Used Audi A6 Avant 2004 - 2011 review

The Audi A6 Avant is big in every way: big on space, prestige, equipment and power. It has everything you'd expect of an executive cruiser, with added practicality.

Five adults will be perfectly comfortable in the cabin, thanks to generous head, leg and shoulder space all-round and a multi-adjustable driving position.

Central to the A6 Avant's appeal is its big boot. Even with the rear seats in place, there's plenty of space for a family's holiday luggage, while with them folded you could use it to move house.

Its handling is pretty impressive, too. The A6 Avant changes direction sharply, resists body roll well and grips the road strongly.

Front- and four-wheel-drive versions are available, along with optional self-levelling air suspension – useful for those who carry heavy loads on a regular basis. The standard car's ride feels firm over poor surfaces, though.

The diesel models are by far the most efficient - the 2.0 TDI has an official average of 46.0mpg, the 2.7 TDI manages 39.8mpg and the 3.0 V6 TDI 34.9mpg.

The 2.0 petrol returns a reasonable 34.5mpg, while the 2.4 V6 and 3.2 V6 FSI return an average 28.2mpg. Pick a larger-capacity petrol and you'll struggle to see 25mpg, though.

Insurance ratings are pretty high, and if you take your A6 to be serviced at an Audi dealer and you'll need to be prepared for big bills, too: labour rates are among the highest around, although not usually as high as those charged by BMW and Mercedes dealers. You should be able to save a fair amount by using an independent specialist instead.

Most engines are strong, although the base 2.0 petrol and 2.0 turbodiesel feel slightly short of puff and struggle to pull the Avant when fully loaded. The 2.4 V6 is stronger, but the 3.2 V6 petrol is a better bet. It's smooth and provides strong pulling power over a wide rev range, as do the 2.7 and 3.0 V6 turbodiesels.

The 4.2 V8 petrol is hugely powerful and sounds great, while the direct-injection 4.2 V8 is punchier still, yet is more fuel-efficient.

Our favourite is the 3.0 V6 diesel, which comes with Audi's quattro four-wheel drive, as it has the best balance between power and economy. Stick with entry-level SE trim, which should provide all the equipment you need: climate control, cruise control, alloys, a CD player, traction control and automatic headlights and wipers. S-line versions have stiffened suspension and sportier cabin trim.

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