The third-generation Audi A6, known as the Audi A6 III (Typ C6), was produced from 2004 to 2011 and became a benchmark luxury midsize sedan from Audi. Built on the MLB platform, it offers a broad range of specs, including engines, transmissions, and dimensions. In this article, we dive deep into the **technical specifications of the Audi A6 III**, focusing on powertrains, gearboxes, drivetrains, size, and weight. We pay special attention to aspects relevant to the US used-car market, where the C6 A6 remains popular for its comfort, refinement, and prestige. **Audi A6 2004–2011 engines** include gasoline FSI/TFSI units, with transmissions ranging from manual to Tiptronic automatic. Exterior, interior, trim levels, and common issues are covered in other articles in this series.
Engines and Transmissions
The **Audi A6 2004–2011 engine lineup** is extensive, emphasizing performance and (for the era) reasonable efficiency. Gasoline FSI/TFSI engines range from around 170 to 580 hp, while imported TDI diesels (less common in the US) offered 140–240 hp. Transmissions include 6-speed manual, Multitronic CVT (mostly FWD), and 6-speed Tiptronic automatic (often with quattro). Drivetrain options are front-wheel drive or quattro all-wheel drive with Torsen center differential. Below is a table of the main powertrains from 2004–2011, based on specs relevant to US-market imports and equivalents.
| Engine (type, displacement, power) | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2.0 TFSI (gasoline, 1984 cc, 170 hp) | 6-speed manual / Multitronic | FWD |
| 2.4 V6 (gasoline, 2393 cc, 177 hp) | 6-speed manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic | FWD / AWD (quattro) |
| 2.8 FSI V6 (gasoline, 2773 cc, 210 hp) | 6-speed manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic | FWD / AWD (quattro) |
| 3.0 TFSI V6 (gasoline, 2995 cc, 290 hp) | 6-speed Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
| 3.2 FSI V6 (gasoline, 3123 cc, 256 hp) | 6-speed manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic | FWD / AWD (quattro) |
| 4.2 V8 (gasoline, 4163 cc, 335 hp) | 6-speed Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
| 4.2 FSI V8 (gasoline, 4163 cc, 350 hp) | 6-speed Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
| 5.2 V10 (S6, gasoline, 5204 cc, 435 hp) | 6-speed Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
| 5.0 V10 biturbo (RS6, gasoline, 4991 cc, 580 hp) | 6-speed Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
| 2.0 TDI (diesel, 1968 cc, 140–170 hp) – EU import | 6-speed manual / Multitronic | FWD |
| 2.7 TDI V6 (diesel, 2698 cc, 180–190 hp) – EU import | 6-speed manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic | FWD / AWD (quattro) |
| 3.0 TDI V6 (diesel, 2967 cc, 225–240 hp) – EU import | 6-speed manual / Tiptronic | AWD (quattro) |
These powertrains deliver 0–60 mph acceleration from about 5.5 to 10.3 seconds. The **Audi A6 engine overview** highlights gasoline dominance in the US market, with strong preference for quattro models on highways like I-95 or Route 66.
Dimensions and Weight
Audi A6 III dimensions vary by body style: sedan, Avant wagon, Allroad. The MLB platform delivers generous interior space. Curb weight starts around 3,400 lbs, gross up to about 5,200 lbs. Post-2008 facelift added slight length. Below is a table for key versions (sedan and Avant).
| Version | Length / Width / Height (in) | Wheelbase (in) | Curb / Gross Weight (lbs) | Drivetrain / Transmission |
| Sedan (pre-2008) | 193.5 / 73.0 / 57.4 | 111.9 | 3,400–4,050 / 4,670–5,220 | FWD / AWD; manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic |
| Sedan (post-2008) | 194.0 / 73.0 / 57.4 | 111.9 | 3,460–4,120 / 4,740–5,290 | FWD / AWD; manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic |
| Avant (wagon) | 194.2 / 73.0 / 57.6 | 111.9 | 3,550–4,210 / 4,830–5,380 | FWD / AWD; manual / Multitronic / Tiptronic |
| Allroad | 194.3 / 73.3 / 59.8 | 111.5 | 4,150–4,370 / 5,420–5,640 | AWD; Tiptronic |
Ground clearance ranges 5.1–7.3 inches (Allroad higher), cargo space: 19–58 cu ft (Avant).
Yearly Updates
The Audi A6 C6 received a facelift in 2008. Pre-2008: base engines included 2.0 TFSI, 2.4 V6, 3.2 FSI, 4.2 V8; diesels were mostly EU imports. Transmissions: manual, Multitronic, 6-speed Tiptronic. Post-facelift: added 2.8 FSI (210 hp), 3.0 TFSI (290 hp supercharged), updated engines for better emissions. Improvements included revised suspension, optional adaptive dampers, and quattro with 40:60 torque split. In the US used market, post-2008 models are favored for updated tech, reliability, and often lower mileage examples imported or originally sold here.
Key Buying Tips for US Buyers
Owning an Audi A6 III in the US involves considerations like road conditions, premium unleaded fuel (91–93 AKI), and service at Audi dealers or independents. Engine reliability: 3.2 FSI often reaches 200,000+ miles but can have oil consumption (~0.5 qt/1,000 miles); 4.2 V8 timing chain service around 90,000–100,000 miles. Imported TDI diesels are durable (250,000+ miles possible) but watch for EGR/DPF issues with US fuel quality. Popular picks: 3.0 TFSI quattro for highway cruising (Los Angeles to Las Vegas), or 3.2 FSI for balanced daily driving.
Real-world fuel economy (from owner reports like Fuelly): gasoline 2.4–3.2 V6 models average 18–24 mpg combined, with highway runs up to 25–28 mpg; V8s typically 15–20 mpg. Multitronic CVT issues: chain wear (repairs $2,000–$4,000 every ~60,000 miles); Tiptronic generally more robust. Quattro system needs fluid changes (~every 40,000 miles). Parts availability is solid via aftermarket and online (RockAuto, etc.), though OEM can be pricey (air suspension strut ~$800–$1,500). When shopping used, check CARFAX for accidents/mileage, underbody rust (especially in salt states), service history, and air suspension leaks.
Conclusion
On the US used market, the sweet spot is often a post-facelift 3.0 TFSI quattro with Tiptronic — great balance of power, all-weather capability, and efficiency (real-world ~20–24 mpg combined). Approximate market prices for decent examples range $10,000–$18,000 depending on mileage and condition (higher for low-mile S6/RS6). For tighter budgets, a 3.2 FSI or 2.0 TFSI offers good value, though watch the Multitronic. Skip high-mileage V10s unless you want the thrill and can handle fuel costs. Overall, the **Audi A6 III technical specs** make it a versatile, rewarding luxury sedan — just prioritize well-maintained, post-2008 examples with transparent history.
