Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Audi A6
With an overall Carivo score of 7.4/10, the 2021 Audi A6 earns a Good rating among the sedans we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.8/10, while Technology at 7.1/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional sedan — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Audi A6's reliability at 8.8/10 — among the strongest in our sedan database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. Safety is a strength too — 8.8/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
The 8.7/10 performance score reflects a chassis and powertrain that punch above the segment norm — this is a sedan you choose partly for the drive itself. Technology comes in at 7.1/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $52,325–$64,089, 24 MPG, seating 5, the Audi A6 sits in the premium tier of the sedan category. Value lands at 7.5/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: There's a case for the 2021 Audi A6, but it needs the right buyer. and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2021 Audi A6 ranks #687 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 48% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is 0.1 points below the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $52,325 starting price is about 89% above the segment's median of $27,664.
$0 — 11 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which A6 Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Audi A6 scores 7.2/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.4 — and starts roughly $5,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
✗ Where it falls short
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Audi A6 (11 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8,…
Tires 26/01/2022 · 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet,…
Air bags 10/03/2021 · 21V159000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS6 Avant, RS7, 2020-2021 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, S7, 2019-2021 A6 Sedan, and A7 vehicles. The score line on the passenger air bag may not have been manufactured correctly.
Electrical system 02/12/2020 · 20V749000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A6 Allroad, Q7, RS6 and RS7 vehicles. The electrical connector can detach from the door crash sensor in either of the front doors.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan,…
Showing 5 of 11 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Own a 2021 Audi A6 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2021 Audi A6
Is the 2021 Audi A6 reliable?
We rate the 2021 Audi A6's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 11 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi A6 have?
11 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Audi A6 worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #687 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 48% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Audi A6 cost?
The 2021 Audi A6 starts at $52,325 and ranges up to $64,089 across trims (MSRP when new). At 24 MPG, expect roughly $2,188/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which A6 years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest A6 years we've rated are 2015 (7.0/10), 2016 (7.1/10), 2018 (7.2/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (7.7/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
What problems does the 2021 Audi A6 have?
The documented issues for the 2021 Audi A6 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Seat belts, Tires, Air bags, Electrical system (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Audi A6
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Similar Sedan to Consider
Other sedans at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
