TEST DRIVE: Audi A6 3.0 TDI quattro

MANILA, Philippines - The latest Audi A6 is 12mm (roughly half an inch) shorter than its predecessor. Its wheelbase, however, is 70mm longer and the front overhang is 80mm shorter. The new proportions make the new A6 look longer and more purposeful than its predecessor; not only that, it’s more spacious, too.

And with that big, bold, black grille, it looks meaner as well. The rest of the styling is typical of Audi’s trademark design language: smooth, minimalist lines, ultra-small panel gaps, headlamps with those distinctive white LED daytime running lamps, and a clean functional rear end.

The leather-lined interior meets the highest standards, with a seat offering that even includes the option of the comfort seat with climate control and massage function from the flagship A8, a large number of ergonomically placed storage spaces, an even more user-friendly Multi Media Interface (MMI), and the deluxe automatic air-conditioning that allows individual temperature control for all four seats.

Added comfort is provided by subtle details that enhance the overall feel-good factor. More insulation material and thicker side windows reduce noise levels in the interior while larger tires provide greater ride and suspension comfort. In addition, there are numerous electronic accessories to make driving safer. Advanced assist systems such as Audi Side Assist, Audi Adaptive Light, and innovative LED headlights help the driver avoid critical situations. And if worse comes to worst, the Audi Pre-Sense safety package guarantees the best possible preparation of vehicle and occupants for an impending collision.

While most of the A6’s buyers will fall for its sleek styling or luxuriously plush interior, it’s what’s under the hood that truly excites me: a 3.0-liter common-rail direct-injection turbo-diesel V6 that develops a seemingly average 245 hp at 4,000 rpm but backs it up with a truly astounding 500 Nm of torque at a ridiculously accessible 1,400 rpm.

Want to know what 500 Nm feels? Floor the throttle and hang on. The all-wheel-drive A6 will dig its heels and rocket forward with nary a chirp from the tires, pushing you firmly against your seat. The A6 3.0 TDI will rocket from 0 to 100 kph in about six seconds and reach a top speed of 250 kph—all with the seven-speed S-tronic gearbox in the “D” position. (You may also shift the gearbox manually via + and – gates or via paddle shifters.) My test A6 had virginal white paint, perfect for a bridal car, specifically newlyweds who want to get to their honeymoon destination fast—really fast. 

Handling? What could arguably be the most sophisticated suspension and all-wheel-drive combination deliver gecko-like grip. The new electromechanical power steering and the Quattro sport differential make help a lot too in raising the large yet lightweight sedan to a new level of agility.

Gripes? I was supposed to mention its P5.55 million retail price, but when I saw that the similarly equipped BMW 530d goes for almost P6.4 million—and the P5.38 million Mercedes E 250 CDI was sorely down in the engine output department, I found no recourse but to pronounce the A6 3.0 RDI quattro as simply the best bang for the buck.

THE HIGHS

stunningly strong acceleration

outstanding all-wheel-drive grip and handling

extremely high build quality

gobs of high-tech comfort, convenience and safety features

superb turbo-diesel fuel economy

THE LOWS

can’t afford it

THE VERDICT

Need a really fast bridal car? Put four rings on it. And get Jason Statham to drive.