In short, the 2017 Audi A6 is a solid, well-made luxury sedan that blends a refined ride with strong tech and a premium interior. It stacks up well against rivals like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, though ownership costs and reliability considerations are worth weighing.
This article examines what the 2017 A6 does well, where it falls short, and what to consider if you’re eyeing a used example. We’ll look at performance, interior quality and tech, safety, reliability, and ownership costs, then offer guidance for buyers in the used-market landscape.
Performance and powertrains
The 2017 A6 offered two engine choices and shared Audi’s reputation for smooth, quiet operation. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produced about 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, delivering effortless daily acceleration and good efficiency. A broader-performance option was the 3.0-liter supercharged V6, which made around 333 horsepower and a similar torque punch for confident highway merging and brisk acceleration.
Engines
Two engines were available, with the four-cylinder prioritizing efficiency and the V6 delivering stronger performance. Both engines pair with a refined automatic transmission (an eight-speed) and drive through Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system on many trims.
Drivetrain and efficiency
Quattro all-wheel drive was commonly offered, contributing to solid handling and traction in varying conditions. Fuel economy tended to be better with the 2.0T, while the 3.0T offered more immediate power at the cost of a bit more fuel use.
Bottom line for performance: the A6 balances comfort and capability, with the V6 option delivering the most engaging acceleration and the 2.0T offering efficiency for daily commuting.
Interior, technology, and comfort
Inside, the A6 showcases Audi’s typical emphasis on premium materials, quiet cabins, and sophisticated design. Seating is comfortable for long trips, and the cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise. Across trims, materials feel substantial, switches have a premium tactile feel, and rear-seat space remains competitive for the class.
Cabin quality and space
High-grade materials, supportive seats, and thoughtful sound-dampening create a refined atmosphere. The rear seats are roomy enough for adults on shorter trips, though some rivals offer slightly more headroom for taller passengers.
Infotainment and technology
The A6's tech suite includes Audi’s MMI interface with navigation and a touchscreen/rotary controller in earlier models, plus advanced options like Virtual Cockpit—a digital instrument cluster—and a responsive, feature-rich driver-assistance package. Smartphone integration and wireless charging were available on higher trims.
Used-market note: technology feels current for a 2017 model, though some critics note the MMI system can be complex to navigate compared with simpler interfaces in some rivals.
Safety, reliability, and ownership costs
Safety equipment in the 2017 A6 was comprehensive for its time, with a range of driver-assistance features available, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control on higher trims. Reliability in the 2017 model year is generally respectable for a European luxury sedan, but maintenance and repair costs tend to be higher than non-luxury brands.
Safety features
Standard and available safety tech typically included adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, and multi-camera parking aids. Audi’s pre sense systems helped with collision avoidance and preparation for crashes.
Reliability and maintenance
As a six-year-old luxury vehicle, the A6 requires regular maintenance, and some owners report electrical gremlins and wear in components common to high-end sedans. The 2.0T engines are generally reliable but can accumulate carbon buildup on direct-injected engines if not properly serviced; the 3.0T V6 is known for strong power but can be more expensive to repair when issues arise. Overall ownership costs are higher than average for mainstream cars, partly due to parts, specialty labor, and the Audi brand’s service needs.
Used-market note: prices for well-maintained 2017 A6 models typically range in the mid-teens to mid-twenties of thousands, depending on trim level, mileage, and condition. Higher-mileage examples with proper maintenance can still deliver strong value if thoroughly inspected.
Pros and strengths
Before considering a used 2017 A6, here are the positive attributes buyers often cite:
- Refined ride and quiet cabin that emphasizes comfort on long trips
- Premium interior materials and build quality
- Strong engine options with smooth power delivery
- Advanced tech packages and available Virtual Cockpit
- Competitive trunk space and practical layout for a midsize sedan
- Solid resale value for a luxury European sedan when well maintained
In practice, these strengths make the A6 a strong pick for buyers who prize comfort, tech, and a premium feel in a sedan.
Drawbacks and caveats
Potential buyers should be aware of some common downsides associated with the 2017 A6, especially in the used market:
- Higher ownership costs, including maintenance, tires, and parts compared with non-luxury mainstream sedans
- Infotainment and control layout can be complex and occasionally finicky
- Reliability can vary by individual vehicle history; some electrical issues have been reported
- Trunk space is adequate but not class-leading in some configurations
- Repair costs for older European luxury models can be significant if major components need service
Taken together, these caveats suggest careful budgeting for upkeep and a thorough pre-purchase inspection when shopping used.
Summary
The 2017 Audi A6 stands out in the midsize luxury sedan segment for its combination of ride comfort, interior quality, and available high-end technology. It delivers solid daily performance, a quiet and refined cabin, and competitive features that hold up well against its main rivals. Prospective buyers should weigh the higher ownership costs and potential reliability quirks of an older European luxury car, and consider a detailed inspection and history check before purchase. If you value a premium, technology-rich interior and a serene highway ride, the 2017 A6 remains a compelling option in its class.