A6 2.7 TDI or BMW 525d?

[MidlandDan84]

Dear All,

I'm due to get rid of my E90 320d in the in March. The E90 has been pretty much faultless, however I am due to be a dad in May and the amount of things piling up in the nursery that will need transporting is ever increasing.

I've been looking at a larger saloon, either a BMW 525d or A6 2.7 TDI. In a perfect world I would go for a 530d or A6 3.0 litre diesel but having looked into insurance I cant quite justify the extra to my accountant (the wife).

I have a budget of around 16K, will ideally keep the car for 3 years (25k a year). All I want is something reasonably quick, reasonably comfortable and with a decent amount of cabin and boot space.

I know neither car will be electrifying but I've found the 320d to be fine for most situations.

The multitronic box in the Audi is best avoided, I have been researching the issues.

So in conclusion, I've narrowed it down to the 5 Series or the A6, now looking for the PH views on both? things to check / avoid??

Thanks

[uncinquesei]

I've no experience of the BMW but the 2.7TDi although less powerful than the 3.0 is much sweeter. The multi gets a bad rep but is pleasant enough once you get used to it. ie put your foot down when lights are amber and you might be moving by green the A6 is huge inside, loads of luggage space and very comfortable. S Line too hard but the bigger wheels suit it. Sat nav was standard on the 2.0TDi NOT the 2.7 so there will be plenty out there just with boggo mmi (single cd and red screen) I am assuming pre facelift spec.

[MidlandDan84]

Im wondering if the A6 2.0 TDI 170 is worth a look or not? I know the 2.7TDI isnt quick, but the 6-cylinder is smoother.

Either car will have to cope with a decent mileage, longevity and reliability would be important.

[blueg33]

I had a a 2005 525d and now have a 2007 3.0 A6. Quattro, both bought from new.

In all honesty the A6 is a nicer place to sit, driving position is better and cabin feels mor luxurious and airy.

BMW had better handling, and seemed to go down a size when pushing on on B roads but was less surefooted in the wet.

For everyday use and work use I would have the A6 and in fact I will keep it for 7 years rather than the originally planned 3 years. I was glad to get rid of the BMW after 2 years.

BMW had more niggles in its first year of life although the Audi hasn't been without niggles either. Audi feels better made and dash etc is creak free whereas the BMW creaked a bit.

If I wanted to have fun I would go for the BMW, for a daily motorway and A road car the A6 wins hands down.

[MidlandDan84]

Hmmm im still swinging towards the 5 Series, although the A6's are cheaper...

[Wills2]

I had the 2.7 in an Allroad and for a diesel it's very smooth, lacking in outright poke but a lovely engine as diesels go.