The Audi A6 and A7 are two popular luxury vehicles from the German automaker that share many similarities but also have some key differences. Both models are part of Audi’s executive car lineup, offering high-end features, performance, and styling. However, the A7 is positioned as a more premium and stylish option compared to the A6.
The main difference between the Audi A6 and A7 lies in their body styles. The A6 is a traditional four-door sedan, while the A7 features a sleeker fastback design with a sloping roofline and a hatchback-style rear. This gives the A7 a more distinctive and sporty appearance compared to the more conservative A6. Despite their different exterior designs, both models share the same platform and many mechanical components.
| Feature | Audi A6 | Audi A7 |
|---|---|---|
| Body Style | Sedan | Sportback |
| Starting Price | Lower | Higher |
| Cargo Space | Smaller | Larger |
| Rear Headroom | More | Less |
Exterior Design and Styling
The most noticeable difference between the Audi A6 and A7 is their exterior design. The A6 follows a traditional sedan silhouette with a separate trunk, while the A7 features a distinctive fastback profile with a sloping roofline that extends to the rear of the vehicle. This gives the A7 a more dynamic and sporty appearance compared to the more conservative A6.
The A7’s unique design isn’t just for looks – it also serves a practical purpose. The fastback styling allows for a larger cargo area accessed through a hatchback-style rear opening. This provides more versatility for loading larger items compared to the A6’s conventional trunk.
Both models share similar front-end designs, featuring Audi’s signature single-frame grille and LED headlights. However, the A7 often receives slightly more aggressive styling elements, such as larger air intakes and a more pronounced rear diffuser, emphasizing its sportier character.
The A6 is available in both sedan and wagon (Avant) body styles in some markets, offering additional practicality for those who need more cargo space. The A7, on the other hand, is only available in its distinctive Sportback configuration.
Interior and Cargo Space
Inside, both the Audi A6 and A7 offer luxurious interiors with high-quality materials and advanced technology features. The dashboard layouts and overall design aesthetics are very similar between the two models, reflecting Audi’s modern interior design language.
However, there are some key differences in terms of space and practicality:
- Rear Headroom: The A6’s traditional roofline provides more headroom for rear passengers compared to the A7’s sloping roof, which can slightly reduce headspace for taller occupants.
- Cargo Capacity: The A7’s hatchback design offers a larger and more versatile cargo area. It typically provides around 535 liters of space with the rear seats up, expanding to about 1,390 liters with the seats folded down. The A6 sedan, in comparison, offers around 530 liters of trunk space, which is less accessible due to the smaller opening.
- Seating Configuration: Some A7 models are available with a four-seat configuration with individual rear seats, while the A6 typically comes with a standard five-seat layout.
Both models offer similar levels of comfort and luxury features, including options for premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced infotainment systems.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The Audi A6 and A7 share many of the same powertrain options, with slight variations depending on the market and model year. Both models are built on Audi’s MLB Evo platform and offer a range of gasoline and diesel engines, as well as hybrid powertrains in some regions.
Common engine options for both models include:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (known as 45 TFSI)
- 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 (known as 55 TFSI)
- 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 (TDI models, where available)
The A7 is often positioned as a slightly more performance-oriented model, sometimes offering more powerful engine options or receiving performance upgrades before they’re available on the A6. For example, the high-performance S7 and RS7 variants typically offer more power than their S6 and RS6 counterparts.
Both models are available with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction and handling characteristics. Transmission options typically include a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic or an eight-speed traditional automatic, depending on the engine and model year.
Technology and Features
When it comes to technology and features, the Audi A6 and A7 are very closely matched. Both models offer Audi’s latest infotainment and driver assistance systems, including:
- MMI touch response system with dual touchscreens
- Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
- Advanced driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and parking assist
- Premium audio systems from brands like Bang & Olufsen
The A7, being positioned as a more premium model, may offer some advanced features as standard that are optional on the A6. However, the overall technology packages available for both models are very similar, allowing buyers to equip their vehicles with the latest innovations regardless of which model they choose.
Pricing and Market Positioning
One of the most significant differences between the Audi A6 and A7 is their pricing and market positioning. The A7 is generally priced higher than the A6, reflecting its more exclusive status and unique design.
The A6 serves as Audi’s core executive sedan, competing directly with models like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The A7, with its distinctive styling and higher price point, is positioned as a more niche offering, appealing to buyers who want something more unique than a traditional luxury sedan.
This pricing difference can be substantial, with the A7 often starting at a price point several thousand dollars higher than a comparably equipped A6. However, the exact price difference varies depending on the specific trim levels and options chosen.
FAQs About Audi A6 vs A7
- Which is bigger, the Audi A6 or A7?
The A7 is slightly longer and wider, but the A6 offers more rear headroom due to its traditional roofline. - Does the Audi A7 have more cargo space than the A6?
Yes, the A7’s hatchback design provides more cargo space and a larger opening for loading items. - Are the engines the same in the Audi A6 and A7?
Many engine options are shared between the two models, but the A7 sometimes offers more powerful variants. - Which model is more expensive, the A6 or A7?
The Audi A7 is typically priced higher than a comparably equipped A6 due to its more exclusive positioning. - Can I get an Audi A6 or A7 with all-wheel drive?
Yes, both models are available with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system on most variants.