Audi A6 review - Practicality & boot space

The previous-generation Audi A6 was never regarded as especially accommodating inside, but the latest model promises a big step forwards. There's a good-size boot, too, although those in search of true versatility would be wise to consider the Audi A6 Avant estate or one of the brand’s myriad SUVs; the Audi Q5 or Audi Q7 especially.

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Audi A6 interior space & storage

This Audi A6 has grown very slightly compared to its predecessor, but the 7mm increase in length will only be apparent if you're accurate with a tape measure. The inside story, though, is different, and will be noticed immediately if you step out of the old car and into the new.

Compared to the previous generation, the latest Audi A6 has a 12mm longer wheelbase – that’s the distance between the front and rear axles – than before. This is claimed to contribute to a 21mm overall increase in interior length and is most apparent in the rear seats.

Audi claims 17mm more rear legroom for the latest A6 than before and a subtly lifted roofline contributes 10mm more headroom for rear-seat occupants as well. The middle passenger will have to be happy sitting astride a large transmission tunnel though. Front-seat occupants have little cause for complaint, either – there's plenty of space, lots of seat adjustment and a dashboard design that surrounds passengers without anyone feeling hemmed-in.

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Boot space

The latest Audi A6 offers 530 litres of boot space – the same as its predecessor. That matches the BMW 5 Series, but falls a little behind the 540 litres of the Mercedes E-Class. There'd be more luggage volume available if it weren't for the mild-hybrid system's underfloor-mounted batteries. 

Space takes a tumble in the plug-in hybrid version, dropping to 360 litres as a result of the large battery pack. It should still be okay for daily use but could make family holidays tricky, as it’s less space than you get in the Audi A3 hatchback.

Those who put practicality and bootspace close to the top of their wish list should look to the Audi A6 Avant estate, or to one of the maker’s SUVs, such as the Audi Q5 or Audi Q7. The engine range is almost identical across the range, with electric models like the Audi Q4 e-tron and Audi Q8 e-tron also now available.