The 2001 Audi A6 mid-size luxury sedan gets a significant kick in the pants this year with the addition of a new powertrain. The 2.8 has been boosted to a lighter 3.0-liter, 220-hp V6 engine in both the sedan and wagon. Added to that is a new CVT (continuously variable) multitronic automatic transmission, a gearless transmission designed to provide optimal performance and fuel economy. It is supposed to be more responsive than a regular automatic, and it can also mimic manual shifting like the Tiptronic. The CVT is standard in the front-wheel drive 3.0 A6 only. An optional 5-speed manual is available in the 3.0. CVT is not available in quattro models, which offer only the 5-speed Tiptronic auto-manual transmission.

As always, the wagon, 2.7T, 250-hp and 4.2, 300-hp A6s are standard with quattro all-wheel drive, while the 3.0 sedan comes standard front-wheel with the option of quattro. An S-line sports package with sports suspension and 17-inch wheels was available.

On the outside, the 2002 Audi A6 gets dual exhaust pipes and redesigned taillights and blinkers. Thicker glass and seals have been added to reduce road noise in the already quiet sedan. Inside, it is still all about elegant luxury. Even base models come with leather seating, power-adjustable seats, and wood accents. Red-lit instrument panels are supposed to provide ideal night vision. Plenty of leg and headroom and an oversized trunk complete the family car picture. A soft suspension and tight steering combine driving comfort with confidence.

The 2002 Audi A6 retains all its comfort and performance orientation from the previous year and adds a more energetic engine to improve the driving experience. There is a lot that owners love about the A6, including its roomy seating and trunk, the powerful V8 engine, the unflabbable quattro technology, the responsive steering, interior luxury, and overall feelings of safety behind the wheel. Driving comfort is supreme here. Annoyances include getting used to the initially awkward CVT, poor location of the cruise control next to the turn indicator, poor fuel economy, and flimsy cupholders.