2018 Audi A6 Review
Price Range: $11,995 - $32,590





+162
Edmunds' Expert Review

by James Riswick
Edmunds Contributor
James Riswick has been testing cars and writing about them for more than 20 years. He was the senior reviews editor for Autoblog and previously served multiple editor roles here at Edmunds. He has also contributed to Autotrader, Car and Driver, Hagerty, JD Power and Autoguide Magazine. He has been interested in cars forever; his mom took him to the Toronto Auto Show when he was 18 months old and has attended at least one every year since (OK, except in 2020). He owns a babied 1998 BMW Z3 in James Bond blue and a 2023 Kia Niro EV.
Pros
- Roomy interior finished in high-quality materials
- Powerful engines that also achieve good fuel economy
- Intuitive technology interface
- Well-balanced ride and handling
Cons
- Doesn't offer Audi's latest tech
- Restrained styling verging on anonymous
What’s new
For 2018, every A6 now comes standard with navigation, the larger MMI display, and keyless ignition and entry. LED headlights are now included on the Premium Plus trim, while the Prestige gets a top-view parking camera. Every variant of the 3.0-liter V6 engine now produces 340 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. That output had previously been exclusive to the now-discontinued Competition Prestige trim. There is a new Competition package, however, that essentially bundles the same features.
Vehicle overview
The 2018 Audi A6 should be suffering from diminished appeal. After all, it's been kicking around without a full redesign for six model years now while its prime competitors have been completely redone in the past year. It's old news. Well, that might be true in terms of attracting attention, but in the end, the A6's appeal has in fact diminished little. This well-rounded luxury sedan continues to deliver exactly what shoppers in this segment are seeking: room, features, luxury and performance in abundance.
For sale nearby
19 listings
- 57,334 miles
- 2 accidents, 2 owners, corporate fleet vehicle
- 4cyl automatic
- Drive Simple NJ (2 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in South Plainfield, NJ
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: Yes
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (22 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WAUG8AFCXJN030994
Stock: 2107
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 03-27-2025- $18,995good price$2,248 below market
- 47,229 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 4cyl automatic
- Xclusive Auto Sales (12 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
Close
Located in Keyport, NJ
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
26 Combined MPG (22 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WAUF8AFC3JN071527
Stock: X071527
Certified Pre-Owned: No
And for 2018, there's even more on offer. Not only does the available 3.0T V6 get more standard power, even the base Premium trim gets treated to the full gamut of previously optional tech equipment. You no longer have to pay extra for things such as a proper USB port or Bluetooth audio, while navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard in a segment where they are almost always optional.
The A6 still makes do with Audi's previous-generation MMI tech interface — the controller is of an older design and you can't get the nifty Virtual Cockpit gauge display available on Audi such models as the A4, A5 and R8. It's also less advanced than the interfaces of its newer Benz and Bimmer rivals. However, this version of MMI still works, and we wouldn't consider it a major demerit.
Indeed, the entire A6's age shouldn't be held against it. Maybe it could have a few extra features and maybe its conservative styling is getting stale, but in terms of checking off luxury car boxes, few do it as well without major drawbacks.
Notably, we picked the 2018 Audi A6 as one of Edmunds' Best AWD Sedans and Best Midsize Luxury Sedans for 2018.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
8.3 / 10The current Audi A6 generation has been around for a long time now without a full redesign. In fact, virtually all of its competitors have received a thorough nip and tuck. Still, the Audi is so well-rounded that the 2018 A6 remains a top choice.
Trim tested
There are typically multiple versions of each vehicle, although many aspects are shared. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Audi A6 3.0T Quattro Prestige (turbo 3.0L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD)
NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current A6 has received some minor revisions, including more power for the V6 engine. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's A6, however.
Scorecard
Overall | 8.3 / 10 |
Driving | 8.5 |
Comfort | 7.0 |
Interior | 8.5 |
Driving
8.5With even more power for 2018, the A6's 3.0T V6 remains a standout in the segment. The standard 2.0T engine is also more than sufficient. The A6's handling is also excellent, though driver engagement could be better.
Acceleration
9.0In prior testing, the A6 3.0T reaches 60 mph in just a tick above 5 seconds, which is excellent for the class. Under normal acceleration, power delivery is remarkably smooth with undetectable shifts from the eight-speed automatic. It's also remarkably quiet.
Braking
8.5Our test A6, fitted with summer-rated tires, stopped from 60 mph in 111 feet — a typical distance. During panic braking, the car remained very controllable and tracked straight with no drama.
Steering
7.0The steering effort is very light at low speeds for easy maneuverability and increases only slightly at higher speeds. Switching to Dynamic mode gives it more appropriate weighting for spirited driving, but there's never much feedback.
Handling
8.5The A6 tackles turns with confident aggression. This is one of those sedans that behaves like a smaller coupe when having fun on a twisting road. Newer German rivals really haven't topped it. Note that our test car came equipped with the sport-tuned suspension.
Drivability
8.0The auto engine stop-start feature has a tendency to stumble when the driver demands a quick launch. Otherwise, the A6 is free of quirks and behaves exactly as you'd expect with minimal effort.
Comfort
7.0The A6 is one of the sportier luxury sedans with some comfort-related compromises in the name of performance. We'd caution comfort-focused buyers against the optional Sport package, which drives the comfort score down with its stiffer suspension, bigger wheels and summer tires.
Seat comfort
8.5The A6's seats are firm but well shaped for comfort after extended periods. The ventilated seats on the range-topping Prestige trim further enhance comfort on long road trips. The outboard rear seats are equally supportive and comfortable.
Ride comfort
7.0With the optional sport suspension and 20-inch wheels, the suspension lacks initial compliance over smaller road imperfections but not to objectionable levels. If comfort is a priority for you, we recommend skipping these options.
Noise & vibration
6.5Wind and engine noises are pleasantly silenced, but there's a noticeable amount of road noise. It's not tiresome, though, and may be a result of the summer tires that come with the optional Sport package.
Interior
8.5The A6's interior gets high marks for its classy, understated design and high-quality materials. The wood trim is particularly attractive. We also like the roomy cabin.
Ease of use
8.0The primary controls are thoughtfully placed, and Audi's MMI infotainment interface is intuitive and easy to use.
Getting in/getting out
9.0The true sedan profile and large door openings mean getting in and out of the A6 is easy, even in tight spaces. Rear passengers won't need to stoop to gain access either.
Roominess
9.0The front seats are spacious without feeling too big, and the armrests are well placed for big and small occupants alike. The rear seats comfortably accommodate adult-size outboard passengers with enough head- and legroom.
Visibility
7.0Forward visibility is hampered slightly by thick roof pillars, and the short rear window forces heavy reliance on the standard rearview camera. The head-up display (standard on the Prestige trim) is easy to read and supplies navigation directions, too.
Quality
9.0The materials and construction of the A6 are top-notch. The knobs and buttons have a satisfying heft, and all interior surfaces are attractive and pleasing to the touch. Yes, this Audi is getting on in years, but it gives up little (if anything) to newer rivals.
Utility
The A6's 14-cubic-foot trunk is smaller than those of rivals, and indeed most midsize sedans. It's still deep, wide and easily accepts bulkier items, but others are still better. The low liftover height is appreciated.
Technology
The A6 does not yet offer Audi's latest MMI interface, including the Virtual Cockpit all-digital gauge display. That's OK, though, for as impressive as that system is, the older version in the A6 is still feature-rich and easy to use.
Which A6 does Edmunds recommend?
We think you'd probably be content with the base Premium trim now that the previously optional MMI Navigation Plus package is standard. Besides the obvious, it includes the upgrade MMI tech interface, a bigger display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a proper USB output and full Bluetooth connectivity. You can get more features with Premium Plus or Prestige, but we think you'll be plenty happy with the Premium. As to engine choice, strongly consider the base 2.0T. Its fuel economy is excellent with all-wheel drive and superlative with front-wheel drive.
Compare 2018 Audi A6 trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2018 Audi A6 models
The 2018 Audi A6 is a midsize luxury sedan available in four trim levels: 2.0T Premium, 2.0T Premium Plus, 3.0T Premium Plus and 3.0T Prestige. The A6 2.0T has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard, and it utilizes a seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. Optional all-wheel drive (Quattro) is available, and is paired with an eight-speed automatic. The 3.0T upgrades to a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 good for 340 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard with that engine.
Highlights for the the 2.0T Premium and 3.0T Premium include 18-inch wheels, adjustable drive settings, xenon headlights, LED running lights, automatic wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, a sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, tri-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats (includes heating and driver four-way lumbar adjustment), driver-seat memory settings and leather upholstery.
Standard tech for the 2.0T includes Bluetooth, Audi's MMI electronics interface, an 8-inch display, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Audi Connect (includes 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability) and a 10-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and media player interface. Also standard is Audi's Pre Sense Basic safety system, which senses when a collision is imminent and warns the driver, tensions the seat belts and closes the windows.
The Premium Plus (2.0T and 3.0T) trim adds LED headlights, a blind-spot warning system, power-folding mirrors, four-zone climate control, a power-adjustable steering wheel and a Bose surround-sound audio system.
At the top of the line is the 3.0T Prestige. It has the above equipment plus a top-view parking camera system, a power trunklid, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, front passenger adjustable lumbar, a power rear sunshade and manual rear side-window shades.
From here, Audi offers a variety of optional packages to further equip the A6. Keep an eye out for the Driver Assistance package (adaptive cruise control, the top-view camera system but with added front and rear corner views, lane departure warning and intervention, and forward collision warning and mitigation with automatic braking) and the Comfort Seating package (individually contoured and ventilated front seats with passenger-seat memory settings and massage function).
There's also the Competition package that comes with 20-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, a high-performance rear differential, sport front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, and various sporty styling flourishes inside and out.

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Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2018 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI Premium 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.77 per gallon for premium unleaded in New Jersey.
Monthly estimates based on costs in New Jersey
$162/mo for A6 2.0 TFSI Premium
A6 2.0 TFSI Premium
vs
$190/mo
Avg. Large Car
See Edmunds pricing data
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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
2.5 out of 5 stars2.5/5Average
#33 out of 48 among Luxury Fullsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Audi A6 from 2008-2022.$773/yr
vs. $729/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).2.4x/yr
vs. 1.74x/yr
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).14.6%
vs. 14.7%
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
for Average Luxury Fullsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Audi A6 Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(87%)
4(8%)
3(2%)
2(0%)
1(3%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
To get the most out of this car
5 out of 5 starsMr. C, 11/26/2018
2018 Audi A6 3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A)
This car is amazing and if you want to get the best version of the C7 A6 you will need a 3.0T trim level that offers the sport suspension. With the V-6, Quattro and sport suspension package, the icing on this cake is the 19" wheels only because the 20" wheels create a harsh ride at times that you wouldn't notice with either the 18" or 19" wheels. The C7 seems to be the last A6 that has … true exposed exhaust pipes and heat sinks. The Audi A6 has a "Launch Feature". A rarity for an ultra smooth riding luxury car. The car's handling and performance are so refined that you could never confuse the car for anything but true luxury. German luxury cars tend to be the best luxury cars IMO. This car drives more like a Mercedes vs. a BMW but it does have the mannerisms of both at times. It really is it's own car and the driving experience is user friendly and always enjoyable. It might be more expensive over other midsize luxury cars but other cheaper midsize luxury cars will be lacking in either high performance, handling or the highest quality materials. Not only does the A6 have all of this, it also has a silent cabin with an incredibly quiet engine to boot. Executive class at it's finest. If the overall reliability of this car is better than presumed, this could very well be the perfect car.
Best Car I Have Purchased
5 out of 5 starsPhillip Rossignol, 11/05/2016
2017 Audi A6 2.0T Premium Plus quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
Great car but avoid the 20 inch summer tires if you want a comfort ride. The 20 inch handle much better when the car is pushed in the curves. But for everyday, the smaller tires are better overall. This is my third Audi and I am sold.
Not the newest German mid size but still great
5 out of 5 starsChicago Mark, 04/29/2017
2017 Audi A6 3.0T Premium Plus quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A)
Looked at the 2016 BMW 5 series and the latest Mercedes E class (4 cylinder model). Ruled out the new 5 series for fear of 1st model year run reliability woes and the 6 cylinder E class is just too expensive. Just loved the ride and handling of the A6, it's the right combination of sport and luxury. Plus this is the only German midsize you can order with REAR side airbags and of … course outstanding crash testing. The ride and handling are outstanding. Some formal car magazine reviews had stated the steering is numb or light but I do not have that impression. The V6 gives you power whenever you want. I purchased a factory order Premium Plus with 19" sport package and the layered walnut. The 19" wheels ride well without added harshness and the 10 spoke wheels look stunning when paired with Florett Silver body color. The black headliner with black leather and layered walnut wood option make the cabin exceptionally rich. The MMI interface doesn't take that long to figure out. Voice commands are a little slow but the map with google earth view is pretty cool. The instrument cluster driver display can be customized to show different driver info and is nearly the equal of the newer cars that have the all digital display for the driver instrument panel. The Bose stereo is good but not great (and wasn't going to cough up $4200 for the Bang and Olufsen upgrade). Driver's assistance package work very well especially the adaptive cruise control keeping distance from the car ahead of you and lane assist keeping you in the lane. Yes it's the oldest of the German luxury mid sized sedans in terms of this version, but it stacks up well to the competition. I love it and have NO regrets buying it.
Love my A6 - If you're going to buy one, go all in
5 out of 5 starsKevin McCarron, 06/12/2018
2018 Audi A6 3.0 TFSI Prestige quattro 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A)
I've had guys who work at the dealership I bought my 2018 A6 remark that it's the nicest A6 they've seen. I bought the Prestige trim - 3.0T, driver assistance package, comfort seating package, and cold weather package - with florett silver metallic exterior and atlas beige (valcona) interior. I previously owned japanese cars - toyota or honda - that were progressively higher end trim … as I got older and had more disposable income, but they were never luxury cars. I personally subscribe to the belief that if you're going to buy a luxury car, wait until you truly can afford it then get the higher end, where you notice and can enjoy the engine performance, higher end tech, interior quality etc. I still love driving my A6 almost a year into owning it. In this case with the 3.0T Prestige plus options, it was close to $70k, no doubt a high cost, but again, I waited quite some time and took care of other financial priorities first. In owning the A6 Prestige 3.0T plus options, I notice the drastic difference between my beautiful, powerful A6 and the less powerful, pedestrian quality materials on lesser A6 versions when I use a dealer loaner. BTW, there is an important warranty option - 10 years, 120,000 miles. At this cost, meaning the high relative cost of a fully decked out A6, compared with a few thousand more for this extensive warranty, I am surprised some choose not to buy this. It seemed like a no brainer to me.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 Audi A6, so we've included reviews for other years of the A6 since its last redesign.
2018 A6 Highlights
2.0 TFSI Premium
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $49,700 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 28 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $162/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 14.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the A6 models:
- Audi Pre Sense
- Senses when a collision is imminent and warns the driver, tensions the seat belts and closes the windows
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Warns you when you're drifting out of your lane and can subtly steer you back onto the straight and narrow.
- Audi Connect
- Helps with a variety of services, including summoning roadside assistance. In an accident, emergency responders are contacted automatically.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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