2019 Audi A6: A Refined Executive Sedan
The 2019 Audi A6 represents a significant evolution for Audi's executive sedan, blending sophisticated technology, a luxurious interior, and a potent yet refined driving experience. This generation marked a major redesign, ushering in Audi's new design language and a suite of advanced features.
Highlights
- Engine Power and Performance: The 2019 A6 offered a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine (often referred to as the 55 TFSI) producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a smooth 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (S tronic) and Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel drive, provided brisk acceleration and confident roadholding. The power delivery was linear and responsive, making it adept at both highway cruising and spirited driving.
- Advanced Safety Features: Audi equipped the 2019 A6 with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and safety technologies, enhancing both passive and active protection:
- Pre Sense® City & Front: This system utilizes radar and cameras to detect potential collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. It provides visual and audible warnings and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an accident.
- Pre Sense® Rear: Working in conjunction with the rear sensors, this feature detects potential rear-end collisions and can prepare the vehicle for impact by tightening seatbelts and closing windows.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane unintentionally, often with subtle steering wheel vibration or visual cues.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic Jam Assist: This advanced system maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed. Traffic Jam Assist further enhances this by providing low-speed steering assistance in congested traffic, significantly reducing driver fatigue.
- Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitoring): Warns the driver of vehicles in their blind spots, crucial for safe lane changes.
- Trim Summary: The 2019 A6 was primarily offered in two well-appointed trims, each building upon the other:
- Premium: This base trim provided a luxurious and technologically rich experience, including features like a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and the MMI touch response infotainment system.
- Premium Plus: Stepping up to the Premium Plus trim added even more convenience and sophistication. Key upgrades typically included a larger MMI display, a virtual cockpit (digital instrument cluster), Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System, ambient interior lighting, and often more advanced driver-assistance systems as standard.
- Notable Aspects:
- Virtual Cockpit: Audi's acclaimed digital instrument cluster offered customizable displays and seamless integration with navigation and media.
- MMI Touch Response: The intuitive dual-touchscreen infotainment system with haptic feedback provided a modern and user-friendly interface.
- Supple Ride and Refined Handling: The A6 struck an excellent balance between a comfortable, composed ride and engaging handling, making it a pleasure to drive on various road surfaces.
- Premium Interior Materials: The cabin was a showcase of quality, featuring high-grade leather, genuine wood or aluminum trim, and meticulous craftsmanship.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Audi A6 generally translates to a premium and sophisticated ownership experience. You can anticipate a quiet and comfortable cabin that insulates occupants from road and wind noise. The technology suite, particularly the MMI infotainment system and Virtual Cockpit, is designed to be intuitive once familiarized.
- Maintenance: As a luxury German sedan, maintenance for the A6 will generally be more expensive than for a mainstream vehicle. Regular scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, will be crucial to keeping the sophisticated powertrain and systems in optimal condition. Following Audi's recommended service intervals is highly advisable. Brake pad and rotor replacements, while potentially lasting longer due to the quattro system's bias, will still represent a higher cost when they need to be addressed. Tire replacement will also be a significant expense given the likely performance-oriented tires fitted.
- Insurance: Insurance premiums for the 2019 Audi A6 will typically be higher than for more common sedans. This is due to its luxury status, advanced technology, and the cost of repairs for specialized components. Factors such as your driving record, age, location, and chosen coverage levels will all influence the final cost.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Audi A6 is an exceptional vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of:
- Dual-Clutch Transmission Behavior: While generally smooth and quick-shifting, some drivers may notice a slight hesitation or jerkiness at very low speeds or during stop-and-go traffic, which can be characteristic of dual-clutch transmissions.
- Rear Seat Space: While comfortable for most, the rear seat space might feel slightly less expansive compared to some of its larger luxury sedan rivals, particularly for adults in the middle seat.
- Infotainment Learning Curve: The dual-touchscreen MMI system is highly advanced, but it can have a slight learning curve for those unaccustomed to such integrated digital interfaces. However, most users find it becomes second nature relatively quickly.
- Potential for Complex Repairs: The extensive technology and sophisticated engineering mean that any repairs outside of routine maintenance could potentially be more complex and costly if not performed by a qualified Audi technician.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Audi A6 stands out as a highly competent and desirable executive sedan that masterfully blends performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. It offers a refined and engaging driving experience, complemented by a meticulously crafted interior and a comprehensive suite of safety features. While ownership will involve the expected costs associated with a premium German automobile, the A6 rewards its drivers with a sophisticated and enjoyable motoring experience that continues to impress.