Finally got good seat time with an 2012 Audi A6 3.0T. My comparisons are:
2012 A6 3.0T Premium 18" Sport Package
2011 535i 19" Sport with DHP (1 year of ownership)

All comments start about the A6...
Drivetrain:
Wow is all I have to say. Linear, smooth power delivery in any gear. No throttle tip in. Not much exhaust tone, but not surprising. What an engine. Not as much difference between settings,Normal and Dynamic in the Audi. Much more of a difference from Normal to Sport in a BMW.
Winner: Audi

Steering:
You think the F10 series is light, you aint seen nothing. In slow to moderate city driving you could steer the Audi with a pinky. This is good if you are trying to park, bad if you want steering feel. The steering does get more weighty and gives more feedback once you start to speed up, but you still basically have no idea what the front wheels are doing. Even with EPS and RFT's the BMW still has better steering precision.
Winnner: BMW

Suspension:
The ride feedback in this car is excellent. You feel planted, but not punished (18 inch sport w/ all seasons). Ride quality is about as perfect as a sport sedan can get. You can't adjust dampers in this car like the F10, but I'm not sure I would want that in this car. (all other inputs, steering/throttle/tranny can be adjusted)
Winner: Push

Handling: The car just feels very nimble. Even with smaller all season tires, it felt easy to maneuver and light on it's feet. On a sweeping highway-on ramp at full throttle, it hugged the road, no understeer, minimal lean. With optional 19 summer tires on this car, and I can see how you can pull .90g on the skid pad.
Winner: Audi

Exterior Style:
The car is very nice in person, unmistakeably Audi. It suffers from the same conservative bland styling as the F10, but it's even worse in the Audi. There aren't any real distinctive lines on this car, the only real thing setting it apart from other Audi's are the full LED headlights. The hoffmeister kink, the kidney grills the corona headlamps are pure BMW. What are the signature design elements for Audi?
Winner: BMW

Technology: Most people will agree that technology can reach a tipping point in a car. Both these cars are packed with it. Certain things work better in the Audi (blind spot detection) and better in the BMW (side and top view cameras). Twitter Facebook, WiFi Hot Spots, um, ok, you figure this out, it's beyond me. Less is more.
Winner: No one.

Interior Quality: The Audi is a nice place to be, good steering wheel (manual adjust except for Prestige model), all the buttons are where they should be. Nice tactile feel. The only glaring omission is the center arm rest is very hard and the cup holder cover is made of thin hard, cheap plastic. (the salesman pointed this out). The rest of the car is on par with the F10.
Winner: Push

Interior Feel: This is subjective, but the Audi feels much more utilitarian. The interior of the F10 is slightly more luxurious in comparison. The plastic materials used are better quality and the seats are full leather and are are much more adjustable. Also the pop up Nav screen is annoying, it clutters the dash. (no option for auto trunk,soft close doors, sunshade).
Winner: BMW

Seats: The side bolsters and back on the A6 are leatherette to fight wear, flimsy nets on the back of the seat. The rest of the seat is leather and ventilated (works the same as F10, fan, not cooled, and optional). The seat is good, but not in the same class as the Multi-Contour seats in the F10.
Winner: BMW

Visibility:
The A6 has a cut out C pillar that limits blind spots. The cabin design is more traditional. Head up display is completely erased using Oakley Black Iridium Polarized Sunglasses ( Light Transmission: 9% Protection Index: 3)
The F10 has a strange dash configuration angle that causes some people to have a hard time finding proper driving comfort. It also creates a windshield reflection when the sun hits the dash in a certain way.
Winner: Audi

Trunk: The A6 trunk splits 60/40 for free, it's deep but narrow. You can only fit 2 golf bags in the A6 (brought clubs to the test drive) same as the F10. When you open the trunk it pops open all the way, you have to close it manually though, no option for auto close trunk.
Winner: Push

Stereo:
The Bose system in the A6 is excellent. It's about on par with the base stereo for the F10. The premium system in the F10 is better, but the B&O system blows them all away (but also is a $5900 option).
Winner: Push

Misc: The brakes squealled like a bastard during city driving. This has happened on several Audi's I have driven and seems to be a common complaint...kinda annoying. The salesman was super nice and really knew a lot about cars and has been kind enough to take me on several test drives. He was even suggesting I drive faster and more aggressive. PM me if you are in SoCal (Downtown LA) and I'll give you his contact info. he let me get triple digits in an S4.
-Ground clearance: A6 you have 7.5" on a small front air diffuser that looks like it can easily be replaced. 8.5" if you count the diffuser as a consumable. The F10 has 8" of clearance and no diffuser.

Unbiased Conclusion:
These two cars have more in common than you can imagine. However, the F10 has an additional layer of luxury and customization that the Audi lacks. The A6 has a livelier drive-train and feels more visceral. Both are excellent sport sedans, and neither excels greatly over the other. I think both cars will appeal to wide variety of buyers looking for the same thing but assigning higher values to one particular versus another. One thing is for sure. I don't think you can make a bad choice with either car.

Biased Conclusion:
I like the engine and tranny in the A6, but that's about it. The steering is way over boosted and the brakes made noise. Also the styling is not for me at all, it looks way too similar to the A4, and certain things in the cabin were a huge disappointment. The side bolster and behind the seat being vinyl with flimsy nets, isn't my style. Yes, it's a high wear area, but I want a full leather seat, let me decide if I put Lexol on the seat or not. The arm rest and cup holder area looks like it came off a VW Jetta. It's like they forgot that part and just tossed in parts from another car. The killer is the pop up nav. It is utter insanity. OK, say you put it away cause you don't want to look at it. When you throw your car in reverse, it pops up automatically, engaging the back up camera. If you're trying to attempt to get out of a parking spot and have to drive forward and back a couple times the pop up screen, does the same, goes up when you reverse, down when you engage drive, and so on. Kill me! I also generally feel the same way about RFT's. Why, for the love of god does BMW insist on using them?!?!

Finally got good seat time with an 2012 Audi A6 3.0T. My comparisons are:
2012 A6 3.0T Premium 18" Sport Package
2011 535i 19" Sport with DHP (1 year of ownership)

All comments start about the A6...
Kill me! I also generally feel the same way about RFT's. Why, for the love of god does BMW insist on using them?!?!

Thank for this very well done post. BTW, this is my first post here.

Your comment about the RTF tires reminded of one the things that I dislike about the BWM as opposed to the Audi.

The 5 series BMW (and I think this now applies to all BMW models) has no spare time. Instead they use run flats. it just does not seem right for an every day driver type car. Sooner or later the car will end up on a flat bed being taken somewhere to get another tire.

re: Seats: The side bolsters and back on the A6 are leatherette to fight wear, flimsy nets on the back of the seat. The rest of the seat is leather and ventilated (works the same as F10, fan, not cooled, and optional).

I thought ventilated seats were only with the prestige package?

re: Seats: The side bolsters and back on the A6 are leatherette to fight wear, flimsy nets on the back of the seat. The rest of the seat is leather and ventilated (works the same as F10, fan, not cooled, and optional).

I thought ventilated seats were only with the prestige package?

Correct. I didn't drive the Prestige because it was in the showroom, but I did have them turn the car on so I could listen to the radio and try the HUD and the ventilated seats. My post was long so I kinda just skipped some details. Good catch.

Ventilated seats are a little like power windows. Once you have them you kind of keep getting those options! I will say, I love having the ventilated seats in my Mercedes and really miss them when I'm driving my wife's BMW.

To be fair, ordering the cold weather package with the heated steering wheel wasn't a needed option either - but everybody who gets it says the same thing. "Don't pass it up!" - I think it just promotes option-itus.

Ventilated seats are a little like power windows. Once you have them you kind of keep getting those options! I will say, I love having the ventilated seats in my Mercedes and really miss them when I'm driving my wife's BMW.

To be fair, ordering the cold weather package with the heated steering wheel wasn't a needed option either - but everybody who gets it says the same thing. "Don't pass it up!" - I think it just promotes option-itus.

Heated steering wheel and ventilated seats seems like overkill; at first. But once you get into a bone chilling car and grab that wheel with your bare hands and have it feel like a warm blueberry muffin, you can't go back. Also, once you get into a sweltering car and get swamp taint, the light breeze against your back like a gentle trade wind blowing, adds another layer of luxury that once you get a taste for again, can't go back.

Great review!
You should hear how my BMW brakes squealed. But it's only start on year 3 of ownership. 4 to 6 visit to dealer was not help.
Don't have chance to drive A6, but drive all line of F10.
Liked only one model 550 - to my mistake - I drive 550 first. After 550 - 528 feel like made by different manufacture.
Agree on most points with you. I think body of A6 deserve more points. Steering on F10 definitely C- for me.

It was an easy choice to make last year. The E350 was a dog and the A6 was in it's final year of production, everyone knew this. Soon to be released E350 has a new DI V6 and just released C7 3.0T would make the choice much harder now. Either way, I think consumers, especially those who are enthusiasts couldn't go wrong flipping a coin between the A6 and the 535i.

2.0T A6 will meet new 528 this fall


http://www.bmwblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012-bmw-528i-02.jpg


Woodcliff Lake, NJ – July 1, 2011… BMW today announced significant enhancements for the 2012 BMW 528i Sedan, most significantly BMW’s new TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. To further enhance its efficiency in everyday driving, the 2012 BMW 528i also receives auto start/stop technology. For those who face the realities of four-season driving, the 2012 528i becomes the newest member of the 5 Series family in the US to offer BMW xDrive all-wheel drive as an option. When the 2012 model arrives in BMW showrooms this fall the most popular model in the 5 Series line-up is destined to become even more so.
BMW TwinPower 2.0-liter Four-Cylinder
Like the company’s latest TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter turbo inline-6, the new 2.0-liter engine will combine high-pressure direct-injection and BMW’s VALVETRONIC intake control (hence the name: TwinPower) with a forced induction system consisting of a single twin-scroll turbocharger. With 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it offers more power and torque than the normally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 featured in the 2011 BMW 528i.

The maximum output of 240 horsepower is achieved at 5,000 rpm, 1,500 rpm lower than in the normally-aspirated 3.0-liter inline six. The peak torque of 260 lb-ft, comes on stream at just 1,250 rpm. Not only is that 30% more torque than the aforementioned inline-6, it also peaks 1,500 rpm earlier. The vigorous power comes on early and climbs steadily all the way to redline.
The 4-cylinder engine with its all-aluminum crankcase is lighter and more compact than a 6-cylinder engine of equivalent power. The turbocharger is a twin-scroll system. The exhaust streams leaving the two pairs of cylinders are kept completely separate as they flow through the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger, taking a spiral path to the turbine wheel. This configuration results in very low exhaust back pressure at low engine rpm, and allows the energy of the exhaust gas pulses to be optimally managed and translated into powerful rotation of the turbine blades, without a delay in throttle response.
The patented BMW VALVETRONIC system with seamlessly variable intake valve lift control dispenses with the throttle valve system typical of conventional engines. Instead, combustion air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in much faster response. Pumping losses are kept to a minimum, making the engine more efficient.

The High Precision Injection direct-injection system also helps to improve efficiency. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar (2,900 psi) precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion.
The cooling effect of the injected fuel also allows for a higher compression ratio than might otherwise be possible. This results in further efficiency improvements. In the 2012 528i this innovative new engine will again be mated to BMW’s newest 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2012 528i accelerates from 0 – 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, 0.4 seconds quicker than the 2011 model and will deliver up 15 percent better fuel efficiency (final EPA results are pending).

Extra Measure of Efficiency with Engine Auto Start/Stop
In addition to BMW EfficientDynamics technologies like Brake Energy Regeneration, the 2012 BMW 528i will feature Engine Auto Start/Stop. This feature switches off the engine when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic in order to minimize idling. An ECO PRO mode, which is activated by the driving experience switch, adjusts the engine map, heating, air conditioning, and mirror/seat heating to minimize fuel consumption. The resulting increase in range is shown on a display.
The 2012 528i is the very embodiment of BMW EfficientDynamics – more powerful, more efficient and more sure-footed. The 2012 BMW 528i arrives at US BMW centers beginning this fall.

gatoman39----Great comparison review. Having been with Audi vehicles since 1987, I'm at a crossroads of sorts with the new A6 vs. the 535xi. I'm currently in an A8L (2008) and want to "downsize" back to the A6 (I've been in two A8L's over the past 7 years but with A6's/100's/5000S before that) but am having trouble with pulling the trigger for some of the reasons you listed in your review. On the other hand, Audi's quattro system has gotten me through many a poor drive through lake effect snowstorms and otherwise bad roads so well that it scares me to think of going to a different all-wheel drive vehicle (despite the fact that I know not everyone drives Audis with quattro and does just fine!). That's probably my biggest concern--giving up a known performer in bad weather. I need to drive the 535xi on snow to compare it properly.

Other issues about the A6 that bother me are:

1. Seats that aren't quite right (for me) as I want more thigh support and want the front section of the bottom seat cushion to extend like on the multi-contour seats of the 535xi. The A6's seats (either style now offered) are just not comfortable for the amount of driving I do. On the other hand the BMW's are nearly perfect in comfort and adjustment.

2. The rear end design is just not that appealing. This part of the A6 could use some tuning when they "refresh" it.

3. Wheel styles are not very good, especially the 18" 5-V-spoke-design wheels that are on the Prestige S-Line.

4. In general, too many options (like better seats, other more attractive wheels, window blinds, lane assist, dual pane side glass, etc.) are left behind in Europe (unlike with BMW). Maybe they'll become available here in future model years but, if so, why hold back?

But the killer for me right now with the 535xi is BMW's horrible decision to use RFT's on it and practically everything they sell. I want a spare in my trunk, not a storage bin under the trunk load floor. The Bimmerfest forums are on fire about this terrible decision which was made worse by what appears to be really bad Goodyear RFT's (19") on the 5-series.

One other positive note for Audi---the local service is nothing short of outstanding. No problems or issues that haven't been addressed and resolved in a reasonable amount of time. I know Audi takes a hit on service and dealerships in general but I really think this is very dealer-specific. Not that Audi shouldn't be doing something to change this overall negative perception. In my case, they have nothing that needs correcting. I'm not sure what I'd encounter going to BMW locally.

I'm going to wait another year, conduct some more test drives (in bad weather/road conditions), and hope that both Audi and BMW sort things out a little more with these two vehicles.

That's probably my biggest concern--giving up a known performer in bad weather. I need to drive the 535xi on snow to compare it properly.
The default split on the A6 is 40/60. Same for BMW. This article explains some of the differences in the new 5 vs. old 5. I think the AWD capabilities in the cars will be the same and dictated largely on tire selection.
Car & Driver 535iX (http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/11q1/2011_bmw_535i_xdrive-short_take_road_test)

Other issues about the A6 that bother me are:
1. Seats that aren't quite right (for me) as I want more thigh support and want the front section of the bottom seat cushion to extend like on the multi-contour seats of the 535xi. The A6's seats (either style now offered) are just not comfortable for the amount of driving I do. On the other hand the BMW's are nearly perfect in comfort and adjustment.
The 5 series seat moves 18 ways. You could spend a day adjusting it. I'm 6'+so the thigh extension makes a big difference for me. Also the top portion of the seat back moves independant of the lower back. Hard to explain but it pivots in the middle of your back, so you adjust it perfectly like a tailored suit.

2. The rear end design is just not that appealing. This part of the A6 could use some tuning when they "refresh" it. It's kinda bland, the biggest thing I didn't like is the diffuser is unpainted plastic. If you're not diligent about trim protection it can fade to an off black color.

3. Wheel styles are not very good, especially the 18" 5-V-spoke-design wheels that are on the Prestige S-Line. Yeah the smaller wheels aren't great. I like the 19's, I think that is probably the sweet spot. But then you will have to swap rubber come winter time, which is something I believe in anyway, but I know it's not possible for everyone.

4. In general, too many options (like better seats, other more attractive wheels, window blinds, lane assist, dual pane side glass, etc.) are left behind in Europe (unlike with BMW). Maybe they'll become available here in future model years but, if so, why hold back?
I never understood this. Do they think we wont notice? You know we have the internet right? The biggest thing for me was the lack of STronic in US models. At least make it an option.

But the killer for me right now with the 535xi is BMW's horrible decision to use RFT's on it and practically everything they sell. I want a spare in my trunk, not a storage bin under the trunk load floor. The Bimmerfest forums are on fire about this terrible decision which was made worse by what appears to be really bad Goodyear RFT's (19") on the 5-series. Yeah the sport tires on the 19" models are a disaster. The standard 18" haven't been as problematic. I'm inclined to change to regular tires and throw a mobility kit in the trunk which is what they do for M cars. But I agree there should be a spare.

One other positive note for Audi---the local service is nothing short of outstanding. No problems or issues that haven't been addressed and resolved in a reasonable amount of time. I know Audi takes a hit on service and dealerships in general but I really think this is very dealer-specific. Not that Audi shouldn't be doing something to change this overall negative perception. In my case, they have nothing that needs correcting. I'm not sure what I'd encounter going to BMW locally.
Service is dealer specific and not brand specific. I really like my guys @ Pacific BMW in Glendale, CA. Couldn't be better. It's hard to change things up when something has been working for you for so long.

I'm going to wait another year, conduct some more test drives (in bad weather/road conditions), and hope that both Audi and BMW sort things out a little more with these two vehicles.
Good idea. Especially since the Audi is just out of the gate.

Thanks for the feedback, gatoman39. You've spent some time on this and it shows.

Like you, I'm just over 6'+ and I've been spoiled by the ventilated/massaging seats in my A8L. The fact that Audi offers this type of seat on the new A6 in Europe makes me crazy. If you can't get comfortable in the seat, the rest of the car, no matter how good, is moot. The 5-series' multi-contour seat is the type of seat that should be at least offered for the A6 at this price level. I did spend some time in one and found more than one driving "sweet spots". That seat is what they were thinking of when seat position memory switches were made!

Maybe Audi doesn't think most of their target buyers would bother looking on-line at, for instance, the Audi-UK website where one can plainly see the myriad of very nice and desirable options we can't access here. I've read responses on this forum defending Audi for limiting options here but none make any real sense. If it's an economic decision of some kind, shouldn't it also make sense that BMW would also limit options? Audi wants to grow rapidly here and build a plant in the U.S. within 3 years....why limit choices if you want to grow and grow quickly?

I agree with your approach to just change out the RFT's on the 5-series, run regular tires, and toss a mobility kit in the trunk for backup. If I lease, I'd put the original RFT's back on at turn-in time. The stories with sidewall failures in RFT's on Bimmerfest scare the hell out of me. Not to mention the big $$$ for the tires and for the crazy tire/wheel insurance that BMW offers. What a racket!

the RFT issue is probably the biggest single complaint. I guess I have been lucky. I have the staggered 19" sport model with DHP but since I live in a southern location I have a RWD car with summer only tires. The $hit storm has been with the Good Year Eagle LS 2 all season in 245/40 19 size.

I'm not sure why car companies do half the things they do, but I'm sure there's some logical reason for it. Either way, seats are a big deal and the one in the A6 is nice, but the one in the 5 is regal, especially if you get it with heated,cooled and massage. It takes the car to another level of luxury.

Correct. I didn't drive the Prestige because it was in the showroom, but I did have them turn the car on so I could listen to the radio and try the HUD and the ventilated seats. My post was long so I kinda just skipped some details. Good catch.

Sure, no problem. Just wanted to make sure I wasn't misremembering what I read. I think you picked the perfect word in saying the C7 A6 intertior felt utilitarian. That's not a BAD thing, it's just not a memorable "I love that interior" type of thing. It didn't live up to the impressions I had from the photos I has seen.

I was underwhelmed with the ventilated seats in the prestige I test drove. Of the several cars with ventilated seats I've test driven, these were the least apparent to me. It's a subtle effect on all the cars I've tested, but the A6 was something less than subtle. I guess I'd say it felt "indirect," meaning there was never a point where I said, ah now I feel the cooling sensation (which I did say on the others).

I guess I'll have to try the ventilated seats again and pay more attention to it. Sometimes there's just to much to take in and assess in a first test drive.

Here's my $.02.

Engine: Prefer the 3.0T engine of Audi vs. Turbo 6 of BMW. Audi pulls harder and feels smoother. BMW feels too heavy for the 35 engine, particularly compared to my 3-series. Have owned the 335xi and driven the 535xi. Advantage Audi.

Handling: Audi seems to outcorner the BMW, both in my test drives and in reviews. Shocking, but true. BMW feels a little bit like a boat to me. Feels too big for what it is. Advantage Audi.

Steering. BMW is tighter, although still light compared to my old 3 series. Audi is just too light, feels like a Lexus. Yech. Advantage BMW.

Technology. Audi has internet, wi-fi hotspot, google maps and search. BMW has facebook and twitter. Advantage Audi.

Roominess. Audi has more legroom in the backseat. Not sure on the trunk. Advantage Audi.

All-Wheel drive. Having had both, I don't think there's a difference. On last year's Audi I would have given the advantage to BMW due to Torsen differential on the Audi being inferior to x-drive, but this year's A6 get's the Crown differential which should keep you moving forward even if both wheels on the same axel are spinning freely. Push.

Cost: Audi with Prestige, Innovation, 18" Sport and Cold Weather lists for 65,380 (includes metallic paint). BMW with all the same features (Premium I & II, Sport Package, Cold Weather Package, Night Vision, Active Cruise Control, Heads Up Display, 4-Zone Climate, Split fold-down rear seat, Convenience Package, and Metallic Paint) lists for $74,200. Advantage Audi.

Now maybe BMW is giving great deals on 5 Series right now, I know they are here because our dealer is swimming in inventory (not a great sign of demand), but it is very hard for me to come to the conclusion that the BMW is better than the Audi at all, let alone $8,820 better.

Conclusion: Advantage Audi.

Also, once you get into a sweltering car and get swamp taint, the light breeze against your back like a gentle trade wind blowing, adds another layer of luxury that once you get a taste for again, can't go back.

Sold...you had me at swamp taint. :)

Audi A6 is a very distant third to 5 series and esp E class in US sales , so VWAG can't afford to bring all the European options avail for the model here . Load it up that way you would be looking at $75-80K for a V6 sedan when the BMW and MBZ competitors have V8s here in that price range.
Audi has been trying to conquest 5 series and E class intender/repeat buyers here for decades and so far it hasn't succeeded .

( BYW , I have heard from an Audi dealer that the Panamera is hurting A8 sales here , as the A8 used to be the " sporty/alternative " German choice to the 7 series and S class for a lot of Porsche 911 and sports car enthusiasts owners . )

Audi A6 is a very distant third to 5 series and esp E class in US sales , so VWAG can't afford to bring all the European options avail for the model here . Load it up that way you would be looking at $75-80K for a V6 sedan when the BMW and MBZ competitors have V8s here in that price range.
Audi has been trying to conquest 5 series and E class intender/repeat buyers here for decades and so far it hasn't succeeded .

( BYW , I have heard from an Audi dealer that the Panamera is hurting A8 sales here , as the A8 used to be the " sporty/alternative " German choice to the 7 series and S class for a lot of Porsche 911 and sports car enthusiasts owners . )

You can load up a 535xi into the $75-80K range easily with the options and packages that BMW offers. Yes, there is overlap with the 550xi, for example, but many buyers of the V8 are going to add options that will drive up the price even further. If Audi wants "conquest" sales and isn't offering similar or same options, "conquest" sales will be just that much more difficult to obtain. Saying that VAG "can't afford" to bring all the European options here doesn't make much sense. All it takes is listing the other options as being available--if someone wants to spend the extra $$ for a feature they really want, take the damn order!! Build the car in the same European plant and ship it to the U.S. to its waiting buyer! What is that VAG "can't afford"? How about they can't afford losing customers because they can't option a vehicle like their competitors do? (Especially when they say they want to grow their U.S. business.) No one is being forced to buy window shades, for example---but why not make them available here if your production facility is already installing them for European vehicles?

Here's a "cut and paste" for you from the A8/A8L (D4) section (courtesy of BigGrasshopper) that shows the significant growth in the new D4 version over previous D3 Q1 sales going back to 2006:

"...Here is the worldwide Audi sales data from Q1 for the past 6 years for the A8/A8L. The worldwide recession in 2009/2010 killed sales, but 2011 was the best Q1 for the A8, approx. 21% higher than the second best, being Q1 2008.

Q1 2011: 7552
Q1 2010: 3419
Q1 2009: 2697
Q1 2008: 6261
Q1 2007: 5720
Q1 2006: 6074"

If the Panamera is hurting its sales, it's not showing up in these figures given the surge in sales for the D4 in Q1 2011. Some buyers might gravitate to the Panamera but it's more on par (design-wise and size-wise) with the A7 than the A8/A8L. If anything, the A7 is going to erode Panamera sales.

Audi A6 is a very distant third to 5 series and esp E class in US sales , so VWAG can't afford to bring all the European options avail for the model here . Load it up that way you would be looking at $75-80K for a V6 sedan when the BMW and MBZ competitors have V8s here in that price range.
Audi has been trying to conquest 5 series and E class intender/repeat buyers here for decades and so far it hasn't succeeded .

( BYW , I have heard from an Audi dealer that the Panamera is hurting A8 sales here , as the A8 used to be the " sporty/alternative " German choice to the 7 series and S class for a lot of Porsche 911 and sports car enthusiasts owners . )

You appear to be trying to make your argument work to your advantage by leaving out gaps like the fact the 535xi when specced the match the A6 costs significantly more and in turn makes the whole 5 series range look over priced. Now that would have been true if only the A6 was as good as the 5 but the reality is that it's a whole lot better.

Before this A6 came along the old one was the worldwide best seller of the three so one can only imagine how well the new one will do. America is a market they are yet to break but this could very well be the model to do it with I feel.

You appear to be trying to make your argument work to your advantage by leaving out gaps like the fact the 535xi when specced the match the A6 costs significantly more and in turn makes the whole 5 series range look over priced. Now that would have been true if only the A6 was as good as the 5 but the reality is that it's a whole lot better.

Before this A6 came along the old one was the worldwide best seller of the three so one can only imagine how well the new one will do. America is a market they are yet to break but this could very well be the model to do it with I feel.

Here's what Audi needs to break into the US market in a big way:

1 - The A6 has the goods as a driving machine. What it needs is better exterior styling. It's just way too bland as it is.

2 - Rethink the pop-up nav screen, While I like the idea, I'm in the very small minority. Most luxury buyers hate it and see it as cheap and gimmicky.

3 - Improve steering feel. It's almost universally been seen as too light and devoid of road feel.

4 - Improve dealership experience. Customers need to feel that they are shopping a prestige brand from the moment they walk in the door.

5 - Improve reputation for quality servicing. If and when issues come up absolutely any and all efforts must be undertaken to resolve them thoroughly and to the customers' satisfaction. This is a serious weak point for Audi at the present time and is a simple deal breaker for a lot of people.

6 - Audi needs to spend a massive amount of money of advertising. Whether fair or not, Audi just isn't seen in the same light as BMW or MB. They need to change this and the only way to do that in the eyes of the public is through advertising which higlights their Tier 1 status. Ask most casual potential car buyers to tell you the top German marques and they will all mention MB and BMW. Audi is a distant third at this point. If this is to change, Audi must do something to change it. While the inherent quality and refinement of their product is a good start, it's not enough. As Marshall McLuhan noted, "The Medium Is The Message."

1. It's just way too bland as it is. - this is personal. I really liked new C7 body, and for me looks way better then F10.

2 - Rethink the pop-up nav screen - can't comment

3 - Improve steering feel. +1000000000

4 - Improve dealership experience +1000000000. Some of them has no clue what they try to sold. No idea about Audi as company and knowledge of the cars. I only see $$|$$ in their eyes.

5 - Improve reputation for quality servicing.+1000000000

Regarding advertising - I see more Audi's in movies then BMW. Their commercial of Q5 is brilliant.

Here's what Audi needs to break into the US market in a big way:

1 - The A6 has the goods as a driving machine. What it needs is better exterior styling. It's just way too bland as it is.

The A6 styling is processive which is what Audi's designs have always been about. The very fact that across the rest of the world Audi's growth has outdid both BMW and Mercedes shows that what they are doing is right and doesn't need to change.

2 - Rethink the pop-up nav screen, While I like the idea, I'm in the very small minority. Most luxury buyers hate it and see it as cheap and gimmicky.

The A8 has used this setup for several years and in a higher price point yet it hasn't deterred customers, this first quarter is proof positive don't you think. I personally don't mind it either way.

3 - Improve steering feel. It's almost universally been seen as too light and devoid of road feel.

Here is something we do agree on but that said the 5 series isn't that much better and is by no means the best.

4 - Improve dealership experience. Customers need to feel that they are shopping a prestige brand from the moment they walk in the door.

Not being American and not having a car from one of their dealers there I can't really comment on this but I can't really believe there should be a huge difference compared to those of either BMW or Mercedes. Why should there be?

5 - Improve reputation for quality servicing. If and when issues come up absolutely any and all efforts must be undertaken to resolve them thoroughly and to the customers' satisfaction. This is a serious weak point for Audi at the present time and is a simple deal breaker for a lot of people.

Read above.

6 - Audi needs to spend a massive amount of money of advertising. Whether fair or not, Audi just isn't seen in the same light as BMW or MB. They need to change this and the only way to do that in the eyes of the public is through advertising which higlights their Tier 1 status. Ask most casual potential car buyers to tell you the top German marques and they will all mention MB and BMW. Audi is a distant third at this point. If this is to change, Audi must do something to change it. While the inherent quality and refinement of their product is a good start, it's not enough. As Marshall McLuhan noted, "The Medium Is The Message."

It's magazines which preach the gospel to the masses and if the early reactions from tests are anything to go by then it singlehanded could address Audi's position and appeal. It's only natural to want the latest, better thing out and presently that is the A6.

Shame price blinded you of it's greatest. Maybe 6 months down the line you will come to regret your 535xi purchase.

Here's what Audi needs to break into the US market in a big way:

1 - The A6 has the goods as a driving machine. What it needs is better exterior styling. It's just way too bland as it is.

2 - Rethink the pop-up nav screen, While I like the idea, I'm in the very small minority. Most luxury buyers hate it and see it as cheap and gimmicky.

3 - Improve steering feel. It's almost universally been seen as too light and devoid of road feel.

4 - Improve dealership experience. Customers need to feel that they are shopping a prestige brand from the moment they walk in the door.

5 - Improve reputation for quality servicing. If and when issues come up absolutely any and all efforts must be undertaken to resolve them thoroughly and to the customers' satisfaction. This is a serious weak point for Audi at the present time and is a simple deal breaker for a lot of people.

6 - Audi needs to spend a massive amount of money of advertising. Whether fair or not, Audi just isn't seen in the same light as BMW or MB. They need to change this and the only way to do that in the eyes of the public is through advertising which higlights their Tier 1 status. Ask most casual potential car buyers to tell you the top German marques and they will all mention MB and BMW. Audi is a distant third at this point. If this is to change, Audi must do something to change it. While the inherent quality and refinement of their product is a good start, it's not enough. As Marshall McLuhan noted, "The Medium Is The Message."

I agree with with points 1, 3, 4, and 5. But prefer the A6's look to either MB or BMW, I like the pop-up screen, and rather prefer the lower potential for status symbol status of Audi.

Success for Audi will ultimately be told by their growth in sales vs. the competition and not your or my opinion. Time will tell, but I think they're on the right tract.

The A6 styling is processive which is what Audi's designs have always been about. The very fact that across the rest of the world Audi's growth has outdid both BMW and Mercedes shows that what they are doing is right and doesn't need to change.



The A8 has used this setup for several years and in a higher price point yet it hasn't deterred customers, this first quarter is proof positive don't you think. I personally don't mind it either way.



Here is something we do agree on but that said the 5 series isn't that much better and is by no means the best.



Not being American and not having a car from one of their dealers there I can't really comment on this but I can't really believe there should be a huge difference compared to those of either BMW or Mercedes. Why should there be?



Read above.



It's magazines which preach the gospel to the masses and if the early reactions from tests are anything to go by then it singlehanded could address Audi's position and appeal. It's only natural to want the latest, better thing out and presently that is the A6.

Shame price blinded you of it's greatest. Maybe 6 months down the line you will come to regret your 535xi purchase.

It wasn't just the price issue that made me go with the 535xi Gear, it was all the other issues I have made mention of here (with the exception of the pop-up nav screen).

And when I refer to "advertising" I'm not refering to the results of the car rags comparos that are sure to be all over the place in the next 2-3 months, I'm refering to advertisements with reach into most people's homes. Think network TV, People magazine, etc. People (in America, at least) need to start seeing Audi as the equal of MB and BMW. Persently they don't. Whether that's fair or not, it's a simple fact.

It wasn't just the price issue that made me go with the 535xi Gear, it was all the other issues I have made mention of here (with the exception of the pop-up nav screen).

And when I refer to "advertising" I'm not refering to the results of the car rags comparos that are sure to be all over the place in the next 2-3 months, I'm refering to advertisements with reach into most people's homes. Think network TV, People magazine, etc. People (in America, at least) need to start seeing Audi as the equal of MB and BMW. Persently they don't. Whether that's fair or not, it's a simple fact.

I can't hope to understand what American consumer expect or want from their next car, only that I do see them to be more driven by what others think of their purchase than what they feel themselves and your comment of People (in America, at least) need to start seeing Audi as the equal of MB and BMW. Persently they don't almost proves my point. Which is why I feel the future success of the A6 against it's piers might be the turning point and give Audi the ammunition for future advertising opportunities.

Who knows?

I think the OP left out the difference between the 2 interior designs. The A6's interior design is world class while the 5 series' interior design looks like it came out of a funeral home design digest.

I think the OP left out the difference between the 2 interior designs. The A6's interior design is world class while the 5 series' interior design looks like it came out of a funeral home design digest.

http://www.e90post.com/forums/images/smilies/respekt.gif

I think most people can agree that BMW's biggest advantage over other luxury sedan is performance and BMW owners give up a lot of things to have that top notch performance, one of which is the lack of a nice interior. Now that the new A6 can match BMW 5 series's performance, I think the BMW 5 series is in big trouble. There is really no reason at all now to buy the more expensive 5 series over the A6.

I think most people can agree that BMW's biggest advantage over other luxury sedan is performance and BMW owners give up a lot of things to have that top notch performance, one of which is the lack of a nice interior. Now that the new A6 can match BMW 5 series's performance, I think the BMW 5 series is in big trouble. There is really no reason at all now to buy the more expensive 5 series over the A6.

I agree with you and just small addition to your post - same case with X3 - Q5. Only BMW enthusiast can recognize new redesigned X3 with old one - where is Q5 is new from top to bottom.

I think most people can agree that BMW's biggest advantage over other luxury sedan is performance and BMW owners give up a lot of things to have that top notch performance, one of which is the lack of a nice interior. Now that the new A6 can match BMW 5 series's performance, I think the BMW 5 series is in big trouble. There is really no reason at all now to buy the more expensive 5 series over the A6.

I am of the same opinion, PsychDoc believes that Audi still need a dramatic advertising program to educate the US public in to think Audi is BMW's equal but I believe these comparison tests will do most of this for Audi. Bottom line is you end up picking the car you like most when you get to try them but up to that point when you look for a new car your first port of call is the magazine reviews to see your best options.

Well guess what, the A6 not only looks better, has the best interior with the best material and technologies but it even drives better and produces better results in the progess. Buying the A6 is a win win scenario, no need to compromise like BMW owners do which is why over the course of this model you will see it making some serious inroads into the 5 series and E-class sales.

I am of the same opinion, PsychDoc believes that Audi still need a dramatic advertising program to educate the US public in to think Audi is BMW's equal but I believe these comparison tests will do most of this for Audi. Bottom line is you end up picking the car you like most when you get to try them but up to that point when you look for a new car your first port of call is the magazine reviews to see your best options.

Well guess what, the A6 not only looks better, has the best interior with the best material and technologies but it even drives better and produces better results in the progess. Buying the A6 is a win win scenario, no need to compromise like BMW owners do which is why over the course of this model you will see it making some serious inroads into the 5 series and E-class sales.

and BMW excuse - that "why do you need good interior - you have ultimate driving machine " - is big BS. I like how my car is handle but I would like a interior with this "handle" - world standard.
When you seat in 6,7 or 8 - you feel something, like - "I really would like to have this car" emotion.

Last year, car and driver magazine pick the C6 A6 over the new 2011 BMW 5 series in a comparo, so picking the new C7 A6 over the same 5 series is a no brainer.

Last year, car and driver magazine pick the C6 A6 over the new 2011 BMW 5 series in a comparo, so picking the new C7 A6 over the same 5 series is a no brainer.

Many view the F10 5 Series as BMW's attempt to make a more rounder luxury saloon and for C&D to pick the C6 A6 over it just shows that BMW might know how to build 'the Ultimate Driving Machine' but they definitely don't know how the make 'the Ultimate All-rounder'. Will be interest to see if the F30 3 series follows this recent trend to soften their driving appeal, if they do it might be their ultimate downfall.

Here is something we do agree on but that said the 5 series isn't that much better and is by no means the best.
Some reviews actually trashed the steering on the new 5, as definitely a big step backward. Owners have been complaining on forums. I wonder if things have improved. There is just too much that is new on that car as far as things that affect steering. An all new electric steering and completely new suspension geometry at the front may require a few years of fine tuning.

As to the interior, I didn't like the Dakota leather, and at least the all-black version of the interior seemed extremely unappealing, far worse than my usual lack of excitement about black interiors.

Some reviews actually trashed the steering on the new 5, as definitely a big step backward. Owners have been complaining on forums. I wonder if things have improved. There is just too much that is new on that car as far as things that affect steering.
I test drove the 2011 535xi a few months ago, the steering is not as good as the last gen. The handling was about the same, the ride a bit softer than the last gen. The interior material have improved but the design is almost the same as the last gen, very boring. Overall, if it was priced the same as the 2011 A6 at the time, I would have bought one, but it was close to $15000 more than a simliarly equipped 2011 A6, the 2011 A6 was deeply discounted at the time because it was the last year of that design model and the 5 series didnt have much discount as it was a new design. Dollar for dollar, the Audi A6 is a great car for the money.

I think most people can agree that BMW's biggest advantage over other luxury sedan is performance and BMW owners give up a lot of things to have that top notch performance, one of which is the lack of a nice interior. Now that the new A6 can match BMW 5 series's performance, I think the BMW 5 series is in big trouble. There is really no reason at all now to buy the more expensive 5 series over the A6.

BMW F10 actually has a very nice interior and in some ways look better than the C7 interior. Audi may be gaining on performance, but BMW is doing better in the luxury / comfort aspects.

Price wise it's a wash, because BMW has far better lease rates, and most of the buyers in this segment lease. Add BMW's European Delivery, BMWCCA discount, and often the price difference is insignificant.

Audi is doing well globally, but in the U.S. it's still quite behind. With the conservative design, I'm not so sure how the new A6 will fare in the U.S. - it should do much better than the previous A6, but it's a big uphill battle against the more prestigious 5 series and E class.

Some reviews actually trashed the steering on the new 5, as definitely a big step backward. Owners have been complaining on forums. I wonder if things have improved. There is just too much that is new on that car as far as things that affect steering. An all new electric steering and completely new suspension geometry at the front may require a few years of fine tuning.

As to the interior, I didn't like the Dakota leather, and at least the all-black version of the interior seemed extremely unappealing, far worse than my usual lack of excitement about black interiors.

BMW offers plenty of leather choices - more choices than Audi. BMW seats are terrific.

Can't do much about the light steering in RWD models, - but in the Xi models which are more equivalent to Audi, steering is heavier as it's hydraulic and retains the nice BMW feel.

The biggest problem with current BMWs is run flat tires, but if you live near big cities and do go to Nebraska often, you'd be OK.

BMW F10 actually has a very nice interior and in some ways look better than the C7 interior. Audi may be gaining on performance, but BMW is doing better in the luxury / comfort aspects.

Luxury is everything you see and touch and here Audi has BMW well and truly beaten.

It's interior is better than the C7 in some ways you say.

???????????
Nope sorry, still can't think of any.

Price wise it's a wash, because BMW has far better lease rates, and most of the buyers in this segment lease. Add BMW's European Delivery, BMWCCA discount, and often the price difference is insignificant.

This is something BMW do and do very well, to them the US market is of super importance and vital to their global sales though I don't know why because the discounting they offer must make the bottom line profits look dire.

Audi is doing well globally, but in the U.S. it's still quite behind. With the conservative design, I'm not so sure how the new A6 will fare in the U.S. - it should do much better than the previous A6, but it's a big uphill battle against the more prestigious 5 series and E class.

I see Mercedes as the only truly prestigious brand among the three, all BMW do is offer discounts to boost sales, their popularity isn't because of their image or status, it's because of their cheap leasing that's all.

BMW offers plenty of leather choices - more choices than Audi. BMW seats are terrific.

BMW's comfort seats are great but the rest of them are Crap with a capitol C, simply awful on long journeys are that includes their M seats. Another thing BMW leather feels cheaper for the most part though if you are willing to pay they will give you something much much better but even then it's still only on par with Audi.

Can't do much about the light steering in RWD models, - but in the Xi models which are more equivalent to Audi, steering is heavier as it's hydraulic and retains the nice BMW feel.

Though it's still attached to that awful x-drive system so what you gain in steering you lose in handling, hardly a winning scenario.

The biggest problem with current BMWs is run flat tires, but if you live near big cities and do go to Nebraska often, you'd be OK.

Now this I can agree with, I can't think of another manufacturer that has doggedly stuck with ran flats like how BMW have. It greatly limited the appeal to fit bigger OME rims.

BMW F10 actually has a very nice interior and in some ways look better than the C7 interior.

Looks are subjective, but I think most experts and reviewer agree that Audi's interior is world class and they also agree that BMW is not known for their interior.

Looks are subjective, but I think most experts and reviewer agree that Audi's interior is world class and they also agree that BMW is not known for their interior.

You keep on using the term "world class" to describe the interior like it's a catch phrase. Half the seats are made of vinyl, and the center armrest/cupholder area is hard,thin cheap plastic. It's not a Bentley, get over yourself.

You keep on using the term "world class" to describe the interior like it's a catch phrase. Half the seats are made of vinyl, and the center armrest/cupholder area is hard,thin cheap plastic. It's not a Bentley, get over yourself.

Compare to the 5 series, which still have standard vinyl seats up until the last gen, the Audi interior is pretty nice. For the money, the only other interior in this price range that is comparable is Lexus.
Why would you compare a $50000 Audi to a quarter million dollar Bentley, dont be stupid.
I understand you are a BMW guy, and you paid extra just to buy a car that is suppose to be the Ultimate driving machine and I do understand why you are being so defensive about your 5 series since it is no long the Ultimate driving machine and you basiclly paid more for a car that offers less. Knowing BMW, they are not going to let Audi one up on them, I am sure they are busy right now trying to improve the 5 series. Audi even got BMW to drop their prices, I think BMW knows that they are over priced. In the end, this competition is a win win situation for the consumers.

Compare to the 5 series, which still have standard vinyl seats up until the last gen, the Audi interior is pretty nice. For the money, the only other interior in this price range that is comparable is Lexus.
Why would you compare a $50000 Audi to a quarter million dollat Bentley, dont be stupid.

It's rare to find any 5 series with vinyl seats. Most 528i and all 535i or 550i are packaged this way.
Since your English isn't very good, I can see that it's hard to express yourself.
Basically, your characterization of the A6 as "world class" interior is in fact drawing parallels to a Bentely or Rolls, which actually are "world class" interiors. So please take your own advice and don't be stupid with such commentary.

It's a bummer to click into a thread looking forward to informative dialogue, new observations, and hopefully some cool pictures and instead finding childish bickering and pointless "conversation" that offers no benefit to the other site members.

Why don't those of you who want to use this forum as a platform for arguing such silly points just trade email addresses and talk directly?

Just a thought...

It's rare to find any 5 series with vinyl seats. Most 528i and all 535i or 550i are packaged this way.
Since your English isn't very good, I can see that it's hard to express yourself.
Basically, your characterization of the A6 as "world class" interior is in fact drawing parallels to a Bentely or Rolls, which actually are "world class" interiors. So please take your own advice and don't be stupid with such commentary.
Hey Mr. English literature, its spell Bentley, not Bentely. My point was the 5 series used to have standard vinyl seats, I did not say that it was easy to find one on the showroom floor. One have to compare quality within a certain class. The Range Rover and Jaguar have been said to have world class interior as well, but they still don't measure up to Rolls and Bentley.

Just pass by and want to drop a few comments about the Steering of the recent generations of Audi as a whole. I used to be an Audi guy since the B5 A4 and moved on to the C6 A6 later. Last year I decided to switch camp and picked the F10 535 for 1 single reason,I dared to say. Its the steering feel or the lack of it in the C6 that drove me away and decided not to wait for the new A6. In terms of the steering, the C6 was Lexus-light at parking speed and had absolutely no feedback. It did tighten up a bit at high way speed but the way the steering weighed up was very artificial. On the contrary the F10 steering system though is completely electronic was nicely weighed(in Normal mode still not as heavy as the B5 A4 though) c/o the way-overboosted servotronic steering in the current generation of A6 A4 A5...

re: In terms of the steering, the C6 was Lexus-light at parking speed and had absolutely no feedback...the way the steering weighed up was very artificial.

I honestly don't understand these types of comments about steering. Reading these kinds of comments literally would imply you couldn't keep the car in its lane, hit curbs on every corner, hit other cars when you tried to park, and couldn't center the car in the parking space.

I'm certain that wasn't the case, so can someone give some tangible words, rather than speaking in conceptual jargon that seems at least slightly exaggerated, what "the great steering wars" are all about? I've apparently never experienced steering nirvana, because aside from just noting the steering movement effort varies across cars, I've never seen that translate into inability to place a car where I want to, or for that matter, a reason to favor or disfavor a car.

PS is the steering in race-winning Audi's different? (in other words, does Audi choose a different steering system for racing than it does for passenger cars?)

gatoman39 and The G Man,

I ask both of you politely, please phrase your posts in they way, that no one feel your posts is a personal attack on other members of this forum. http://www.yahweh.com/images/prophetic-word/9_10-2010/LastWarning.jpg

re: In terms of the steering, the C6 was Lexus-light at parking speed and had absolutely no feedback...the way the steering weighed up was very artificial.

I honestly don't understand these types of comments about steering. Reading these kinds of comments literally would imply you couldn't keep the car in its lane, hit curbs on every corner, hit other cars when you tried to park, and couldn't center the car in the parking space.



I couldn't agree more with your response. Why would anybody care if one car has more steering feedback at parking lot speed than another. Are we trying to drift into a parking space? I find it easier for me to park my car with light steering at parking lot speed and when the A6 speeds up to highway speed, the steering is nicely weighted and very precise. While I find the F10's steering has a bit more feedback at high speed, its very close. The E60's steering was much better than the F10's, but it's just a matter of time before BMW had to convert to electric steering.

I couldn't agree more with your response. Why would anybody care if one car has more steering feedback at parking lot speed than another. Are we trying to drift into a parking space? I find it easier for me to park my car with light steering at parking lot speed and when the A6 speeds up to highway speed, the steering is nicely weighted and very precise. While I find the F10's steering has a bit more feedback at high speed, its very close. The E60's steering was much better than the F10's, but it's just a matter of time before BMW had to convert to electric steering.

Bingo, a high performance sports coupe which might likely end up on the track from time to time then I could understand it's importance but not on a big luxury saloon. Precision is all that is truly required and in this the C7 A6 is spot on, as is it's weight either at walking pace or belting down the motorway.

Guys, I'm all for differences of opinion, that's what makes the world go around. But I draw the line when personal insults start flowing. Please refrain from personal attacks. This will be the first and last warning on this topic.

Any questions, don't hesitate to contact me directly. Thanks!

I couldn't agree more with your response. Why would anybody care if one car has more steering feedback at parking lot speed than another. ...

Apart from the feedback at highway speed, I do need the feedback/resistance from the steering at slow speed to remind me how much I've make a turn at parking esp so when I found myself parking into a rather tight space. In most other cars, the more you turn the steering wheel away from the dead-center the more resistance you feel from the wheel. It can be feather light but the steering should weigh up nicely to how much one turn the steering wheel. But for the C6 A6, at parking speed the steering all loosened up, no resistance from the wheel at dead-center and equally no resistance after I made a half-circle turn of the wheel. Took it to the dealer and as usual it was told to be normal.. The fact that neither my 99 B5 A4 or any other car I happened to have driven didn't have such problem with the steering suggested to me Audi has screwed up the steering system by overboosting it. This was further confirmed by a test drive of the B8 A4 before I switch to the BMW F10.

Another problem with the steering is very weak self-centering after a slow 90 degree turn in the city. With the way they overboosted the steering assistance, one would expect the car would nicely self center after making a slow turn around the corner...but strange enough at that speed, the self centering is very very weak and I always found myself making correction to the steering after such turns in the city...very tiring indeed

Apart from the feedback at highway speed, I do need the feedback/resistance from the steering at slow speed to remind me how much I've make a turn at parking esp so when I found myself parking into a rather tight space. In most other cars, the more you turn the steering wheel away from the dead-center the more resistance you feel from the wheel. It can be feather light but the steering should weigh up nicely to how much one turn the steering wheel. But for the C6 A6, at parking speed the steering all loosened up, no resistance from the wheel at dead-center and equally no resistance after I made a half-circle turn of the wheel. Took it to the dealer and as usual it was told to be normal.. The fact that neither my 99 B5 A4 or any other car I happened to have driven didn't have such problem with the steering suggested to me Audi has screwed up the steering system by overboosting it. This was further confirmed by a test drive of the B8 A4 before I switch to the BMW F10.

Another problem with the steering is very weak self-centering after a slow 90 degree turn in the city. With the way they overboosted the steering assistance, one would expect the car would nicely self center after making a slow turn around the corner...but strange enough at that speed, the self centering is very very weak and I always found myself making correction to the steering after such turns in the city...very tiring indeed

Great first post! http://s1.bimmerfest.com/forums/images/smilies/thumb.gif
Welcome to the AudiWorld!

Apart from the feedback at highway speed, I do need the feedback/resistance from the steering at slow speed to remind me how much I've make a turn at parking esp so when I found myself parking into a rather tight space.

I just don't see how a stiffer steering can help you with parking into a tight space. Big trucks are some of the hardest vehicles to park, and thats why their steering is nice and loose at low speed to help ease the effort. I find it easier to park my A6 into a tight space than my old 3 series. I can steer the A6 with one hand into a tight space but the BMW sometimes needs two hands. Overall, its much less effort parking a A6 than the BMW.

I personally prefer more steering efforts. Even during parking, light steering just feels loose and likely more prone to driver error.

I personally prefer more steering efforts. Even during parking, light steering just feels loose and likely more prone to driver error.

Ever been a forklift driver, it's a job that requires pin-point precision and yet it's steering it very light. I'm of the opinion that at very slow speeds the steering needs to be light, otherwise you don't have a delicate enough touch to be precise.

Now at speed I want my steering's resistance to greatly increase because small adjustments at speed can have a more noticeable effect on the car's direction. It's one of the reasons why some steering systems have varible ratios that relating to speed.

Ever been a forklift driver, it's a job that requires pin-point precision and yet it's steering it very light. I'm of the opinion that at very slow speeds the steering needs to be light, otherwise you don't have a delicate enough touch to be precise.

Now at speed I want my steering's resistance to greatly increase because small adjustments at speed can have a more noticeable effect on the car's direction. It's one of the reasons why some steering systems have varible ratios that relating to speed.

Precisely, thats why modifed drag racers have unpowered or underpowered steering that is heavy and imprecise at low speeds.

BMW's active steering does that but evidently it's not that popular and it's expensive. Past BMWs all have servotronic steering that does provide more assist at slower speed. It's a matter of how much assist, and largely a personal preference.