Audi car finance

Following a resounding debut at Company Car in Action, the success of Audi's new A6 would seem to be assured. Nothing--not even the torrential rain--could dampen people's enthusiasm to get behind the wheel of the "most sporting saloon" in the segment. Every morning there was a sizeable queue of visitors waiting to book a test drive and the stand was empty of cars for most of the show.

We took the opportunity to quiz some drivers about their reactions to the car and found that they were unanimous in their praise. These who had driven the 3.0 TDI quattro models at the show seemed overwhelmed by the capabilities of this new engine.

Jon Baggott, HR Director, of the Serve Group said, "This is excellent, absolutely superb. It drives beautifully and I can't believe it's a diesel--it's out of this world."

His sentiments were backed up by Steve Skinner, finance director of Apollo Fire Detectors, who stepped out of the diesel shaking his head in disbelief at how good it was. He explained: "it's fabulous. I have to keep reminding myself it's a diesel. The engine is so refined you can hardly hear it and yet I looked down at the MMI and noticed I was getting 40mpg at one point which was unbelievable."

Thanks to an official figure of 33.2mpg on the combined cycle, the excellent fuel consumption should please drivers as well as fleet managers.

Current Audi drivers also seemed impressed with the new diesel. Steven Fowell, a director of The Brampton Group, said: "I drive a 2.5 TDI allroader and was interested to get behind the wheel of this. It's definitely more powerful than my engine and performs well."

The 3.2 FSI quattro model was also available to test and went down rather well. Michael Cole, managing director of Prime Light, came back highly impressed after a spin round the track. "This is a huge step in the right direction. I liked the general feel of the car--it was sporty yet comfortable and seemed eager. The engine was very powerful and responsive."

Drivers also commented favourably on the revised styling, which debuts the new face of Audi. Jon Baggott was full of praise: "The new front end is very interesting and very attractive. This is an evolution of the previous model that still looks like an Audi but takes the brand forward. Unlike the new 5 Series, this is a more Sensible redesign."

Steven Fowell was also impressed by the new looks: "I've always liked the A6 but this is a major improvement over the old model particularly the rear. If I was buying again for myself, I would definitely get one." His sentiments were concurred by Steve Skinner who said: "It's a great car for directors."

If you missed out on test driving the A6 at CCIA, book a test drive through your dealer. Judging by the reactions of CCIA visitors, it'll be the experience of a lifetime.