First Test: 2009 Audi A6 3.0T quattro Sedan
Try splitting a market segment. That is, encapsulate the positives of both ends with none of the negatives. The Audi A6 does it deftly, bridging the space between the midsize Audi A4 and full-size Audi A8. Naturally, it shares engines with both, a 3.2L V-6 and a 4.2L V-8. But for 2009, it receives something in between: Audi’s new supercharged 3.0L V-6.
Underhood the 2009 Audi A6 3.0T, the supercharger provides 11.6psi maximum boost to produce 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Max torque is available from 2500 rpm to 5100 rpm, where max horsepower starts and stays until the 6800 rpm redline. The result is eyebrow-raising acceleration as you pull the six-speed automatic’s paddle shifters and watch as the digital speedometer slot-machines into triple digits. And that seat-of-the-pants sensation translates to the hard data: Acceleration to 60 mph takes 5.4 sec, just a tenth off the pace of the outgoing Nissan 350Z Track. Sure, the Z reaches the quarter-mile mark a little over a tenth faster, but this A6 is an inconspicuous, all-wheel-drive, 4139-lb sedan.
Audi is keen on that unassuming nature. The Roots-type blower sits concealed between the cylinder banks of the V-6. Hood popped, there’s no indication of a power adder - save for the “TFSI” misnomer. There’s no belt whine at speed, either. The engine fires in silenced, but powerful blasts. It’s quiet and deceivingly quick — a good combination for, say, a spy.But this same sensation led to a minor disappointment when an iPod cable fell from the glovebox instead of trick spy gadgetry. While not effective at discouraging pursuers, the cable does integrate playlists and functions nicely with Audi’s MultiMedia Interface infotainment system. Images displayed on screen flip around and minimize in a stylish fashion, and the system handles navigation and HVAC controls well. Version 2.0, set to arrive in the A6 later this year, promises faster processing and higher resolution.
Unfortunately, the A6 tester we had lacked Audi’s drive select, a system available in the A4 that adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, shock damping, and steering ratio. While the A6 exhibits respectable handling, matching the Volkswagen GTI around our figure eight (27.1 sec at an average of 0.65 g), at the limit, the chassis pushes the front tires hard. Audi divides the quattro bias 40/60 front to rear, but the venerable all-wheel-drive system can’t hide the fact that 57% of the A6’s total weight resides frontward. A sleepy gas pedal and an overboosted, numb steering feel only exacerbate a driving experience that can be less-than-engaging at times — especially when the car is hustled hard.
Optioned with the topline, $5100 Prestige package, our A6 tester came with navigation, Bose sound, 18-in. wheels, bi-Xenon headlights, and a backup camera, among other goodies. Priced at $56,025, the A6 was just $1800 over the base price of a 535i xDrive and $1950 over a base E350 4MATIC. However, the most interesting comparison is with the supercharged 3.0L’s older brother, Audi’s 4.2L V-8. While 50 hp and 15 lb-ft stronger, the V-8 takes a 2-mpg city and 3-mpg highway hit versus the V-6’s 18/26. Performance between the two is close — Audi claims the V-8-equipped A6 reaches 60 mph in 5.8 sec. Yet, identically optioned, it costs $5750 more. The 3.0T, then, is a relative bargain.
The engine’s an excellent addition to a solid platform. It adds V-8-like forward thrust without the increased fuel consumption, and beautifully complements the A6’s smart packaging and well-crafted interior. Enthusiasts are still likely to choose the 5 Series for a more engaging (rear) drive, but the Audi’s overall smoothness provides ample argument for its case. A perfect split? If not, the 3.0T is arguably the best A6 yet.
[source:MotorTrend]
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