2016 Audi A6 hides excellent driving dynamics under traditional sedan design (pictures)

The A6 is Audi's second largest sedan, under the A8, and received a generational update in 2011. Although considered a refresh, the 2016 model gains significant cabin electronics upgrades and more horsepower.

Powering the A6 in 3.0T trim is a supercharged 3-liter V-6 engine, good for 333 horsepower, and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The A6's sedan format and 16-feet, 2-inch length means a roomy cabin for five passengers.

LED headlights come as part of the Prestige trim.

The A6 employs conventional yet modern sedan style.

Quattro all-wheel drive comes standard on the 3.0T trim A6, giving the car exceptional handling and improved capability in bad weather.

Although Audi only offers the A6 with a fixed suspension, it is very well-tuned, striking an excellent compromise between performance and comfort.

The A6 hits the luxury or premium market, with power adjustable leather-covered front seats.

The satin finish on wood trim in the cabin makes for a natural appearance and feel.

Rear-seat passengers enjoy individual climate control in the Prestige trim A6.

The 8-inch LCD in the A6 actually looks a little small when compared to similar sedans from competitors, but Audi upgraded some of its hardware for the 2016 model year, giving the A6 a faster Nvidia processor and a 4G data connection.

As typical with Audi, the steering wheel has a light feel but delivers precise response.

The instrument cluster shows a small version of the navigation system maps, if selected by the driver.

The head-up display projects speed and limited turn guidance on the windshield.

The MMI controller includes a dial, buttons and a touchpad.

The main menu screen shows function icons on an elliptical menu.

The navigation system benefits from Google Earth imagery, streamed in over the car's data connection.

The destination options include a new freeform search field for onboard address and business databases, making for quick search results.

The 4G data connection powers information sources including traffic, fuel prices, weather forecasts and local points-of-interest information.

Audi's new parking feature shows capacity of public garages, for those capable of broadcasting that information.

The hands-free phone system pairs with your phone, and includes typical directory and calling features.

Audio sources include an onboard hard drive, Bluetooth streaming, HD and satellite radio, and recently adopted USB ports for drives and iOS devices.

The music library for devices plugged into the USB ports shows album, artist and song categories on an elliptical menu. For iOS devices, you can also view a music library interface over a Bluetooth connection, although the format is different.

HD radio includes multiple channels from individual stations.

For many years, Audi relied on its own proprietary Audi Music Interface, requiring adapter cables, but now it has adopted USB ports.

Audi offers a Bose audio system as an upgrade, but buyers can opt for an even better Bang and Olufsen audio system.

Audi's DriveSelect feature tunes the car for Comfort or Dynamic driving modes, although they only affect steering and throttle response.

The rear-view camera includes trajectory lines and distance indication.

The 2016 Audi A6 performs remarkably well and offers innovative connected cabin electronics, however it is due for a generational update in a couple of years.