A new Audi A6 restyling was in the works for 2005, so few changes appeared in the 2004 A6 models. A new 2.7T S-Line sedan was added to the trims, essentially a 2.7T decked out with the old Sports Package. With all that surging road power under the hood, it was only natural to add a sports suspension, 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and S-Line badging. The engine was also performance-tuned to get 265-hp, 15 more than the regular 2.7T.

Another welcome addition to the 2004 Audi A6 was standard power sunroof on all quattro models, which was basically every model except for the base front-wheel drive 3.0 sedan. In this sedan, a sport mode was added to the standard CVT continuously variable transmission. Otherwise, the 3.0, 220-hp, 2.7T, 250-hp, and 4.2, 300-hp all-wheel drive quattros remained unchanged, as did the 3.0 quattro wagon.

Audis are distinguished for their interior elegance and tons of comfort features, as well as a classic exterior styling with a rounded roof and trademark split-front grille. The car has always been designed with stability and safety in mind, and to this end, traction control, four-wheel ABS, and an electronic stability system are standard across the line. Families can ride in confidence and comfort. Performance-wise, the Audi A6 are extremely responsive behind the wheel, with nimble handling and road-hugging cornering. All these features earn high marks from drivers, particularly the quattro capabilities in the snow, the stylishness, the ample room for five inside, and the perfect combination of sports performance with high-end sophistication. Consistent bad reviews go to the poor cupholders, poor gas mileage, the useless navigation system, and numerous unpleasant repair shop experiences.