2015 Audi A6 Matrix 35 TDI review, test drive

Should I buy one?

It is a little disappointing that Audi decided to launch the A6 Matrix with just one variant. It’s not even the fact that the option of more power would have been welcome, or maybe petrol refinement, or even Quattro AWD, it’s the fact that you have no choice at all. Perhaps some buyers don’t want Matrix LED headlamps or adaptive suspension, and would have liked to pay less as a result. Or perhaps some would have willingly paid more for a 3.0-litre V6 diesel (not sure what they’d call it in Audi speak) or a Bang & Olufsen sound system, like you could get in the previous car. We can just hope that Audi introduces more variants in the future.

However, look at how the A6 Matrix 35 TDI is specced and you’ll agree it’s clear Audi has done its homework on the Indian customer. The four-cylinder diesel is the most popular engine, and with the added power has come better efficiency too. The new dual-clutch gearbox is better in every way than the CVT, the added connectivity and safety features are just what people want these days. The adaptive air suspension delivers superb ride quality, and whether you find them gimmicky or bleeding cool, you have to hand it to Audi for bringing its latest headlamp tech to a more mainstream segment. At Rs 49.5 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) with all these goodies packed in, the A6 Matrix does come across as really good value too, and for what is already one of our favourite cars in the class, that just makes it even more enticing.

GAVIN D’SOUZA