It has class and is comfortable. That’s my first impression of the Audi A6 Matrix.
The Audi A6 Matrix gets the suffix in its name from the segment-first Matrix LED headlamps. It’s not new, but don’t be fooled into believing that it’s just a facelifted version of the earlier A6. It has a host of new features that push the A6 Matrix into competition with the Mercedes E-class and BMW 5 series.
Undoubtedly, it is meant to be a chauffeur driven car, with a spacious front and rear legroom, and surprisingly, headroom for a car as low slung as the A6.
Exteriors:
The A6 Matrix looks a little more low slung, giving it a sportier look. The car has now a new front and rear bumper design, the adjustable Matrix LED headlamps is the USP of Audi A6, which automatically provides a stress free drive on highways and it has 19 diodes on each LED headlamp that gives an amazing high-beam light on the road without reflecting its high-beam on coming vehicles. The car also has dynamic four LED turn indicators.
The 18 inch V-designed 10 spoke alloy wheels gives it a sporty look. The boot-lid gives you enough space for your luggage, which also gives space to its spare wheel beneath its lid. One also gets a sensor controlled boot opener that will only work if you have a remote controlled key in your hand. All such features remind us of the Audi A8.
Interiors:
Changes to the A6’s cabin are subtle – some of the features of old Audi A6 have been retained while a few new ones have been added – chrome surrounds for buttons and switches, a new-look gear lever and an 8-inch infotainment system with improved voice recognition functionality for instance.
The steering is encased in Milano leather, while premium leather upholstery adds to the feeling of luxury, especially leather lovers. The front and rear cabin room is ample and an added feather in its cap. Overall, the cabin is spacious, comfortable and plush.
As soon as the engine starts, a MMI screen elegantly pops out from the dash board. Wood-touch has been surfaced on the dashboard and around the gear box, an alloy touch on the AC vents and door panels. Also, interior lights on the door panels make your ambience livelier, especially during night long drives. What adds more in your drive—the 600 watt Bose surround sound system delivers a striking sound quality with 14 loudspeakers in the car. The dashboard layout could have been better though, if it is to compete with the Mercedes E Class.
To make your car brighter during the day a slide and tilt glass sun-roof is a convenient option for you. The adaptive air suspension, four-zone climate control added to your comfort level.
A6 Matrix Engine, Transmission and drive:
The A6, as of today, is only available with a lone engine option: the 2.0-litre diesel with enhanced power and efficiency figures and a seven-speed S Tronic’ gear box. The engine purred in our hands, and we couldn’t really hear it, even when we pushed it beyond 5000 rpm. Acceleration is smooth, and the transmission, fantastic especially in the Dynamic mode. Its powerful dual clutch transmission allows you to swiftly shift the gears. During the test drive, just in 7 seconds, we reached at the speed of 100km/h. Statistics-wise it has a top speed of 232km/h and uses a sulphur free fuel. The engine provides a max output in kW 140/3800 @ 4200 rpm, with a Max torque in Nm 400/1750 @ 3000 rpm. It has built in cruise control which can be set from speeds starting at 30 to 250 km/h.
Despite the Audi A6 Matrix having a kerb weight of 2240 kg, the steering is light on the hand, and yet provides excellent control. It’s what I would call a drivers delight, with the right balance between ride comfort and handling. There is a little body roll around the bends, but the tyre grip is good and this must be experienced to be believed especially while braking and going round bends. The 75 litre capacity fuel tank is enough for long drives.
Safety-wise, the Audi has what it takes to keep its occupants safe – 8 airbags, rear camera, ABS with EBD, hill descent control and ESC (Electronic Stabilization Control).
The Audi A6 Matrix ticks all the right boxes and retails for Rs 49.5 lakh, ex-showroom, Mumbai, and at that price, it is value for money.
Specs:
In-line, 4cyl, 1958cc, 188bhp, 400Nm, 7A, 0-100kph: 8.4 seconds (claimed), top speed: 226kph, 1830kg, boot: 530 litres, Rs 49.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai), Karnataka ex-showroom price: INR 50.65 lakh, On road price: INR 64,88,313
About the Author:
Cinderella Daryani works as a special correspondent with News Karnataka. Having immense experience working with several media houses, her love for journalism, she believes, drives her to fulfill her goals. She is passionate about writing and her interest to interview celebrities, politicians and corporate personalities and others is attributed to this passion.
