2002 Audi A6 3.0 CVT

As a mid-luxury-class cruiser, Audi's stylish A6 has hardly come in for much in the way of blistering criticism. But in a market defined by such other luminaries as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the BMW 5 Series, Jaguar's S-Type and Volvo's S80, a regimen of regular improvements is pretty much part of the game. For 2002, Audi has graced it midsize four-door with the largest number of meaningful changes since the current-generation A6 rolled onto the scene in 1998. Visual, structural and motivational in nature, these upgrades promise to keep it on pace for yet another record sales year.

Face-lifted items for 2002 include the fascias, grille and side mirrors. Lamps are also revised, and HID headlights are now available.

At first glance, the exterior changes are subtle. But detail-revamping of the front/rear fascia treatments add more distinction to the package. Revised lighting elements, including bi-xenon lamps for both high and low beams, are now optional on the A6 sedans and standard issue on the Avant wagon. Also part of the mix are a bolder grille treatment, new wheel/tire combos and larger exterior rearview mirrors.


Pop the hood on the A6 and the real magic appears. Replacing the veteran 2.8-liter V-6 is an all-new, all-aluminum 30-valve/90-degree unit that's smaller and lighter—by a whopping 44 pounds—and more potent than the six it replaces.

Cosworth had a hand in developing the new 3.0-liter V-6, which produces about 10 percent more power than the 2.8-liter engine it replaces?in a lighter package, no less.

This modern marvel is based around a crankcase produced by Cosworth using a special low-pressure molding technique that reduces porosity as well as cuts mass. Bristling with high-tech touches, it also features a dual-stage intake manifold and variable timing on both the intake and exhaust valves that adds breadth and depth to the power and torque curves. Tucked into its nether regions is a balance shaft to further enhance smoothness. Even the exhaust headers feature a trick dual-wall jacketed design. This insulator helps control underhood temps while promoting quicker heat-up of the catalytic converter, thereby improving emissions and ensuring that the engine meets rigid ULEV spec.


Formal output numbers for this slick new six are equally impressive. Horsepower moves from 200 to a healthy 220 while torque pops from 207 to 221 lb.-ft. The most notable aspect of that gain is that the peak comes at just 1,950 rpm and it remains constant until 5,500 revs.