# Audi A6 — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Audi A6 on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/audi-a6

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: S Line
- **Target mileage**: 30,000–50,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £28,000

## Why this model

The Audi A6 is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a premium executive saloon that offers a comfortable ride, a high-quality interior, and a refined driving experience. It's especially good for motorway cruising, soaking up miles with ease. The 40 TDI diesel engine offers a great balance of power and fuel economy, making it a sensible choice for many.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data (February 2026), a well-maintained 2020 Audi A6 40 TDI S Line with around 30,000-50,000 miles typically sells for around £28,000. Prices can vary slightly based on specific options, condition, and dealer, but this is a solid benchmark for a good example.

## Which trim to buy

The S Line trim is often the sweet spot for the A6. It gives you a much sportier look with more aggressive bumpers, larger alloy wheels, and S Line badging, without going overboard on the running costs of the higher performance models. Inside, you get sport seats, a perforated leather steering wheel, and often a more comprehensive tech package, making it feel much more premium than the entry-level Sport trim.

## What to check before you buy

- AdBlue system faults (diesel models)
- MMI infotainment glitches
- occasional electrical gremlins
- worn suspension components on higher mileage cars
- potential for DPF issues if not driven on longer runs regularly

## Running costs

For a 40 TDI diesel, you can expect around 48-52 mpg. At current UK diesel prices (approx. £1.55/litre or £7.05/gallon), this works out to roughly 14-15 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 model is £180 per year. Insurance costs will vary significantly based on your personal circumstances, but expect it to be in the £600-£1200 range annually for a comprehensive policy, depending on your age, location, and no-claims bonus.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Diesel
- **Horsepower**: 204hp
- **Mpg**: 48-52 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: Good
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2018)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sport | £40,000 | £25,500 | LED headlights; MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch; Audi Virtual Cockpit |
| S Line | £43,000 | £28,000 | S Line exterior styling (sportier bumpers, side skirts); 19-inch alloy wheels; Sport suspension |
| Black Edition | £46,000 | £31,500 | Black styling pack (grille, window surrounds, badges); 20-inch alloy wheels (often black); Privacy glass |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £28,000 | 0% |
| 2027 | £24,920 | 11% |
| 2028 | £22,428 | 20% |
| 2029 | £20,410 | 27% |
| 2030 | £18,777 | 33% |

Buying a 3-4 year old Audi A6 like this 2020 model means you've let the first owner take the biggest hit of depreciation. Premium cars lose a lot of value in their first few years. From this point, the depreciation curve flattens out significantly, meaning you'll lose less money each year compared to buying new or nearly new. It's a great way to get a lot of car for your money.

Total value lost since new: 32.94%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [BMW 5 Series](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/bmw-5-series.md)
- [Mercedes-Benz E-Class](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/mercedes-e-class.md)
- [Volvo S90](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/volvo-s90.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.