Summary
What Edmunds.com says
Solid performance and an elegant cabin design make the A6 a worthy competitor in the luxury sedan class, but BMW's 5 Series is more athletic and Mercedes carries more brand cachet, so it can't be called a class leader just yet.
Pros
Heavenly cabin furnishings, varied menu of engines, all-wheel-drive utility.
Cons
Nonlinear steering, limited availability of manual transmission.
What's New for 2004
A sport mode is added to the "multitronic" CVT, the center console's retractable cup holder is replaced by a power point and all quattro models now come standard with a sunroof.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
Nice, Costly Family Sportster
Vehicle
2004 Audi A6 4.2 quattro AWD 4dr Sedan (4.2L 8cyl 5A)
Review
I bought this car from pampering owner. I had a '98 A8 10yrs ago that I prefer. The car looks awesome but I find myself nickel and diming my way through ownership of this Audi too. Both of my 5 series BMW's and my two Volvo's (S60 & S80) were much less expensive to own. I hit a small deer at 20 mph that cost 5K to repair- chalk 1 for the dealer. Can't seem to get the ride completely smooth and the dealership always finds something. The car is not as fast off the line as the engine sounds, but it is great on the highway. Big gas tank is great for trips and the highway mpg is great--especially compared to the dismal in-city driving with a heavy foot. Overall- not sure it's worth it.
Favorite Features
Highway speed is great. Huge gas tank delivers about 500mi on highway. Looks of 4.2 body. Folding back seat is great in sedan. Leather still looks and smells new. Even though it is expensive to repair, I figure I'll still save 20K off new in the end. :)
Suggested Improvements
The arm rest is held on by cheap plastic pieces-- both broke. Some of the plastic/paint is pealing from the inside door pulls. Light doors seem to get slammed shut by all kids. Expect to spend on maintenance if you don't buy new.
AMAZING
Vehicle
2004 Audi A6 2.7T quattro AWD 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl Turbo 5A)
Review
I just bought this car at the beginning of the week, but did a lot of reviews on it, and they were all very good. I LOVE the car so far. I can't wait until this winter to try out the AWD! I just wish the gas mileage was a bit better, but it's ok for how amazing the car is!
Favorite Features
I love the BOSE sound system! I also like the Xenon auto leveling lights and the climate control works really really good! The front and rear heated seats are very nice as well.
Suggested Improvements
Just the gas mileage and the cup holders!
2004 model year has the best reliability
Vehicle
2004 Audi A6 2.7T S-Line quattro AWD 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl Turbo 5A)
Review
I'm the 2nd owner off lease. I've been driving it for 2 years now. First couple of months the car was stock and throttle response a bit dead. I had the ECU chipped and it really livened it up. Plus gas mileage is a couple per gallon better (not great about 20 MPG combined city / hwy). I've tinted the windows and added aftermarket wheels to the otherwise boring design of the 18" S- Line stockers. Oil lines to the turbos were updated for 2004 so no more blown turbos (one goes you've got to replace the other)! Ride is very nice and not too harsh. S-Line A6 2.7t's aren't on every corner so you feel like you're in a more exclusive club. Love the car...luxury and sportiness all in one!
Favorite Features
Interior is beautiful (typical Audi) better than BMW and Mercedes. Steering wheel controls, smooth flowing exterior, lower suspension and better handling with the sport package. AC/Heat is very quick in doing its job. Very roomy interior with plenty of space for four 6' tall men. Quick car!
Suggested Improvements
CUP HOLDERS for the front passengers. Stereo could be have more power. Stock diverter valves don't hold boost for the turbos effectively.
AUDIOS to BMW and Mercedes!
Vehicle
2004 Audi A6 2.7T quattro AWD 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl Turbo 5A)
Review
Having owned 3 Audis this is by far the best one... quality, comfort, speed, all weather capable... what more is there! This Audi beats BMW and Mercedes... hands down... the only downfall is the HIGH maintenance costs. But every car is high to maintain these days.
Favorite Features
style, comfort, speed, all weather capabilities
Suggested Improvements
gas mileage, stronger armrest hinges, even more power
LUXURY & sport for 20k
Vehicle
2004 Audi A6 2.7T S-Line quattro AWD 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl Turbo 5A)
Review
If you're dumb enough to buy a $50k car and complain that it costs a lot to maintain (when you only paid 20k for it) then shame on you. This is a phenomenal car and beats the pants off any comparable, or even brand new, car you can get for ~20k. I've had 2 and loved them both. (148k miles, and 22k miles) The car is fast, comfortable, reliable (if you keep it up), and an awesome daily driver.
Favorite Features
the things not listed in your common report: simplicity of design, advanced functionality, aerodynamics, steering control, durability of interior, ease on eyes displays, automated stereo, nav, environmental controls...
Suggested Improvements
dash display lights fad afteer ~45k miles (in every one I've seen)
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