Audi A6 vs. Lexus ES: Complete comparison 2026

Audi A6 represents a traditional benchmark of German precision in the executive car segment, having gained popularity thanks to a combination of advanced technology, timeless design, and confident driving characteristics. Standing against it is the Lexus ES, a luxury Japanese sedan that attracts customers primarily with its maximum acoustic comfort, first-class build quality, and highly efficient hybrid powertrains. Let's take a detailed look at how these two premium rivals stand in a direct comparison and which of them will be the better choice for you on the used car market.

Looking at the exterior dimensions, both cars proudly belong to the premium executive class, yet each approaches its size slightly differently. For the most relevant comparison in the four-year-old used car market, we have chosen the currently popular generations – the Audi A6 (C8 generation) and the Lexus ES (XZ1 generation). The Japanese representative, at 4975 mm, is 36 to 42 mm longer than the German sedan, whose length ranges between 4933 and 4939 mm. This slight increase gives the Lexus a very majestic and elongated silhouette. On the other hand, this extra length may make maneuvering and parking in tight city garages slightly more difficult, where the Audi feels more agile thanks to its slightly more compact footprint.

Another interesting difference can be found in the width and height of the body. The Audi A6 is 21 mm wider than the Lexus ES (1865 mm) at 1886 mm. Furthermore, the German model is slightly taller – the sedan measures 1457 mm (the Estate version up to 1467 mm), while the elegantly and sportily sloping roof of the Lexus ends at 1445 mm. In practice, the wider build of the Audi A6 translates into more generous interior space in the shoulder and elbow area. Conversely, the lower profile of the Lexus ES visually emphasizes its excellent aerodynamics and aggressive look, although it may mean slightly more limited headroom for taller-than-average rear-seat passengers.

A crucial parameter for driving comfort and longitudinal cabin space is the wheelbase. Here, the Audi A6 clearly dominates with a value of 2924 mm, which is a significant 54 mm more than what the Lexus ES chassis offers (2870 mm). The longer wheelbase of the Audi provides calmer directional stability at high motorway speeds and allows engineers to more effectively maximize legroom for rear passengers, making this car an ideal companion for long and demanding business trips.

When it comes to practicality and trunk capacity, the Audi A6 and Lexus ES represent two completely different approaches in the market for approximately four-year-old used cars. While the German premium brand relies on a wide range of body styles to cover various customer needs, its Japanese competitor strictly adheres to the traditional and elegant sedan silhouette. This naturally plays a crucial role in vehicle selection – it is a decision between maximum family utility and a representative car for daily personal needs.

Looking at the specific figures for the current and highly sought-after generations (Audi A6 C8 and Lexus ES XZ1), the German representative clearly has the upper hand. The standard Audi A6 sedan offers a trunk capacity of 530 liters, which in practice means valuable space for several extra suitcases when packing for the family. The Lexus ES 300h, which is popular on our market exclusively as an efficient hybrid sedan, provides a trunk capacity of 454 liters. Although this figure is slightly smaller – partly due to the necessary placement of the hybrid powertrain – the space remains highly usable and is fully sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer holiday for two.

If maximum cargo capacity is your priority, the Audi A6 estate (traditionally referred to as Avant) is the clear choice. In its basic configuration, it offers a respectable 565 liters, which can be expanded to a massive 1680 liters by folding down the rear seats. It is worth noting an important detail when choosing a used car: if you opt for plug-in hybrid engines (labeled TFSI e), the large traction battery reduces the trunk to a below-average 360 liters for the sedan and 405 liters for the Avant version. The Lexus ES, on the other hand, does not offer an estate version at all and maintains a consistent volume across all trim levels.

Clear Comparison of Trunk Capacity

(Note: For Audi TFSI e plug-in hybrid versions, the basic capacity drops to 360 liters for the sedan and 405 liters for the estate version. The Lexus is exclusively a hybrid with a fixed capacity).

Trailer weight, or total towing capacity, plays a key role for many premium car buyers. This is especially true if you plan to use the car regularly for summer holidays with a family caravan, or if you simply need to transport larger loads to a cottage from time to time. In this regard, there is a vast difference between the examined representatives of the executive class.

While the German Audi A6 (C8 generation, produced between 2018–2025) is a very capable tow car, the Japanese Lexus ES 300h (XZ1 generation, on the market since 2019) is not homologated for towing trailers in Europe at all.

• Audi A6 (C8): Both the standard and maximum permitted weight of a braked trailer for this model is exactly 2000 kg, while the value for an unbraked trailer reaches the usual maximum of 750 kg. A major advantage is that this full capacity is maintained not only by traditional diesel engines like the 40 TDI or 45 TDI, but even by modern plug-in hybrid variants (50 TFSI e and 55 TFSI e).
• Lexus ES 300h (XZ1): The Japanese sedan has a towing capacity of exactly 0 kg for both braked and unbraked trailers listed in its registration certificate. This fact is due to the specific design and focus of the advanced hybrid system, where engineers prioritized maximum efficiency and smoothness of ride over extreme towing power. Any retrofitted tow bar on the Lexus can therefore be used exclusively as a mount for a bicycle carrier.

In practical life, the consequences of this difference are absolutely fundamental. The towing power of the Audi A6 is fully sufficient for towing an extra-large caravan, a horse trailer, or a heavier boat to the sea. The car thus easily handles the role of a full-fledged family all-rounder. In contrast, the Lexus ES represents a purely comfortable and representative highway cruiser. It simply won't help you with transporting heavier building materials or moving furniture in a trailer.

Final SummaryThe interpretation of this parameter is completely clear for a used car buyer. If a tow bar is a necessity for you and you plan to tow anything other than bicycles, your choice is narrowed down to the Audi A6. The Lexus ES is immediately out of this specific user competition due to its zero towing capacity.

The approach of both carmakers to powertrains in this class of luxury sedans (and also estates for Audi) differs diametrically, which is of fundamental importance for buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars. While Audi, with its A6 generation (C8, produced since 2018), relies on an extremely wide range of diesel and petrol engines supported by mild-hybrid technology or powerful plug-in hybrids (PHEV), Lexus takes the path of maximum simplicity. In its current generation (XZ1, since 2019), the Japanese carmaker offers a single, but all the more proven and efficient full-hybrid 300h powertrain on the European market, without the need for plug-in charging. For frequent motorway driving and fans of driving dynamics, Audi takes the lead with its powerful engines (e.g., 2.0 TDI or 3.0 TDI); conversely, drivers looking for uncompromising reliability, long-term low maintenance costs, and excellent efficiency in the city and on country roads will appreciate the Lexus philosophy.

Audi A6 Powertrains (C8, 2018–present)

The engine range for a roughly four-year-old Audi A6 generation C8 will satisfy every driver. A mild-hybrid (MHEV) system has become standard for common powertrains, helping to smooth out operation and reduce fuel consumption. The entry-level diesel choice is the 35 TDI with 120 kW, although for a larger car, the popular 40 TDI (150 kW) often makes better sense in terms of dynamics. The pinnacle of the diesel range, ideal for fast travel with immense pulling power, is the V6 50 TDI producing a massive 210 kW and 620 Nm of torque. Petrol engines are very well represented by the four-cylinder 45 TFSI and the powerful V6 55 TFSI (250 kW). At this vehicle age, modern high-performance plug-in hybrids 50 TFSI e and 55 TFSI e with the possibility of purely electric driving are also available on the used market. The vast majority of used cars from this period feature advanced quattro all-wheel drive and S tronic (dual-clutch) or tiptronic (torque converter) automatic transmissions. Over the years, electric models of the C9 e-tron generation have also joined the range, but these are brand new (from late 2024) and naturally won't be found on the four-year-old used market yet.

(Note: The figures above reflect typical values from around 2020–2022; Audi continuously adjusted power outputs in response to changing emission standards.)

Lexus ES Powertrains (XZ1, 2019–present)

While the German competition impresses with a wide range of fuels and displacements, the Lexus ES bets everything on a single, but perfectly thought-out card – the 300h version. This is a generation-proven full-hybrid (HEV) that combines a robust naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder with a traction electric motor and a specific e-CVT planetary gearbox under the bonnet. The total system output of this harmonised unit is a very solid 160 kW (218 hp). Power is always and exclusively transmitted to the front wheels, as 4x4 (AWD) drive is missing from the European Lexus ES range. The absence of sensitive turbochargers, complex dual-clutch transmissions, and propshafts makes this powertrain probably the most reliable used car in its class. The system won't provide the typical "kick" from a turbocharger, but it will reward you with fantastically velvety smooth operation, cabin quietness, and exemplarily low fuel consumption. You can easily maintain this around 5 to 5.5 litres even in complex urban traffic.

Summary and Recommendation

The lineup of powertrains clearly defines the target groups of drivers. If you are among the "motorway cruisers," need a car with a large power reserve for brisk overtaking on country roads, and all-wheel drive for safe trips to the mountains, it is ideal to look into the Audi camp. Versions like the 40 TDI or 50 TDI are hard to beat for frequent and long business trips in terms of driving dynamics. On the other hand, the Lexus ES with the 300h powertrain is the unbeatable ruler of the suburban and urban mix. It targets calmer, pragmatically minded drivers for whom absolute operational reliability and the lowest, most predictable fuel bills and potential post-warranty servicing costs are the priority.

Choosing the right engine is a key step towards long-term satisfaction with a used car, with our recommendations based on real-world experience, fuel consumption, user feedback, and mechanical reliability. While the Audi A6 (in the popular C8 generation, ideal for the four-year-old used car market) offers a wide range of diesel, petrol, and plug-in hybrid engines designed for maximum highway performance, the Lexus ES (XZ1 generation) takes a completely different path, relying on a single sophisticated full hybrid powertrain. From a used car market perspective, this pits the traditional variability of the German engineering school against Japanese specialization with an emphasis on uncompromising long-term durability.

For the Audi A6, we recommend: 40 TDI (150 kW)

This 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel is, from the perspective of a real user looking for a roughly four-year-old car, the most sensible choice in the entire C8 generation lineup. It offers an excellent balance between adequate dynamics and low operating costs, with real-world fuel consumption staying below 6 liters per 100 km even for such a large vehicle. The engine features a well-tuned torque curve (400 Nm), and the seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission often works more logically and without the delays that owners of the more powerful six-cylinder models (50 TDI) sometimes complain about. Although V6 engines tempt with higher performance, in terms of future service risks (especially with more complex mild-hybrid systems and potential timing chain repairs), the 40 TDI version is much safer. The main risk with the 40 TDI is DPF clogging or EGR system issues during exclusively urban operation. However, this ailment can be easily prevented by regular longer trips. When buying, use diagnostics to check the particulate filter's soot level. This engine is perfectly tailored for drivers who cover many highway kilometers and those looking for a representative cruiser with rational maintenance costs.

For the Lexus ES, we recommend: 300h (160 kW)

For the Lexus ES (XZ1 generation) on the European market, complex decision-making is completely eliminated because it is offered exclusively with the 300h hybrid powertrain, which is an absolute benchmark for reliability. It is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder paired with an electric motor and an e-CVT planetary gearbox (fourth generation of the Toyota hybrid system). The result is a combined output of 160 kW (218 hp). The main technical advantage is unmatched smoothness and real-world fuel consumption of around 5.5 liters in city and suburban traffic, where the car can drive a substantial part of the time purely on electricity. Mechanically, the system is almost bulletproof – it lacks a traditional starter, alternator, or friction clutch, components that often fail in conventional cars. A weakness can be the acoustic performance; the e-CVT gearbox keeps the engine at high revs during sharp acceleration, which can seem noisier, and it has slightly higher fuel consumption on the highway than the German diesel. When buying a used car, check the cleanliness of the hybrid battery cooling filter (located under the rear seats) – if it is clogged with dust, the battery cools less effectively, shortening its lifespan. This powertrain will be appreciated by composed drivers who prefer a comfortable ride and for whom absolute peace of mind and low city fuel consumption are priorities.

Manufacturers' paper fuel consumption values often differ significantly from what drivers experience in everyday real-world traffic. Although the modern WLTP measurement methodology has brought slightly more realistic figures to catalogs, to get a true picture of the efficiency of roughly four-year-old used cars, it is necessary to look directly into the long-term logs of the owners themselves. The following comparison is based on an analysis of real user records on the crowdsourced portal Spritmonitor.de and puts them in the context of factory data for the Audi A6 (C8 generation) and Lexus ES (XZ1 generation) models, which most frequently appear on the market for nearly new used cars.

Looking at the data obtained, the interpretation of trends is quite clear. Customers choosing the Japanese Lexus ES have a single core engine at their disposal – the refined full-hybrid ES 300h system. This car excels thanks to advanced recuperation and efficiency in combination with electricity, which is reflected in an excellent average consumption of 5.6 l/100 km. A surprising finding for many buyers is the fact that this large petrol hybrid can drive more economically in normal non-highway traffic than the basic economical diesel four-cylinder Audi A6 40 TDI (5.8 l/100 km).

Powerful diesel six-cylinders, which are widely represented in used car dealerships by the popular Audi A6 50 TDI with quattro all-wheel drive, naturally require more fuel to get moving and ask for an average of 7.2 l/100 km. Conventional petrol engines, such as the A6 45 TFSI version, have a real consumption reliably exceeding the eight-liter mark. This clearly demonstrates the ailment of some turbocharged units – in a large and heavy executive sedan, the promised paper savings do not materialize, and consumption grows rapidly in proportion to the weight of your right foot. An interesting extreme is the plug-in hybrid Audi A6 50 TFSI e, which shows an average of a low 4.2 l/100 km, but this value is directly dependent on strict discipline in charging the battery from a socket. If you do not charge the PHEV car, its consumption immediately attacks the values of a purely petrol model.

For the average user and used car buyer, these values mean only one thing: you must necessarily adapt the choice of the right drive to your driving profile. If you are looking for an executive cruiser primarily for long and fast highway journeys across Europe, the diesel Audi A6 (especially the balanced 40 TDI version) will offer you a huge range on a single tank and exemplary efficiency, where the car's aerodynamic drag does not bother the turbodiesel as much as it does the hybrid. On the other hand, if your daily routes consist of a mixture of city traffic jams, commuting on the outskirts of metropolises, and classic country roads, the Lexus ES 300h represents an absolutely unrivaled and extremely efficient choice, moreover without the need to look for charging stations.

Fuel consumption thus becomes a crucial decision-making factor in the battle between these two premium representatives of the upper-middle class. While the Audi A6, with its advanced turbodiesels, maintains its position as the absolute ruler of smooth highway travel, the Lexus ES dominates in the field of everyday local versatility and shows that a precisely tuned Japanese hybrid can confidently outclass even premium German TDIs in terms of consumption outside the highway.

Used Car Price Comparison: Audi A6 vs. Lexus ES

When looking for a premium executive sedan on the used market, models approximately four years old (2021 to 2023) represent an ideal compromise between modern technology and an acceptable price. Both the Audi A6 (C8 generation) and the Lexus ES (XV70 generation after facelift) have already undergone their largest initial depreciation at this age. However, the approach of both manufacturers to pricing and engine offerings creates a very different situation on the used market.

Market Price Range (2021–2023 models)

Audi A6: Huge Selection and Diverse Equipment

The market for used Audi A6 cars is massive and incredibly diverse. The cheapest units from 2021 and 2022 start slightly below the €31,000 mark, but these are usually models with the base four-cylinder diesel (40 TDI) and mileage well over 100,000 kilometers. Conversely, fully equipped six-cylinders (50 TDI or 55 TFSI), often in the highly sought-after practical Avant body style or with the S line sports package, easily exceed €45,000.

Due to the extensive optional equipment, which commonly accounted for up to a third of the total purchase price for new German cars, a higher rate of depreciation is noticeable in the first years of operation for the Audi A6. For a used car buyer, however, this is a huge advantage – top-tier technology, advanced assistants, and luxury materials can be obtained for just a fraction of their original price.

Lexus ES: Smaller Supply, but More Stable Value

The Lexus ES represents a rather conservative but exceptionally rational choice on the European used car market. Given that this model is offered almost exclusively as a hybrid sedan (ES 300h) in our region, the price range of advertised cars is much narrower. Units with higher mileage from 2021 can be purchased for around €29,000, while nearly new cars from late 2022 in the highest trim levels (such as Prestige or Luxury) consistently stay just below the €45,000 mark.

Lexus traditionally benefits from its reputation as a producer of extremely reliable cars. The proven naturally aspirated engine combined with Toyota's sophisticated hybrid system guarantees excellent value retention over time. Although the supply of used cars is fractional compared to Audi, the buyer has a much easier time navigating the selection. The Japanese automaker primarily sold the ES in clearly defined trim levels without confusing option lists, so there is practically no risk of an unpleasant surprise in the form of missing key equipment features in a used car.

Both compared models, the Audi A6 and Lexus ES, boast a maximum five-star rating in independent Euro NCAP safety tests. When choosing a used car, however, it is crucial to put these prestigious results into the correct context and consider the year the crash tests were physically performed.

Euro NCAP's methodology is constantly evolving and becoming stricter. Today's tests place much greater emphasis on advanced active assistance systems, cyclist detection systems, intersection emergency scenarios, or complex frontal collision simulations with a mobile barrier. Therefore, percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared. In the case of these two models, however, an ideal situation arises – both vehicles underwent barrier tests in the same year (2018), allowing for a completely fair and direct comparison according to the protocols in force at the time.

Audi A6: Protection with German Precision

The German Audi A6 limousine (current C8 generation) completed a series of crash tests in the autumn of 2018. It earned an excellent 93% for adult occupant protection, confirming the extraordinary rigidity of its construction combining steel and aluminum elements. Child occupant protection was rated at a solid 85%. Regarding vulnerable road users (pedestrians and cyclists), the car achieved a score of 81%, largely thanks to the active hood, which lifts upon detecting an impact to cushion the pedestrian's fall. In the safety assist category, Audi scored 76%, relying as standard on Audi pre sense front technology with obstacle detection and automatic emergency braking.

Lexus ES: A Premium Shield from Japan

The seventh-generation Lexus ES also underwent testing in 2018 and achieved such convincing results that it even took home the Euro NCAP award for the safest large family and hybrid car of the year. Adult protection reached a great 91%, and for child occupants, the car scored an above-average 87%. However, the result in the area of pedestrian and cyclist protection was absolutely phenomenal, where Lexus achieved an unprecedented 90% thanks to the sophisticated Lexus Safety System+ safety package. The car's assistance systems were rated at 77%, pointing to very generous safety equipment even in the base model.

What the Results Mean for the Used Car Market

From the perspective of today's buyer of an approximately four-year-old used car, one formal detail must be mentioned. Euro NCAP ratings are usually valid for exactly six years from the date of the test. This means that the five-star certificates of both these cars from 2018 have formally expired recently, and according to the latest strict standards from 2024, the cars would have to undergo a new assessment. In terms of physical passive safety and the robustness of assistance systems, however, they are still among the best-protected cars in their class on the current used car market, easily averting most common risky situations.

In conclusion, although both limousines represent an equally safe choice in terms of passive protection for adult occupants, the Japanese model comes out slightly ahead in this direct duel. The Lexus ES offers somewhat more convincing results in child protection and absolutely excels in consideration for vulnerable road users. As a result, the ES provides a slightly more comprehensive and modern safety standard.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for the customer and bring a specific approach to luxury, technology, and utility value.

Audi A6: Technological Supremacy and Precise Dynamics

The German premium car relies primarily on top-tier digitalization, sharp-edged design, and driving technologies that you will appreciate both on the highway and in narrow city streets.

• Infotainment and controls: The interior is dominated by two large touchscreens of the MMI system with haptic and acoustic feedback, which almost completely replace traditional physical buttons. This system is complemented by the brilliantly sharp Audi virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster.
• Chassis and maneuverability: In the optional equipment of older used cars, you will often come across dynamic all-wheel steering (rear-axle steering). This radically reduces the turning radius, facilitates parking, and increases stability at higher speeds. Comfort is then ensured by the optional adaptive air suspension.
• Advanced lighting: A typical feature of Audi is its advanced headlights. HD Matrix LED lights can perfectly mask oncoming vehicles without dazzling other drivers and add impressive dynamic animations when unlocking or locking the car.
• Sport package: The traditional S line equipment brings more aggressively shaped bumpers, lowered sport suspension, a specific alloy wheel design, and deep anatomical seats, which give the car a significantly more dynamic character.
• Assistance systems and telematics: There is also support for remote access via the myAudi mobile app for remote vehicle monitoring and an extensive range of assistants grouped into the Tour and City packages, which provide advanced semi-autonomous driving in traffic jams and on the highway.

Lexus ES: Perfect Silence and Japanese Takumi Craftsmanship

Lexus approaches the premium class quite differently. It does not strive for sporty aggression, but for the absolute isolation of the occupants from surrounding stress, maximum comfort, and a unique level of craftsmanship.

• Comfort and acoustics: The ES model is renowned for its extremely quiet cabin. It uses an Active Noise Control system, laminated acoustic glass, a specific aerodynamic design, and special hollow wheels that minimize wind noise and tire rolling noise.
• Materials and craftsmanship: The interior boasts hand-finishing by Japanese Takumi masters. You will find details here that are missing from European competitors – for example, specific leather stitching, a hand-finished steering wheel, or unique Hadori wood trim, whose pattern is inspired by traditional Japanese sword making.
• Audio experience: Music lovers will appreciate the top-of-the-line Mark Levinson PurePlay audio system with 17 speakers. It is designed specifically for the cabin architecture of the ES model and offers unrivaled concert-quality sound.
• Unique technology: In higher trim levels (and in selected markets), the Lexus ES can be equipped with digital side-view mirrors. Cameras and internal displays replace traditional mirrors, which significantly improves the car's aerodynamics and ensures a clear view even at night or in heavy rain.
• Hybrid system and safety: The fourth generation of the full hybrid drive guarantees exceptionally smooth operation, imperceptible switching between the electric and internal combustion engine, and excellent fuel consumption in the city without the need for plug-in charging. It also includes the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ package, which is among the most extensive standard safety systems on the market.

Audi A6 is an ideal choice for demanding managers and families looking for a technologically advanced car for fast and comfortable long-distance travel. Thanks to its wide range of engines, estate body option, and all-wheel drive, it represents an exceptionally versatile and practical premium choice on the European market.

The Lexus ES is the perfect car for calmer drivers who value maximum comfort, cabin quietness, and worry-free operation with minimal risk of expensive faults above all else. While it doesn't offer the sporty experience or huge boot of its German rivals, it makes up for it with a luxurious, calming environment and extraordinary reliability.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, and hundreds of independent technical inspections, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems you may encounter with these approximately four-year-old used cars.

Audi A6 generation C8 (since 2018) offers top-tier technological equipment and excellent sound insulation, but at the same time suffers from several specific, often very expensive faults.

• Powertrain and drive: By far the biggest concern for the popular 3.0 TDI six-cylinders (45 TDI and 50 TDI versions) is the failure of the 48V starter-generator (alternator) within the mild-hybrid system. This fault often leads to the car's battery being completely drained and the need for a tow. These engines also suffer from noticeable throttle lag (the so-called turbo lag) and frequent oil leaks into the space between the cylinders. For the smaller two-liter engines (2.0 TFSI and TDI), higher oil consumption occasionally occurs.
• Electronics and infotainment: Software errors in the MMI system are very common, manifesting as screen freezes, the entire system hanging, or parking camera failures. False warnings from assistance systems (especially Audi Pre-sense anti-collision) also appear.
• Transmission: The seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission can jerk unpleasantly and feel hesitant when crawling at low speeds and in traffic jams. For the eight-speed Tiptronic torque-converter automatic (for six-cylinders), regular oil changes are absolutely crucial.
• Chassis: The optional air suspension is highly comfortable, but requires caution with used cars – a potential failure of the compressor or the air bellows themselves means very high service costs.

The seventh-generation Lexus ES (XV70, since 2018) is considered an absolute benchmark of reliability on the used car market, and serious mechanical problems almost completely avoid it.

• Powertrain and drive: The full-hybrid powertrain in the 300h model (a combination of a naturally aspirated 2.5l four-cylinder and an electric motor) is practically bulletproof in the long term. The only more frequent problem with cars with lower mileage is the discharge of the smaller 12V starter battery if the car sits for a long time or is used mainly for very short trips.
• Transmission: The planetary e-CVT transmission in the hybrid is structurally very simple and extremely durable, showing practically no typical faults.
• Bodywork and exterior: Owners quite often complain about a softer and thinner layer of paint, which is prone to stone chips on the highway and scratches easily.
• Electronics and infotainment: While the rest of the car works flawlessly, the infotainment in pre-facelift models (until 2022) can have occasional outages, and its operation via the touchpad is very uncomfortable for the user. Minor software errors in the built-in navigation have been reported for some units.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is crucial. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two models, although a comprehensive car inspection by an experienced mechanic can detect potentially very expensive defects in time.

When choosing an Audi A6:

• S tronic (DSG) transmission smoothness: With the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, focus on stop-and-go traffic during the test drive and shifting from D to R and back. There should be no jerking, delays, or harsh shocks. Jerky behavior often indicates an approaching expensive replacement of the clutches or mechatronics.
• Mild-hybrid system (MHEV) and starter-generator: Especially with the popular diesel engines, focus on the smoothness of the engine restarting via the start-stop system. Audi A6 models around four years old (C8 generation) used a 48V system, the failure of which (e.g., a faulty alternator) can leave you stranded. Watch for any warning error messages on the dashboard display.
• MMI infotainment responsiveness: Audi uses a dual-touchscreen system. Test switching between menus, entering navigation destinations, and operating the air conditioning. Older software versions can freeze, load slowly, or restart spontaneously. Find out if the system has updated software.
• Air suspension condition: If the chosen car has the optional pneumatic suspension, test all height modes (e.g., from Dynamic to Raise) while the engine is running. The height change must occur smoothly. Also, check if any side of the car sags after parking, which would indicate a leak in the air bellows.
• Particulate filters in TDI engines: Cars operated mainly in city traffic often have problems with DPF clogging and crystallization of the AdBlue system injectors. If a warning light for the engine or exhaust system appears on the dashboard, it is a reason for significant caution.

When choosing a Lexus ES:

• Hybrid battery condition: For the dominant ES 300h engine, the condition of the traction battery is key. Although the Toyota/Lexus system is famous for its durability, always request a diagnostic battery health printout (the so-called Battery Health Check) before buying. Lower capacity means more frequent activation of the internal combustion engine, worse dynamics, and higher fuel consumption.
• e-CVT transmission smoothness: The electronically controlled planetary transmission in the hybrid must function perfectly smoothly without any shifting or jerking. During the test drive, floor the accelerator and also observe slow take-offs from a standstill. Any hesitation or unusual sound is a warning signal.
• Infotainment control: In models before the facelift to a full touchscreen, the system was controlled via a central touchpad, which could be imprecise or suffer from delayed reactions. Thoroughly test whether the touchpad responds without dropouts; repairing this module out of warranty is usually surprisingly expensive.
• Interior noises on uneven surfaces: The Lexus ES is famous for its fantastic cabin soundproofing. Deliberately take it on a poorer road and listen closely. Creaking from the sunroof or noises from the dashboard can mean worn materials or, in the worse case, a car that has been disassembled in the past, for example, after an accident.
• Transparency of service history: The manufacturer makes the extended warranty on the hybrid system conditional on regular (usually annual) inspections. If these inspections and the traction battery guarantee are missing from the service book of an older car, you are exposing yourself to a huge financial risk in the event of a hybrid system failure.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, auto.cz, automix.cz, autoexpress.cz, veteran.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.