Can you help me choose between a new Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series?

I'm stuck between my choice for a new car. I've narrowed it down to an Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series. I hated the Mercedes-Benz E-Class; it felt so cheap inside. Friends tell me that the BMW is a much more dynamic car due to being rear-wheel drive, but I'm not the kind who likes to throw my car into roundabouts and corners; I would prefer a good, solid, reliable car with attractive features. I'm getting swayed towards an A6 at the moment. Probably mostly because I'm seeing too many BMW 5 Series on the roads. Any help or opinions would be appreciated...

James Corbett (Nenagh)

Sep 2013 Filed under: choosing new car

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Expert answer

Hi James,

Well, frankly that's a good dilemma to have. Both are utterly excellent cars and you honestly won't go wrong picking either.

To compare, you're right that the BMW does feel that bit more reactive, that bit more plugged in to the road surface, but the gap between the A6 and the 5 Series is far narrower in that regard than once it was. 

You're also right that the 5 Series is becoming a touch, shall we say, common on the roads these days and while Audi is hardly struggling to shift A6s, they are perhaps a little less widely seen.

One small spanner in the works; have you tried the Jaguar XF? It does give a little away to both the Germans in terms of cabin design and space, but it's gorgeous and utterly brilliant to drive. Plus, of a Friday night, you get to turn to your significant other and utter the immortal words; "Darling, tonight, shall we take the Jaaaaaaaaag...?"

Neil Briscoe - Complete Car Adviser
@neilmbriscoe