Is the 2026 Audi A6 a Good Sedan? 4 Pros, 3 Cons
The Audi A6 sedan is redesigned for 2026, bringing a streamlined powertrain lineup that leaves a turbocharged six-cylinder as the only engine choice. Other changes include additional standard tech and convenience features, while sleek new sheet metal combines current Audi styling cues with the conservative and upscale look long associated with the brand. Be wary, however, as it all comes with a significant price increase.
Related: The All-New 2026 Audi A6 Is Faster, Techier and Colder Than Ever: Review
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The base four-cylinder engine is no more, along with the performance-focused, 444-horsepower S6 that enthusiast drivers will sorely miss, but if you’re clever with the configurator, a new Sport Plus Package recreates at least some of the S6’s driving experience. As always, A6 competitors include the BMW 5 Series, Genesis G80 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Cars.com West Coast Editor ConnerGolden checked out the newest A6 on the twisty two-lanes and highways of Southern California. Tap the link above for his expert review; keep reading for a quick look at four things we like about the 2026 Audi A6 and three things we do not.
What Do We Like About the 2026 Audi A6?
1. Sweet Six
The newly standard turbo 3.0-liter V-6 is largely the same as the outgoing model’s optional engine, but with a new turbocharger and other tweaks that result in a modest power bump to 362 hp and 406 pounds-feet of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, power is smooth and refined if not head-snappingly quick, making for easy merging and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.5 seconds.
2. Sport Plus Trim
S6 fans can take heart in that a new Sport Plus Package for the A6 brings back some of the discontinued performance model’s DNA even though it gets by with less output. Only available with the top Prestige trim, the Sport Plus Package gets you livelier handling and response thanks to a sport suspension, upgraded rear differential, rear-wheel steering, summer tires, trim-specific 21-inch wheels and sport seats. There’s also a selection of S-branded trim inside and out.
3. Cushy Cruiser
Even with the Sport Plus Package, the redesigned A6 is more of a relaxed and comfortable touring car than a performance-minded sedan — and that’s OK with us. While it’s capable of tackling the twisties more than most Audi buyers are likely to want to experience, the A6 is more about long-distance comfort and refinement than sharp handling. To that end, new engine bushings, revised transmission gears and other mods have resulted in a claimed 30% reduction in noise, vibration and harshness.
4. Flush With Features
A dramatic new dashboard features an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster that flows seamlessly into a 14.5-inch center infotainment touchscreen, with another 10.9-inch available display to keep the front passenger entertained. Other new standard features across the board include adaptive cruise control, wireless device charging, a power trunk lid, ventilated front seats and an electrochromic panoramic moonroof that can be darkened at the touch of a button.
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What Do We Dislike About the 2026 Audi A6?
1. Farewell, S6
The elimination of the S6 leaves a hole in the lineup that is partly, but not entirely, made up by the Sport Plus Package, something that more than a few buyers are likely to miss. While the package adds summer tires, a more sporting suspension and other goodies, that 80-hp deficit compared to the S6 may lead some performance-minded drivers straight to the competition.
2. Shiny Black Plastic
3. A Hike Is a Hike
The redesign comes with a hefty $6,000 price increase, much of which can be written off to the elimination of the cheaper four-cylinder engine. Still, it’s a big number, especially for buyers who were happy with the four-cylinder’s performance and fuel economy. Those buyers still have the option of less expensive four-cylinder versions of the BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class; that said, our test car’s $79,140 price tag (including destination) is competitive with the BMW 540i xDrive and Mercedes-Benz E450 4Matic sedans, both of which come with six-cylinder engines and all-wheel drive.
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