“The 2014 ?Audi A6 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel a revelation “

The Audi A6 underwent a complete and dramatic restyling from nose to tail in 2005. The car was both sleek and elegant in one ? those elements haven?t changed significantly.?The Audi A6 represents the core model of Audi?s luxury sport sedan offerings. In 2009 there were more significant changes for the entire A6 model line n all of its available forms, and now, the latest iteration A6 for 2014 blends spirited driving dynamics and new state-of-the-art technological equipment and features, providing elevated levels of comfort, convenience and security.?The 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI features lightweight construction, with extensive use of aluminum, including suspension componentry, and an athletic exterior design that displays? a bold, yet elegant persona. Sharp lines, short overhangs and distinctive as well as functional design elements such as the optional LED headlights and standard LED taillights display a distinctive road presence.

Nothing in this latest iteration A6 has gone untouched, though the exterior enhancements are most subtle, and not radically different from last year. Great attention was devoted to the materials used, with fit and finish that renders the interior a far cry from mediocrity. The interior provides an ambience that exudes luxurious comfort and practical conveniences, with a driver-oriented cockpit ? modern, yet understated.

The most significant accomplishment of the new 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI sedan is the integration of standard, state-of-the-art technologies ? both in terms of safety and of connectivity. Available are Audi?s acclaimed MMI?, Google Earth? which is combined with Google? Local Search, Wi-Fi? hot spot for up to eight devices, along with the ability to locate the lowest fuel prices or to view weather forecasts. Additionally, the connection of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth? audio streaming provides seamless Internet radio and audio file streaming.

Vehicle control and stability are enhanced by Audi?s available quattro all-wheel drive system, Electronic Stability Control, Night Vision Assistant, Head Up Display and Lane Assist technologies including Audi Side Assist. Safety features include: Audi?s pre sense and pre sense plus.

The 2014 Audi A6 lineup offers four engine variants for the U.S. market: a 2.0T ?turbocharged TFSI inline 4-cylinder; a 3.0T Supercharged TFSI V6; the new 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI turbocharged Clean Diesel; and finally, a 4.0T turbocharged TFSI V8 engine for the S6. Two trim levels will continue to be offered for the 2014 model year: The Audi A6 Premium or A6 Premium Plus. Available option packages include: a Driver Assistance Package; the A6 Prestige model package with S line exterior; a 19? Sport Package; and the new Black Optic Package.

My test 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI was in Premium Plus trim, with the ?TDI Clean Diesel V6 mated to the 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It sported an elegant Glacier White metallic exterior, complemented by a Black interior. The base sticker was set at $57,500 while the metallic paint, Driver Assistance Package, A6 Prestige Package, 19-inch Sport Package, Black Optic Package and Destination charge elevated the final sticker price to $67,295.

SUMMARY:? This latest iteration Audi A6 quattro is an extremely gratifying example of a performance-oriented luxury sedan, regardless of one’s choice of motive power, but the new 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel V6 makes perfect sense for drivers who want performance, but also desire extended range and optimal fuel economy.

In a recent Audi TDI Efficiency Rally that took place in and around the Washington D.C area, three Audi models were provided to prove to a group of national automotive journalists, the advantages of diesel fueled vehicles ? they were the Audi A6, Audi A7 and the Audi Q5 SUV. All performed admirably, setting aside any preconceived notions that might have once been held that diesel power is noisy, smelly, dirty and inferior to gasoline-fueled vehicles. Quite to the contrary, the 3.0 TDI Clean Diesel vehicles were quiet, clean burning, gave off no diesel odor, ?provided more torque and were only discernable as diesels when at idle with the hood open. The A6 appears as a more mainstream sedan, while the A7 rear hatch design displays a sleeker persona, and the Q5 is an ideally ?sized SUV.

The electronic 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission provides smooth transitions from gear to gear with the dynamic shift program, and Audi’s quattro? permanent all-wheel drive system delivers surefootedness in driving scenarios where traction, or the lack thereof becomes an issue. The speed-sensitive Servotronic ? steering supplements the precise handling of the A6 with a heightened level of precision in steering.

The 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI gives the impression of being in motion, even when parked. It provides a pleasing ride quality minus any “float and roll” ? a trait associated with many luxury sedans. The low, sloping, sculpted hood and pronounced, bold trapezoidal grille prominently displays the German automaker’s four-linked-ring insignia. The A6 exhibits a muscular sleekness that flows pleasingly and effortlessly from nose to tail, and even with the taut overall design concept, the interior accommodations are quite roomy and luxurious. The cockpit is definitely driver-focused, enveloping the pilot and front passenger with rich materials and textures. The three-spoke multifunction steering wheel offers a gratifying and substantial feel.

The Multi Media Interface (MMI) control terminal, located behind the gearshift lever, is in perfect ergonomic arrangement and places its display exactly in the driver’s line of vision, integrated beneath the top dashboard cover. The keyless engine start/stop button offered a nice touch, as did the electronic park brake, with its console mounted set/release switch. The display screen stows neatly into the dash when exiting the car, reappearing when firing up the engine.

The 2014 Audi A6 3.0 TDI continues to progress in an evolutionary manner, with a heightened level of sophistication. but with a sense of purpose as well. Should you require more in the way of technology, amenities and spaciousness, Audi’s A8 L presents itself as the most likely prospect — provided that your budget allows. If however, your funds are totally without limit, and performance is key, then there?s Audi?s R8 V10 Spyder to consider.

Whatever you do however, don?t rule out the prospect of diesel ? it deserves a more prominent place in our society, and it?s growing rapidly in popularity, with the compact car share of diesels expected to more than double by 2018.
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[wptabtitle] SPECIFICATIONS: 2014Audi A6 3.0 TDI quattro sedan [/wptabtitle]
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Base Price:	$57,500.
Price as Tested:	$67,295.
Engine Type and Size:	3.0-liter , DOHC, 24-valve turbocharged, intercooled V6 with variable valve timing and spark ignition direct injection clean diesel.
Horsepower (bhp):	240 @ 3,500-3,750 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.):	428 @ 1,750-2,250 rpm
Transmission:	Eight-speed automatic with Tiptronic and Dynamic Shift Program.
Drive Train:	Longitudinally mounted front engine / Quattro all-wheel-drive system with hypoid gear with electronic locking front differential, torque sensing center differential and hypoid gear rear differential with electronic locking.
Suspension:	Front – Five-link with twin-tube-gas-filled shock absorbers and anti-roll bar. Rear – Trapezoidal-link with twin-tube-gas-filled shock absorbers.

Brakes: Vacuum power assisted four wheel ventilated discs, ABS, ESP and electronic rear brake proportioning.Tires: Pirelli P-Zero 255/35 R20 Summer mounted on 5-rotor-spoke Titanium-finished alloy wheels.Wheelbase:114.7 inchesLength Overall:193.9 inchesWidth:82.1 inchesHeight:57.8 inchesCurb Weight:4,178 lbsFuel Capacity:TBD: gallons – other models are 19.8 gallonsEPA Mileage Estimates:24 mpg city / 38 mpg highwayDrag Coefficient:0.280 – 60 mph: 5.5 seconds / Top speed electronically limited to 130 mph.

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