The Audi A6 Allroad quattro (4F, C6) 4.2 FSI V8, produced between March 2006 and 2008, represented the pinnacle of the C6 A6 Allroad range. Positioned as the premium offering, it combined the practicality of a station wagon (estate) with the capability of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system and a potent, naturally aspirated V8 engine. This variant aimed to deliver a luxurious and high-performing experience, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle capable of both comfortable long-distance travel and tackling challenging road conditions. It was built on the Audi’s C6 platform (4F chassis code) which was shared with the A6 sedan and Avant (wagon) models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Allroad quattro (4F,C6) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (350 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | March, 2006 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate), Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 186.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 84.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 3500 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | BVJ |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1660 l (58.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4934 mm (194.25 in.) |
| Width | 1862 mm (73.31 in.) |
| Height | 1519 mm (59.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2833 mm (111.54 in.) |
| Front track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the A6 Allroad quattro 4.2 FSI was the BVJ engine code, a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine utilized Audi’s FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) direct injection technology, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure. This improved combustion efficiency and allowed for a higher compression ratio of 12.5:1, contributing to increased power and torque. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The engine produced 350 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. Paired with this engine was a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, offering both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually select gears. The Tiptronic transmission was known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness, although it wasn’t as sporty as some dual-clutch transmissions available at the time.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2 FSI V8, combined with the Tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, provided a refined and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in approximately 6 seconds, and the car had a governed top speed of 155 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, did introduce a slight loss of power compared to the available six-speed manual transmission. The quattro system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The Allroad’s raised suspension and standard air suspension offered a comfortable ride, even on rough terrain. However, the increased weight of the V8 engine and all-wheel drive system meant that the car wasn’t as nimble as some of its lighter competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.2 FSI Allroad typically came well-equipped as standard. Features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium audio system, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and upgraded interior trim materials. The Allroad also featured unique exterior styling cues, such as flared wheel arches, stainless steel underbody protection, and roof rails. The interior typically featured wood or aluminum trim options.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 Allroad quattro featured an independent multi-link suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. The air suspension system, standard on the 4.2 FSI model, allowed for adjustable ride height, providing increased ground clearance for off-road driving. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A6 Allroad quattro 4.2 FSI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 21 US mpg. Compared to the 3.2 FSI V6 Allroad, the 4.2 FSI offered significantly more power and performance, but at a higher price point and with increased running costs. The 3.0 TDI diesel Allroad offered comparable torque and significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for those prioritizing efficiency.
Legacy
The BVJ 4.2 FSI V8 engine, while robust, is known to require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding carbon buildup on the intake valves. Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality fuel are crucial for long-term reliability. The Tiptronic transmission, while generally reliable, can be susceptible to wear and tear over time. Today, the A6 Allroad quattro 4.2 FSI represents a desirable and capable used car, offering a unique combination of luxury, performance, and practicality. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and rewarding driving experience.
