2019 Audi A6 vs 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2019 Audi A6 was a testament to the brand's commitment to luxury and style, drawing inspiration from the Prologue Concept while maintaining its distinct Audi identity. It featured a wider single-frame grille, subtle fender swells reminiscent of the original Audi Quattro, and innovative LED lighting with animated sequences that enhanced its nighttime presence. The design was further complemented by a short front overhang, a rakish roofline, and horizontal themes for the taillights and exhaust outlets, ensuring the A6 retained its classic lineage. The S-line styling details added a sporty touch, and the interior was a showcase of high-quality materials and sophisticated design, though it had some minor drawbacks like cabin creaks and awkward plastic placements.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was a striking departure from its predecessors, boasting a sleek, fastback profile and a tailored body that turned heads even among non-enthusiasts. The design was a testament to Hyundai's evolution, with influences from design chief Peter Schreyer and ex-Bentley chief Luc Donckerwolfe. The Sonata Hybrid featured the coolest LED running lights, a wide grille, and a low stance, with aerodynamic elements like a black ducktail spoiler. Inside, it offered a better-made and better-designed interior than many luxury brands, with big screens, ambient lighting, and luxury-grade materials. The transformation from previous models was nothing short of revolutionary.

The 2019 Audi A6 delivered a sublime driving experience, powered by a creamy smooth turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This allowed the A6 to accelerate to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. Paired with a 7-speed S tronic automated manual transmission and Quattro Ultra all-wheel-drive system, the A6 offered robust acceleration and impressive handling. The mild hybrid system with a 48-volt electrical system contributed to fuel efficiency, though real-world mileage was slightly below EPA estimates. The adaptive damping suspension ensured a comfortable ride even with 21-inch wheels, and the steering and brakes complemented the drivetrain's performance, though the brake pedal felt a bit numb in urban settings.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine with a 51-hp electric motor, delivering a total of 192 hp. While not as powerful as the A6, the Sonata Hybrid felt light and agile on its 17-inch tires. The six-speed automatic transmission provided more traditional acceleration compared to CVTs, though it occasionally hesitated. The Sonata Hybrid excelled in providing a silent interior, plush ride, and competent chassis. The Blue trim offered exceptional fuel efficiency, achieving up to 52 mpg combined, while the SEL and Limited trims provided more features with slightly lower efficiency. The Sonata Hybrid's powertrain was smooth and efficient, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.

The 2019 Audi A6 offered a tailored interior with 18-way multi-contour front seats and massage programs, though space was somewhat limited. The rear seats were comfortable but confined, with features like 4-zone automatic climate control and heated seats. Interior storage was minimal, and the trunk, housing the 48-volt battery, offered just 13.7 cubic feet of space, requiring creative packing for road trips.

In contrast, the 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim featured solar panels that could generate extra driving range and run the air conditioning when parked. The interior offered spacious rear-seat legroom, with features like vents, manual side-window shades, and heated seats. Cargo space was generous at 16 cubic feet, with a cleverly hidden trunk release. The push-button gear selector and intuitive controls made for a user-friendly experience, while the Limited trim boasted a high-res digital dash and advanced infotainment system.

The 2019 Audi A6 was a technological marvel, featuring the latest Multi-Media Interface (MMI) with dual touchscreen displays, haptic feedback, and lush graphics. The navigation system used Google Earth imagery, and the handwriting recognition and natural-voice-recognition systems were outstanding. The Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation was a standout feature, and the Bang & Olufsen sound system provided excellent audio quality.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited trim offered an advanced infotainment system with a soothing color scheme and intuitive interface. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Blue Link, with a digital key for remote operation. The turn signal-activated blind spot camera feeds were a helpful addition, and the voice recognition system was fast and efficient. Highway Driving Assist and a detailed head-up display enhanced the driving experience, making the Sonata Hybrid feel like a more expensive vehicle.

The 2019 Audi A6 offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, with features like Pre Sense systems, adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, and intersection assistant. The Prestige trim added HD Matrix LED headlights, though the optional night-vision assistant was not included in the test car. The systems worked subtly and effectively, integrating seamlessly into daily driving.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear emergency braking. The Limited trim offered additional features like parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist, providing a comprehensive safety package.