Motor Trend Says New Audi A6 Makes a Strong Case That Audi Is Back

[Source: Motor Trend]

Audi has spent the past several years reinventing itself, and the new 2026 A6 might be one of the strongest signs yet that the effort is paying off. The latest generation is bigger, more powerful, packed with new technology, and, according to MotorTrend, considerably more competitive with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class than the car it replaces. After putting the A6 through its instrumented testing, MotorTrend concluded that Audi is “back on task.” The numbers certainly help make that case.

Every U.S.-market A6 gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. MotorTrend tested versions with both the standard steel suspension and optional air suspension on Prestige and Sport trims. The sportier car proved surprisingly quick. It hit 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and covered the quarter-mile in 13.2 seconds at 105.3 mph.

Not an S6, But Still Seriously Quick

Remember, this isn’t an S6 or RS 6. It’s the standard A6. The Sport model also pulled 0.94 g on the skidpad and stopped from 60 mph in an impressive 106 feet. The Prestige trim car recorded a 4.9-second sprint to 60 mph.

There is still room for improvement. MotorTrend criticized the A6’s restrained throttle calibration, finding that drivers have to dig surprisingly deep into the accelerator before accessing all that V6 power. Even selecting Dynamic mode doesn’t completely solve the problem.

Inside, however, Audi appears to be rediscovering some of the magic that once made its cabins an industry benchmark. MotorTrend praised the materials, spacious rear seat, and latest infotainment system. The centerpiece is a 14.5-inch touchscreen joined by Audi’s 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit, while an optional 10.9-inch passenger display adds even more screen real estate.

Safety Is Another Big Win

Perhaps more importantly for anyone actually using an A6 as a family car, the new sedan has earned the 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the organization’s highest award. The A6 received Good ratings in the small-overlap front, moderate-overlap front, and side crash tests. Its standard vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian front crash-prevention systems also earned Good ratings.

That’s especially notable because IIHS tightened its requirements for 2026, including tougher standards for crash avoidance and occupant protection.

Prices start at $65,495, although MotorTrend’s two test cars climbed to $77,820 and $80,720 with options. That’s serious money, but the publication notes that a Mercedes-Benz E450 starts above $75,000 before options.

The new A6 isn’t perfect. But with 4.6-second acceleration, an upscale cabin, excellent technology, and top-tier safety ratings, it looks like Audi has built a serious contender again.