2006 Audi A6 4.2 Road Test

(Photo: Justin Pritchard, Auto123.com)

The MMI (Multi Media Interface) system assigns many of the features to a single multifunction knob and a few buttons. The MMI became second nature before too long, allowing quick access to anything from navigation route programming to changing CD's. You can even use the MMI to select how long you want the headlights remain lit after you return home for the evening and lock up the car. Don't miss the "service position" setting for the windshield wipers--you have to use the MMI to change your blades.

Locking up the car doesn't require ever touching the key. Same goes for unlocking it and even starting the engine. The electronic fob provided as part of the technology package stays in your pocket, purse or bag, meaning all you need to do is touch the door handle to access your car, touch the engine start button to fire it up, and then you're clear for takeoff. I've tried a number of cars with this keyless access system, and the A6 is the first one which I didn't find dimwitted and moody. Oh, don't forget to press the parking brake button before setting off, because it's electronic too.

Adaptive Xenon headlights self-level and direct xenon-fired illumination that's bright as a welding flash into every dark corner at night. It's not only incredible to watch but also an immense improvement in nighttime safety on twisty roads.

(Photo: Justin Pritchard, Auto123.com)

Somehow, all of this gadgetry begs the question: has technology gone too far, overstepping its boundary? All of the gadgets the A6 offers improve the experience, but there are a few minor complaints. One is that the self-defense mechanisms cannot be turned off. The ESP system is infinitely clever, although it cannot be disengaged over about 50 km/h and re-activates itself should you push too hard below that speed. This certainly has benefits for safety, but is undoubtedly frustrating in those times when you want to explore the car's limits. The A6 delivers most of its performance within the boundaries of its computerized leash, but for flat out driving in a track setting it might just get in the way.

Track setting? Yes, why not. It's that capable--the engineering and hardware the A6 packs make it a comfy cruiser that could hastily lap a track without breaking a sweat.

The brakes are a concern from time to time as well. They're extremely powerful, and pull the A6's well-built 4,100 pounds down from triple-digit speeds in a few winks of an eye. The problem lies with the brake-assist function. The system is designed to compensate for a natural tendency by drivers to not apply the proper amount of pressure to the pedal in emergency stopping situations. When the A6 thinks you're panic stopping, it gives you full-blown braking power at the slightest press of the pedal.

That's great, if you're panic stopping.

(Photo: Justin Pritchard, Auto123.com)

When you aren't, it can be very humorous. From time to time, dawdling though traffic, the system engages and your coffee winds up all over the dashboard, rear passengers belongings land at your feet, and everyone thinks you did it on purpose. I've never before had to tell someone "the car did it."

I'm exaggerating, a little. The coffee actually landed in my lap. But really--I'd like to think that Justin Pritchard knows when to apply proper braking pressure before a computer algorithm does, and this just proves my point.