2009 Audi A6 3.0T

My love for this new 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 seems to skew my perceptions of the rest of the car. Having seen how strong it pulled the hefty A6 to 80 mph on the freeway, I was looking forward to getting the car onto some twisty two-lane roads out by my apartment. Sadly, that's where my love affair faltered. Although the engine seems tuned for a sport sedan, the chassis isn't. Audi aimed for a smooth, premium ride (which it nailed, by the way), and seemed to neglect how the car handles in corners. It's inoffensive, but it's vapid in sharp switchbacks and the steering seems quite lifeless. As with most modern Audis, the A6's cabin is a sumptuous, stylish place to spend time in, but as others have noted, it's missing a few things that should be included at this price point. Navigation, for starters, and I'd prefer an iPod or USB audio input in lieu of the six-disc CD changer tucked away in the glovebox. The new engine and stylish tweaks may help the A6 remain relevant in Audi's lineup, but I think I'd check out the new Mercedes-Benz E-class - due in dealers this summer - before cutting a check for one. Evan McCausland, Web Producer