What kind of chemistry do you have with your car? Love it? Loathe it? Let us know and you could win a £300 John Lewis voucher | No thanks

Audi A6 Avant (2018–)

Item: Audi A6 Avant (2018)
Rating: 5
Author: Honest John

Last updated 15 April 2019

Premium interior with lots of space. Mild-hybrid technology contributes to low running costs.

Dim-witted eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox. Expensive.

Updated 11 April 2019

Audi S6 announced with 3.0 TDI diesel engine

Audi has announced that its S6 Saloon, S6 Avant and S7 Sportback models will be offered with a diesel engine for the first time. The 3.0-litre V6 TDI engine works with an electric compressor to provide...

Get a My Car Check report now

Get Gap Insurance from
£234 for 3 years

Get insurance quote Finance this car Fuel Cost Calculator

Introduction

Not everyone wants an SUV, and premium estate cars like the Audi A6, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series prove that you can combine practicality with a plush interior and an enjoyable driving experience.

Of course, the Audi A6 Avant is very similar to the saloon model. That means you get an excellent interior loaded with technology, including a twin-screen infotainment system and optional Virtual Cockpit. It feels very upmarket, while there's loads of space for the whole family - including a huge boot (if not quite as big as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class's). There's more headroom in the back than the A6 saloon.

There's a choice of petrol and diesel engines, all with mild-hybrid technology contributing to reduced running costs. This allows the A6 Avant to coast with the engine off between 34mph and 99mph - although you'll hardly notice it kicking in and out.

The majority of buyers will opt for the 40 TDI for its low running costs. It's a good engine - quiet and refined, with a reasonable amount of performance on offer. Its seven-speed S tronic gearbox is better than the eight-speed tiptronic used in the 50 TDI, too.

For those wanting a little more performance, the 50 TDI is surprisingly rapid - although noticeably heavier. There's also a plug-in hybrid version due late in 2019, for those ready to turn their back on diesel.

Whichever engine you choose, the Audi A6 Avant is a very refined car that'll take the pain out of long journeys. It's got a big boot and plenty of space in the rear for carrying children (or adults, if you wish). The interior, although slightly sterile, feels of high quality with lots of soft-touch materials and plenty of technology to keep you entertained.

The biggest issue with the Audi A6 Avant is its price. Starting at close to £41,000, it's one of the most expensive cars in its class, and by the time you've raided the options list you could very quickly have a very pricey estate car. If you can justify it, though, it's also one of the most desirable cars in its class.