The Audi A6, squeezed a bit at times in the luxury car market and sometimes even in its own upper-class family, takes a step or two toward breaking out and forging more space for itself with its 2013 edition. In the past it’s been less a case of reviewers raising issues with the A6 and more that other impressive vehicles, Audi’s A4 and A7 among them, suck up much of the available air and attention.

The 2013 Audi A6 aims to adjust the equation and accomplishes that in part by starting at the beginning and beefing up its base trim. Among the factors holding the Audi A6 2.0T back, some reviewers feel, has been that the more powerful and top-of-the-line Audi A6 3.0T received perhaps more than its share of the performance frills.

For the first time, the base version of the 2013 Audi A6 Premium is available with the manufacturer’s popular Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Previously, buyers had to step up to the trims featuring the 3.0-liter engine to get AWD. In addition, buyers of the 2013 Audi A6 2.0T can now opt for an 8-speed automatic transmission, a major plus, say the experts who are not enamored of the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that still comes standard in the base version.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine still standard in the base trim, good for 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, may not pack enough punch for some buyers, but does boast a major selling point: With the CVT and FWD, the setup rates at 25 mpg city and an eye-opening 33 mpg highway.

The 2013 Audi A6 3.0T with its supercharged V6 that gets 310 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque at 19 mpg city/28 highway and its new stop/start technology will surely remain the A6 of choice for many, but the upgrades available for the 2.0T models have leveled the playing field at least a bit. Both Audi engine choices have turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI), a system that combines supercharging with direct fuel injection for the purpose of greater power output, better performance and lower fuel consumption.

Bottom line, Audi continues to crank out fine models that continue to keep the pressure on the luxury products offered up by the likes of BMW and Mercedes-Benz right across the board, in performance, looks and value.

The 4-door 2013 Audi A6 seats 5 and, to be sure, has its fans while it fights to hold its ground both in the market overall and in the larger Audi picture.

Reviewers generally like the way the 2013 Audi A6 rides and handles, thanks in part to electromechanical steering and Audi’s Select Drive system. The vehicle’s cabin, which draws comparisons to the well-regarded interior of the Audi A7, scores high marks for spaciousness, comfort and quality of materials, amongst other aspects. Technological upgrades in recent years, including to the A6’s navigation system, have impressed the experts, too.

Three-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, a power sunroof, 17-inch aluminum wheels, satellite radio and an Audi Music Interface come standard in the 2013 Audi A6. A Premium Plus package, available for all models, includes Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, HD radio and Audi Connect with internet access and a navigation system.

The A6 has scored well in crash tests and features electronic stability and traction control systems, 4-wheel antilock brakes with brake assist, anti-whiplash front head restraint and a full array of airbags. Audi’s pre-sense collision mitigation system comes standard on all models, and front/rear parking sensors, a blind-spot monitor and adaptive cruise control are available.