Vehicle Type: 4-door/5-passenger sedan

Base Price: $33,750

Price As Tested: $ 41,450 (including destination)

Engine And Horsepower: 2.8- liter Dual Overhead Cam V6with 200 horsepower

Fuel Economy: 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway

Initial Impressions: One look and it is apparent that the new Audi A6 is no ordinary sedan. The curvaceous sweeping lines and glittery pearlescent paint served as a gracious invitation to open the door and slide into the luxurious cabin.

It takes a lot to be totally overwhelmed by the styling and amenities of a sedan, but the A6 seduces one with an abundance of luxurious fabrics and understated elegance. Sinking into her royal blue leather seats, your eyes catch the rich wood trim as it sweeps around the entire cabin, surrounded by the finest quality dashboard materials and highlights of titanium-colored brushed aluminum.

The center console, with wood trim and polished aluminum trim surrounding the leather-wrapped shift knob, opens to expose a pop-up phone (optional) with hands-free features. The door panels offer uniquely designed tip-out map pockets which are fully lined and completely finished. No rough plastic edges in this car!

Standard Features: Base model features, some of which are rather uncommon, include a five-speed automatic transmissionwith the Porsche-designed Tiptronic feature for those who might like to shift themselves with a flick of the wrist. The A6 also is equipped with front and side air bags for the front seat occupants, with side airbags for the backseat passengers offered as an option.

Other standard features include anti-lock brakes traction control, a fully adjustable steering column with tilt and telescopic features, and a dual climate control system. A keyless entry and anti-theft system, and an array of power features including 12-way power seats and "one-touch" up and down windows are also included, as well as the European-influenced headlight washer system.