quantumrace

Start my test drive of the A6 last weekend (2012 Prestige and 2013 Premium Plus) but I'd like opinions on those of you who might have owned or have insights both versions.

Options:

1). Buy a nicely equipped CPO'd 2011 Premium Plus A6 for around $40k and reap the benefit of some level of depreciation

2). Buy a CPO'd 2012 Prestige version for around $50k

3). Buy a new 2013 Premium Plus for around $54k

4). Hold out for another year or two and then secure a Used CPO 2013 Prestige Model

Currently driving a 2008 BMW 550i and the Audi definitely feels a bit more planted on the road, though the 550i is a bit more nimble. Really like the technology that comes with the 2013 Premium Plus.

I guess my question really boils down to are there things missing/lacking in the 2011 or 2012 versions that it's worth focusing on the 2013? For that matter, do you think the 2014 version is going to WOW drivers with any significant changes? Thanks.

irenesbob

Unless I am mistaken (is that possible?) the 2011 A6's are the C6 platform - very similar to the 2010's.

Dramsey

2012 or 2013, to get the benefits of the latest C7 platform.

mikem33

It depends where you live (which spec of Audi you are getting).
For US models, the big difference with the 2013 was the addition of start/stop (which includes a heavy duty starter and a different, higher capacity battery to manage start/stop) and the addition to the 360 degree view cameras if you get the innovation package. They also added the rear/side sunshades as a package, and did away with the sport package with 18" wheels. Finally, unless I'm mistaken, active lane departure prevention is new for 2013. I think that, other than that, the 2012 and 2013 are quite similar. The packaging also changed a bit (LED headlights not part of innovation for 2013). If any of these features are pluses/minuses in your book (some people hate start/stop) that might make the decision for you.

I am assuming you want the 3.0 engine; if you want the 2.0T, then 2013 added the option for quattro (and a torque converter slushbox instead of the CVT) on the 2.0. There are a few posts on this topic in the forum.

quantumrace

Thanks. Live in SF Bay Area. Definitely in the market for the 3.0 as that has gotten all the rave reviews. Don't need the innovation package. Guess it makes sense to stay with the C7 spec and all depends if the price is right on a used one. Imagine once the 2014's start to roll out, the 2012's will become increasingly priced right.

I wonder if anybody that doesn't have the LED's wishes they had them, and those that do have the LED option are happy with them. Wonder also for those with the full LED's how many times they have people flashing their high beams at them trying to indicate the LED's are too bright even without the high beams being on.

thanks.

snagitseven

IMO, the C7 is the most improved A6 over the previous series as has ever been introduced since the C5 replaced the C4 back in 1997/98. While the 3.0 engine over the US 2011 A6 is about the same, there's so much other improvement that I can't imagine anyone would even want to consider the older model.

If you scour the C7 forum, I think you'll find that there is virtually no one that regrets having optioned LED headlights - everyone who have them seems to give them high praise. Not one LED headlight post has complained about other drivers being annoyed or flashing headlights - just a lot of head-turning as they are still unique to the C7 (for now). I have never had an oncoming driver flash lights at me unless I forgot to turn off my high beams. Or from another C7 saying hello.

zandym

I was all set to get a 2011 CPO but when I test drove both, the C7 fit and finish (especially the interior), was far better that I know I would be kicking myself down the road if I settled with the older model.

I love the full LED lights! I don't think I would get the car without it as it really changes the look of the car. Same with the S-Line exterior package. Don't care much about the 3.0 and would have gotten a 2.0 if the options I wanted were available.

irenesbob

I would agree, having switched from a 2010 C6 A6 to a 2013 C7 A6 only 2 1/2 months ago. The only area where I still might give the edge to the C6 is its more classic style. The other day I was parked next to a black 2011 A6 and it actually looked longer and classier than my new Quartz Grey baby. That being said, the 2013 is perhaps a better style, but comes across as sporty as opposesed to rich or classy.