Audi A6 hybrid review

Audi was a latecomer to the large plug-in hybrid executive-car game, with the BMW 530e, Mercedes E 300 e and Volvo S90 Recharge already well established by the time this petrol-electric A6 TFSI e turned up in 2020 – two years after the current generation of the A6 model had been introduced in petrol and diesel forms. All these cars exist primarily to serve the company-car market, with their low CO2 emissions and potential for driving on electric power alone ensuring low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) rates.

The A6 plug-in gets a powertrain Audi calls '50 TFSI e' under the bonnet. This is made up of a familiar 2.0-litre petrol engine working in conjunction with an electric motor. Power for the latter comes from a 17.1 kWh battery, which was upgraded from 14.1kWh in early 2021. Total system output is 295bhp, while Audi claims up to 43 miles of pure-electric range is possible with that larger-than-before battery.

As we mentioned above, company-car users will be most interested in CO2 figures and Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) ratings, so it's good news that with emissions as low as 27g/km, the car easily qualifies for the 12% BiK bracket – the same as occupied by the majority of its rivals.

Fuel-economy claims are impressive, as is the norm in this class. That's because the official figures rely heavily on electric running with fully charged batteries – so you have to be sure to keep yours topped up to get close to the official numbers of 217 to 235mpg. However, if you regularly travel shorter distances within the A6's electric range, there's scope to avoid using any fuel – perfect for commuting or trips to the shop.

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The A6's closest rivals from Mercedes and BMW are both decent to drive, so it's encouraging that it manages to keep pace in this department. It's a refined and smooth car with a purely petrol or diesel engine fitted, so things are particularly refined when driving on electric power alone. The usual trio of drive modes allow you to make best use of the battery's charge, and when in Auto, the car does a good job of keeping the petrol engine out of the equation unless you push quite hard with your right foot. It's not the most fun from behind the wheel, but it's as effortless and confidence-inspiring as a large Audi should be.

The main difference between the TFSI e and its mild-hybrid counterparts is that there's more weight on board: the car's suspension has had to be adjusted to suit. This means a slightly less supple ride, which – while not exactly uncomfortable – will be noticeable if you've spent time in another A6. Everything you could want from an Audi is present and correct, however: sharp, sophisticated styling, an immaculately built interior and strong infotainment that uses a pair of touchscreens and a third driver's display behind the steering wheel. Equipment is generally good across the range, but it pays to make sure you're getting everything you need on lower-spec models – Sport does without power-adjustable seats, for example.

While it does feel that Audi is late to the party, the A6 TFSI e is a solid contender and a good alternative to its more established rivals. However, the BMW 5 Series is better to drive and the Mercedes E-Class feels a little plusher. There's not much to separate them on running costs, however – especially for company-car users. For a more in-depth look at the Audi A6 TFSI e, check out the rest of our detailed review...