The Audi A6->ke934 first entered the market in 1994 as a 1995 five model that would take on competitors like the BMW 5 Series->ke317 and the Mercedes E-Class.->ke373 The fourth and current generation was ushered in for 2012. For 2016, Audi->ke14 decided to give the luxury->ke505 sedan->ke142 a refresh to keep it fresh until the next-gen model is ready to hit showrooms. The facelift was rather mild, but it included revised front and rear fascia’s, Audi’s new Singleframe grille design, LED headlights, some new upholstery colors, and a 4G LTE hotspot with the MMI infotainment system. Three engine options were available, including gasoline-poured four- and six-cylinder engines, and a six-cylinder diesel for those of you who prefer oil burners.

When it comes to midsize German luxury sedans, the rivalry between BMW->ke178, Mercedes->ke187, and Audi keeps each brand honest, while at the same time, creating a demand for individuation. If BMW sells itself as the performance-oriented marque, and Mercedes is the technological powerhouse, Audi typically takes the more sensible route. Its “people’s car” roots are obvious when considering the all-wheel-drive practicality, high safety standards, and roomy interior. It’s what makes the A6 the clear choice for the well-off businessperson who's attached to the standard 2.5 children and looking for a sedan that can pull double duty as a weekday commuter and a family car.

So, let’s take a look at the 2016 Audi A6 and check out everything Audi did to keep this sedan fresh for the next few years.

Updated 04/17/2015: Audi announced prices for the 2016 A6 luxury sedan, which will arrive later this summer. Prices will range from $46,200 for the A6 Premium edition to $75,300 for the S6 Prestige version.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 Audi A6.

Exterior

Although not terribly altered over the previous model, this latest A6 comes with an updated front fascia featuring new LED headlights and Singleframe grill integrated with the bumper. The rear also features new LED taillights and reshaped exhaust tips.

Though there are images of an A6 Avant included from Audi, chances are this will remain as a Europe-only model and not make its way to the states.

True to Volkswagen->ke94 form, you’d be forgiven for confusing the 2016 model with those of previous years. We still think it looks good though, in a very German kind of way- well balanced, tight, and all business.

2016 Audi A6 - Exterior Dimensions

Interior

When it comes to upholstery, buyers get to choose from a few new color combinations, such as Flint Gray and Cedar Brown. Expect a high standard of build quality and materials throughout, from the trim to the techy infotainment system.

Inside, there’s all the connectivity you’d expect in a modern luxury sedan, like 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to eight devices, streaming Internet radio, personalized news readers, and more. Directing all this is an MMI touch display with eight-inch monitor, voice control, MMI navigation and Bluetooth integration.

There’s also an available Side Assist and Active Lane Assist that provides steering input if you try to merge into a vehicle in your blind spot. Continuing the theme of automated safety is Secondary Collision Assist that will apply the brakes if the A6 hits something in order to prevent any further damage from being done, plus an optional night vision system can be added to detect anything you can’t already see in those bright LED headlights.

Drivetrain

The 2016 A6 comes equipped with more power than before, sporting a variety of engine packages to choose from. The base 2.0-liter turbo four puts out 252 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 comes with 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. There’s also a turbo six-cylinder diesel option that boasts an economical 240 horsepower and impressive 428 pound-feet of torque. For the eco-minded, there’s an engine start-stop technology to improve mileage.

Transmissions are offered in two flavors: a seven-speed, dual-clutch S tronic, or eight-speed automatic Tiptronic gearbox. Layouts include front-wheel drive, and, of course, quattro permanent all-wheel-drive. For even further refinement, the quattro system has been enhanced with new software algorithms, providing better response and handling.

Prices

2018 Audi A6 Prices

Competition

BMW 5 Series

In terms of performance, the 5 Series is the clear victor -- at least until the rain starts to fall. However, with the possibility of all-wheel-drive coming to the 5 Series, that might change. It’ll be interesting to see how BMW competes with the new A6. Still, on a clear day, the 5 Series will suit the sporting-minded far better.

Mercedes E-Class

While Mercedes offers an optional 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system for the E-Class, the real draw of the model is its role as a rear-drive luxury cruiser. Bristling with technology, the E-Class is easy to drive and comfortable to travel; a true icon of the Mercedes lineup.

Conclusion

When flanked by the 5 Series and E-Class, the Audi appears somewhat subdued. It’s not as wild as the Merc, but it’s a great commuter that can handle less-than-ideal road conditions with ease. It’s not as powerful as the Bimmer, but it’s still quick enough to hold its own on the autobahn. The A6 is great compromise in terms of capability, performance, and practicality, and it remains well suited to the refined palate.