hard acceleration, partly due to the 6-speed Tiptronic transmission. This unit is not responsive enough. In other words, there's a noticeable delay after you depress the throttle. In every other situation, however, the gearbox works like a charm, shifting smoothly and efficiently.
I expected to average a better fuel economy than 13 L/100 km (combined city/highway). After all, Audi claims a city rating of 12.5 L/100 km. Granted, I almost never drove on the highway during the entire test week, which certainly didn't help.
A nice tourer
But in the time that I was there, I really enjoyed the ride comfort of the A6, although the steering felt a bit vague and, when the road slightly deteriorated, the ride became harsh due to the firm suspension.
However, the A6 Avant remains agile and sporty for such a long and heavy car. What's more, visibility is great thanks to large side windows. The sideview mirrors are a tad small, though.
Passengers are greeted with supreme interior comfort. The seats offer good back support and finding an ideal driving position is easy. In addition, noises are effectively kept out of the cabin.
Having $80,000 to spend on a car will open you a lot of doors. However, your options will be significantly reduced if functionality and versatility are your top priorities. Forget sports coupes and luxurious convertibles; say hello to trucks. After all, they're the trendy pick right now.
Still, there are a few wagons out there that can do the trick for most truck haters. German automaker Audi offers one: the A6 Avant.
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| Judging by the comments received, the A6 Avant is decidedly stylish. |
Only one engine
Unlike its sedan variant, which offers several different powertrains (including the S6's 435-hp V10), this Audi wagon is only available in 3.2 quattro trim. What does that mean? Well, it means you'll find a 255-hp 3.2-liter V6 under the hood, sending power to all four wheels thanks to Audi's acclaimed quattro all-wheel drive system. This translates into brisk though not electrifying accelerations. But if you just want to have fun, the car will prove to be powerful enough, especially when taking the family dog to the vet.
In reality, the A6 Avant lacks a bit of punch under hard acceleration, partly due to the 6-speed Tiptronic transmission. This unit is not responsive enough. In other words, there's a noticeable delay after you depress the throttle. In every other situation, however, the gearbox works like a charm, shifting smoothly and efficiently.
I expected to average a better fuel economy than 13 L/100 km (combined city/highway). After all, Audi claims a city rating of 12.5 L/100 km. Granted, I almost never drove on the highway during the entire test week, which certainly didn't help.
A nice tourer
But in the time that I was there, I really enjoyed the ride comfort of the A6, although the steering felt a bit vague and, when the road slightly deteriorated, the ride became harsh due to the firm suspension.
However, the A6 Avant remains agile and sporty for such a long and heavy car. What's more, visibility is great thanks to large side windows. The sideview mirrors are a tad small, though.
Passengers are greeted with supreme interior comfort. The seats offer good back support and finding an ideal driving position is easy. In addition, noises are effectively kept out of the cabin.
 |
| The A6 Avant offers plenty of room for your entire family and performance levels to satisfy the racer in you. |