By Ian Strachan.
Diesel seems to be a dirty word these days, and in an older vehicle it can be a big polluter. However, the super-smooth Audi A6 has a host of technology to keep emissions to a minimum.
A diesel particulate filter, an exhaust gas recirculation system and a state-of-the-art catalytic converter make sure this Audi is as non-polluting as possible. Its CO2 emissions are 187 g/km.
Hybrid versions of the A6 are available, but this three litre turbo-diesel powered executive express uses modern technology to keep emissions to a minimum. Plus you get Audi’s smooth good looks, comfortable ride and handling, and effortless power delivery.
I test drove the A6 in Allroad Quattro permanent four-wheel-drive guise, with a three litre 286 ps diesel engine.
This easy-revving engine will take you from 0-60 in just over five seconds. Married to an ultra smooth eight-speed automatic gearbox it gives excellent sporty performance when you want it, and a smooth and sedate ride on long journeys.
Ride and handling are both refined and composed, with sure-footed cornering, even at speed. The Quattro permanent four wheel drive set-up means confident handling and superb grip in all weathers.
Inside, the A6 is roomy in the extreme, particularly in the back. Controls are well laid out and clear, with a display screen which shows radio and climate control settings. The nicely-trimmed leather sports seats (£1,700 option) are supremely comfortable with a welcome three-setting heating system.
Standard equipment on the Sport specification which I tested includes 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors with camera, satnav and an excellent sound system controlled from a central touchscreen, automatic light and wiper activation, automatic climate control, electrically operated and heated door mirrors and a host of safety features including lane-keeping assist.
The Audi A6 Allroad 50 TDI quattro Sport comes in at £58,385 , plus an extra £685 for metallic paint. My test car also had a comforted and sound pack with parking assist and uprated audio system (£2,295), an increased capacity 73 litre fuel tank (£115), an electric swivel towing hitch (£825) and a panoramic glass sunroof (£1,950).
Not cheap, but this is an excellent, well-equipped high performance car that is extremely comfortable, has all the advantages of four-wheel-drive and has very good residual values.
