Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008): The Discreet Executive That Still Nails the Brief
I’ve always had a soft spot for the Audi A6 C6, especially the Long/“A6L” version from 2004–2008. It’s the sort of premium sedan that doesn’t elbow you in the ribs and shout about its luxury—it just gets on with the job. The first time I slipped into the back of a Long-wheelbase car after a flight, I remember thinking, “Ah, so this is what business class feels like on four wheels.” Quiet. Plush. Unflustered. And when I took one across a rain-soaked motorway late at night, the way it settled into a calm cruise cemented why this generation still hits the sweet spot.
Why the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long Still Feels Special
The Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008) arrived at a time when Audi was obsessed (in a good way) with tight panel gaps, minimalist design, and tech that didn’t feel like a science project. The Long version dialed in extra rear legroom—perfect for airport runs, client dinners, or simply stretching out after a long day. It’s an understated, premium sedan that excels at what matters: comfort, stability, and that hushed Audi ambience that feels like driving in slippers.
The A6L was developed primarily for markets that value rear-seat comfort (think China), with a longer wheelbase and improved rear-seat amenities. Yet it works brilliantly anywhere you appreciate proper legroom and a serene ride.
Engines and Performance: What You Can Expect
Under the bonnet, the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long offered a mix of petrol and diesel options (market dependent), most commonly:
- 2.0 TFSI (FWD, Multitronic): punchy enough, best for urban duty
- 3.2 FSI V6 (quattro Tiptronic): the sweet spot for many owners
- 4.2 V8 (quattro Tiptronic): the quiet bruiser—effortlessly quick
- 2.7 TDI and 3.0 TDI (quattro in many markets): long-legged torque and stellar economy
Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long: Real-World Numbers
- Power: 170–350 hp (market/engine dependent)
- Torque: up to 332 lb-ft (notably on the 3.0 TDI)
- 0–60 mph: ~8.0 sec (2.0 TFSI) to ~5.7 sec (4.2 V8)
- Economy: 16–23 mpg (US) for the petrol V6/V8; 30–40 mpg (Imp) easily achievable on the TDIs
- Drive: FWD (Multitronic CVT) or quattro (6‑speed Tiptronic); manuals in some regions
On the road, the A6L doesn’t dive into corners like a sports sedan, but it’s stable and sure-footed. Quattro cars in particular feel planted in poor weather. I’ve pushed one along a slippery B-road and it simply got on with it—no theatrics, just grip and calm.
Ride, Handling, and Day-to-Day Living
The long-wheelbase version smooths out patchy asphalt the way a good espresso smooths a rough morning. Cars with optional air suspension ride beautifully, though even steel-sprung versions are composed. The steering is light and accurate; it won’t thrill you like a BMW E60, but it will keep your passengers serene—sometimes that’s the brief.
Noise levels are seriously low—quiet enough to hear your kids arguing in the back about who gets the window seat. And at a 75 mph cruise, the cabin hush is executive-jet good.
Interior and Tech: Subtle Luxury, Properly Executed
Step inside and the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long still looks tidy and modern. The MMI interface (2G in this era) is easy once you learn the rhythm, the seats are supportive on long hauls, and the rear bench in the Long version is limousine-grade for this class. You got DVD-based navigation, adaptive xenons in many trims, and Bose audio was common; Bang & Olufsen appeared rarely but is a gem if you find one.
Highlights That Made Living With the A6 C6 Easy
- Longer wheelbase = outstanding rear legroom
- Classy, minimal interior design that’s aged gracefully
- Quattro confidence in foul weather
- Comfort-first ride, especially on sensible wheels/tires
- MMI with logical menus; physical buttons for key functions
Floor Mats Spotlight: Keep It Clean, Keep It Classy
I always tell A6 owners: protect that cabin early. A set of tailored mats keeps the winter grime at bay and helps the interior stay fresh.
Premium Pick: AutoWin’s Made-to-Fit Mats for the A6 C6 Sedan Long
If you’re after a proper fit and a finish that doesn’t look “aftermarket,” AutoWin does well-finished, model-specific mats for the A6 C6 Sedan Long. They clip in securely, don’t bunch under the pedals, and clean up with a quick hoover.
Explore the range here:
If you live where winters are messy, consider a rubberized mat set for the wet months and a plush set for the rest of the year. Your carpets (and future resale) will thank you.
Ownership: Reliability and What to Watch For
Overall, the Audi A6 C6 is a solid piece of engineering, but after two decades of road time, a few items are worth a look on any used example:
- Multitronic CVT (FWD): Smooth when healthy, but requires diligent fluid changes; avoid abused examples.
- 3.2 FSI carbon buildup: Direct injection can coke up intake valves; walnut blasting restores pep.
- 4.2 V8 timing components: Listen for cold-start rattles; maintenance history matters.
- MMI quirks: Screen pixels, DVD nav drives, and battery drains from water ingress (check cowl drains).
- Front suspension arms/bushes: These cars are heavy; worn bushes cause clunks and uneven tire wear.
- TDI swirl flaps/EGR: Common diesel wear points; many cars have been proactively updated.
Buy on condition and service history, and the A6L will run like a well-sorted executive shuttle. A few owners told me they’ve crossed 150,000 miles with nothing more than routine maintenance and the odd sensor.
How the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long Stacks Up
| Executive Sedan | Length / Wheelbase | Power Range | Drivetrain | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008) | ~197.6 in / ~115.6 in | 170–350 hp | FWD (CVT) or quattro (auto) | Calm, classy, brilliant in bad weather |
| BMW 5 Series E60 | ~191–192 in / ~113.7 in | 170–360+ hp | RWD or xDrive | Sharpened handling, firmer ride |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class W211 | ~191–192 in / ~112.4 in | 177–382+ hp | RWD or 4Matic | Comfort-first, stately feel |
| Lexus GS (S190) | ~190–192 in / ~112.2 in | 245–300+ hp | RWD or AWD | Silky smooth, superb reliability |
Dimensions and Practicality
- Length (A6L): about 197–198 inches (5,015 mm)
- Wheelbase (A6L): about 115.6 inches (2,945 mm)
- Width: about 73 inches
- Boot: roughly 15.9 cu ft with a useful ski hatch
It’ll swallow two large suitcases and a couple of soft bags without complaint. Door bins are average-sized, and the cupholders are fine—nothing to write home about, but secure enough for your flat white.
Verdict: The Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long, Done Right
Even today, the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008) is an easy car to recommend if you value quiet confidence over splashy theatrics. It’s a premium sedan that rides beautifully, looks timeless, and—if you buy carefully—can be a dependable partner for years. Honestly, I wasn’t sure at first whether the long-wheelbase would feel floaty. It doesn’t. It feels right.
FAQ: Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008)
How long is the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long?
Approximately 197–198 inches (about 5,015 mm) in overall length with a wheelbase of roughly 115.6 inches (2,945 mm). Standard-wheelbase cars are shorter, around 193–194 inches.
Is the 2008 Audi A6 a good car?
Yes. The 2008 A6 is widely praised for comfort, highway refinement, and a quality cabin. The 3.2 V6 quattro is a great all-rounder; diesel fans love the 3.0 TDI’s torque and economy.
Which engine is best for the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long?
For balance, the 3.2 FSI quattro. For economy and long-distance torque, the 3.0 TDI. The 4.2 V8 is the sleeper choice if you want quiet speed and can live with the fuel bills.
What issues should I look out for on a used A6 C6?
Service history is crucial. Check for Multitronic CVT maintenance (if FWD), carbon buildup on 3.2 FSI, timing noise on 4.2 V8, MMI/nav glitches, suspension arm wear, and TDI swirl flap/EGR updates.
Where can I get quality floor mats for the A6 C6 Sedan Long?
Have a look at AutoWin’s selection for the Audi A6 C6 Sedan Long (2004–2008)—they’re tailored to fit and easy to clean.
