2002 Audi A6 3.0 CVT

Suitably complementing this new 3.0-liter motivator is an equally new transmission. In place of the 5-speed Tiptronic that remains standard in Quattro models—albeit with a new, more aggressive "Sport" mode—Audi will fit front-drive A6 3.0 variants with its new Multitronic continuously variable shifter. Designed in-house and covered by no less than 27 patents, it's the first mass-produced CVT to be capable of handling an engine of this size and strength. With nearly 4 million development miles under its unique link-plate chain belt, this "stepless" transmission will someday completely replace the conventional Tiptronic in all Audi lines.


By employing special software, the Multitronic displays less of the initial "run-up" evidenced by most other current CVTs during full-throttle accelerations, yet still manages to exact maximum performance from the new six. For those who still want the feel of a traditional box, it also incorporates a Tiptronic feature that allows it to instantly select—and hold—the equivalent of five conventional ratios. According to Audi, the Multitronic box is as quick as a manual and lighter than an equivalent automatic, thanks in part to its magnesium case and the substitution of a small, 2-stage wet-plate clutch in place of the conventional torque converter. While there's still a touch of classic Audi off-the-line bog, the factory pegs 0-60 mph timing for a front-drive A6 3.0 at a brisk 7.1 seconds.

Audi's Multitronic continuously variable transmission is the first mass-production unit of its kind to be mated to a powerplant of the 3.0-liter V-6's stature.

To maximize benefits from these powertrain upgrades, the latest A6 also enjoys significant structural enhancements that add both stiffness and an additional measure of safety to the basic package. Tweaks to the multi-link front/torsion-beam rear suspension include new front uprights that cut 11 pounds of unsprung weight out of the mix and revised spring/shock rates that are equivalent to those of the previous-generation A6 Sport package. While the 205/55HR16 tires carry over, improved power-steering feel, a tandem booster on its already-potent 4-wheel ABS disc brakes and a more performance-oriented ESP stability system that now incorporates a Brake Assist feature further augment the 2002 mix.


As might be expected, these revisions make what was already a very solid-handling piece even nicer. Drive the latest A6 through even the most demanding twisties and you quickly fall into a confident rhythm as it tracks cleanly and precisely to an impressively high limit. While aggressive approaches to tighter corners result in a predictable push, judicious throttle modulation will help bring its nose back into a proper line.

Ergonomics have been refined, and brushed-aluminum trim now stylizes the A6's interior.

Audi also revised and refined the A6's passenger compartment, addressing not only visible details but making less-obvious changes, like improving door seals and moving to thicker side-window glass in an effort to further attenuate the already low levels of ambient noise. A new, more driver-friendly steering wheel now presides over an instrument cluster that carries brushed-aluminum accent trim. The headlight and power-mirror switchgear also has been redesigned for easier use.