Motor Trend Names Audi A6 a Car of the Year Finalist, Says Brand Is on the Road to Redemption

[Source: Motor Trend]

Audi has built some of the finest luxury sedans in automotive history, but even the most successful manufacturers occasionally lose their way. Between increasingly complicated technology, questionable interior decisions, and fierce competition, Audi hasn’t always enjoyed the glowing reviews it once did. However, the new A6 might be exactly what the brand needs to turn things around. At least that’s the impression coming from Motor Trend, which has named the 2027 Audi A6 a finalist for its prestigious Car of the Year award.

In its review of the new A6, Motor Trend describes the sedan as another step toward redemption for the four-ringed brand. That’s a pretty significant endorsement considering the competition in the luxury sedan segment.

A Return to Form for Audi?

The A6 has long occupied an important position in Audi’s lineup, offering buyers a compelling alternative to the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It has traditionally combined understated styling, sophisticated technology, and quattro all-wheel-drive capability in a package that doesn’t necessarily scream for attention. The latest generation attempts to build on that formula with updated styling, a thoroughly redesigned interior, and the latest generation of Audi’s digital technology.

Motor Trend’s judges found plenty to appreciate about the new sedan, particularly its technology and the improvements Audi has made to the overall package. The A6 delivers the kind of modern luxury experience buyers expect from a premium German manufacturer while demonstrating that Audi is making progress in several important areas. That’s encouraging news for enthusiasts who remember when Audi interiors were widely considered among the industry’s best.

Not Quite a Perfect Score

Of course, earning a Car of the Year finalist spot doesn’t mean the A6 escaped criticism. Motor Trend’s evaluation identified some shortcomings, including throttle response, transmission behavior, and a ride that can feel firmer than expected. Those are meaningful criticisms for a vehicle expected to balance luxury, comfort, and driving enjoyment.

And while the new A6 represents progress, the competition certainly isn’t standing still. BMW and Mercedes-Benz continue to refine their midsize luxury offerings, meaning Audi needs to deliver more than attractive styling and impressive screens to win over buyers. Still, the fact that the A6 made it into Motor Trend’s finalist group suggests Audi is moving in the right direction.

Is Audi Finding Its Groove Again?

Perhaps the most interesting part of Motor Trend’s assessment isn’t any individual feature or performance figure. It’s the suggestion that Audi is beginning to rediscover what made the brand so appealing in the first place. The A6 isn’t trying to be an outrageous supercar or a track-focused performance machine. Its mission is to be an excellent luxury sedan, something Audi has historically done extremely well.

Whether the A6 ultimately takes home Motor Trend’s 2027 Car of the Year award remains to be seen. But earning finalist honors is already a meaningful accomplishment. And for Audi enthusiasts hoping to see the brand return to its former glory, that’s certainly something worth celebrating.