2026 Audi A6 vs 2025 Cadillac CT5

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 continued to build on the legacy of its predecessor, the CTS, by offering a visually appealing design and a comfortable driving experience. Despite its attractive appearance and rewarding drive, it still fell short in sophistication compared to its rivals, and the trunk space remained limited. Over the years, the CT5 gained enhancements in power, performance, and technology, with the 2025 model showcasing a refreshed look, including vertically stacked headlights and a bold front fascia. Inside, the CT5 featured a striking 33-inch display and retained practical switchgear, although some interior materials felt less premium.

In contrast, the 2026 Audi A6 presented a handsome yet understated design, with a lower "singleframe" grille and Quattro-inspired fender flares. While it didn't make as bold an impression as the CT5, it offered a more subdued elegance compared to its German counterparts. The A6's lighting features included pixelated LED headlights with programmable signatures and taillights with programmable icons. The interior, however, was criticized for its bland materials, even in the top Technik trim. Audi's focus on technology was evident, but the execution left room for improvement, with an interface that was both oversimplified and challenging to navigate.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a choice between a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6. The latter, featured in our test car, delivered 335 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 provided ample power for both city and highway driving, it came at a cost, both financially and in terms of fuel economy. The CT5's handling was commendable, with a platform engineered for spirited driving, though the Premium Luxury trim felt softer and less athletic than its sportier counterparts.

The 2026 Audi A6, on the other hand, was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 362 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard quattro AWD, offered impressive acceleration, reaching 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The A6's handling was enhanced by brake-based torque vectoring and an optional sport rear differential, though the ride quality suffered with the Sport Plus package's steel-spring suspension. The A6 excelled on highways, but its performance in dynamic driving scenarios was less thrilling.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 provided a comfortable road-tripping experience, with features like heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. However, the interior was marred by road noise and flat front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom but limited headroom, and the CT5's cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor complicating luggage storage.

In comparison, the 2026 Audi A6 offered a slightly longer body but maintained the same wheelbase, resulting in no significant increase in passenger space. The panoramic glass roof added front-seat headroom, while rear-seat occupants enjoyed climate controls and USB-C ports. The A6's trunk space was more generous at 382 litres, surpassing the CT5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though falling short of the BMW 5 Series.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 boasted a new 33-inch panoramic display, integrating digital instrumentation and a wide infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-in technology. This system offered seamless connectivity with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. The CT5 also featured a head-up display and Teen Driver technology, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2026 Audi A6 introduced the Digital Stage setup, with an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch touchscreen. However, the MMI infotainment system was criticized for its oversimplified layout and inconvenient pop-up menus. Audi planned an interface update mid-year, but early models lacked this improvement. The optional Bang & Olufsen audio system added a unique touch with headrest speakers for navigation directions.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including a surround-view camera and active blind-spot monitoring. The standout feature was Super Cruise, offering hands-free driving on approved roads. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA, highlighting its safety credentials.

The 2026 Audi A6 included standard driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitors. However, its lane centring feature allowed for noticeable lane wobble. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of writing, typical for a new model year.