Like other German luxury automakers, Audi markets a range of sedans in varying sizes. The latest A6 sedan splits the difference between the smaller A4 and larger A8 sedans. While the A6 is competitive in size with the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, it offers slightly less interior room than mainstream mid-sized sedans like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. For a luxury sedan, the A6 represents a healthy blend of size, luxury, and performance. Powertrain choices in 2012 include a 211-bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a 310-bhp 3.0l supercharged V6. Four-cylinder models are front-wheel-drive with a CVT transmission, whereas the V6 models include quattro all-wheel-drive. Like most Audi models, the A6 is offered in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trim levels. The base Premium model is well equipped, with the higher trim levels adding features like HID headlamps, four-zone climate control, and larger wheels/tires.

The A6 is reworked for the 2012 model year. Similar in size to the prior model, the 2012 has a longer wheelbase and wider track, but only changes slightly in overall size. The styling is new, but the A6 retains several design cues evolving the historical A6 design. Powertrain choices in 2012 include a 211-bhp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a 310-bhp 3.0l supercharged V6. Four-cylinder models are front-wheel-drive with a CVT transmission, whereas the V6 models include quattro all-wheel-drive. The S6 is absent from the 2012 lineup, but returns in 2013.