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Revamped, restyled and loaded with technology, Audi A6 launches into the upscale luxury realm, going bumper to bumper with high-end midsize sedans from such stalwarts as BMW, Lexus, Cadillac, Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz.

For 2005, and continuing into 2006, A6 sheds its refined but conservative style, immediately evident from the massive chrome grille that says, “Hey! Look at me!”

A6 is the latest Audi model to get the deep-grille treatment, a controversial look that sets Audi models apart and puts some people off. I’m OK with it, though from some angles A6 looks like it could find work as a battering ram.

The new A6 is an enjoyable car to drive on several levels. Handling and control are first-rate, with Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel drive performing flawlessly.

Audi sets the standard for beautiful car interiors, and the lush cabin in the A6 moves that up another notch. Wood, leather and chrome accents abound, yet the overall effect is elegantly sophisticated.

One piece of technology is unfortunate: an overly complex system for controlling audio, navigation and other functions that is all too reminiscent of BMW’s notorious i-drive.

There are two engine choices for A6, a strong and economical V-6 or a muscular V-8 with 325 horsepower. I drove the version with the V-6, which at 255 horsepower musters plenty of pull and turns in a decent EPA mileage of 19 city, 26 highway.

Starting at nearly $41,000, A6 remains an exclusive piece of hardware, though considering all you get, it could be a relative bargain.

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The lowdown

PERFORMANCE: Audi wrings loads of power out of its V-6, getting 255 horses out of 3.2 liters while keeping things smooth, quiet and economical. Credit such technology as Fuel Straight Injection, infinitely variable camshaft adjustment, four-valve heads and variable intake manifold.

If that’s too hard to fathom, just note that Audi pulled out all the stops to make its V-6 all that it could be.

The startup procedure with ignition key and push button is too fussy and, basically, redundant.

DRIVABILITY: Another Audi hallmark is responsive steering and balanced handling, the quattro all-wheel-drive system adding an impressive level of traction and cornering control.

Adding to A6’s drivability are electronic stability control, speed-sensitive steering and anti-lock brakes with brake assist.

STYLING: That big nose gets lots of flak, but as a signature piece of Audi’s sedan lineup, I think it works fairly well. Being a car geek, I see the historic reference to Audi’s famed racecars of the 1930s.

A6’s lines are sharp and streamlined.

INTERIOR: Sumptuous. Now that’s a word I don’t use much, but I think I can get away with it here. The leather seats are supportive, with adjustments to suit anyone; the dash is handsome, solid and purposeful, and the Bose audio is truly exceptional.

The test car came with wood trim, applied sparingly and in good taste. Of course, virtually every power and convenience feature comes standard.

The Multi-Media Interface that controls the audio and navigation is simply a pain. It does nothing to improve upon conventional buttons, switches and dials.

BOTTOM LINE: A lovely new entry for Audi, which continues to impress with its line of classy, good-performing automobiles.

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RELATED

Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door midsize sedan, all-wheel drive.

Engine: 3.2-liter V-6, 255 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, 243 pound-feet torque at 3,250 rpm.

Transmission: 6-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 111.9 inches.

Overall length: 193.5 inches.

Curb weight: 4,012 pounds.

EPA rating: 19 city, 26 highway.

Highs: Gorgeous interior, engine power, refined drivability.

Lows: Complex controls, controversial grille, fussy startup procedure.

PRICING

Base price: $40,990

Price as tested: $45,370.

OPTIONS

* Premium package, including power moonroof, adaptive headlights, Bose sound system, wood interior trim, $3,000.

* 17-inch alloy wheels, $750.

* Shipping, $720.

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