Audi dropped its Atmospheres interior design program for 2002, but never fear, the interior of even the base A6 is sumptuous and worthy of this class of automobile. Not only are the shapes pleasing to the eye, everything touchable feels like it belongs in a luxury-class car.The front seats are well cushioned, but not deeply bolstered. Non-sporting drivers will prefer these seats, as they provide all the lateral retention they'll need for comfortable everyday driving while not requiring a climb over the side bolsters. The rear seat is contoured for two, though it will accommodate three adults even if cross-country trips would result in more intimacy than usually desired.
The dash-with its nicely finished splash of wood (also in the center console and door panels)-is well laid out, with controls that are easy to operate. Driver and passenger can set the temperature of their choice, and even the sound system is easy enough to operate without a college degree in computer programming. Instruments are white-on-black in daylight, but at night illuminate in a jet-fighter cockpit red. It looks high-tech, and is theoretically better for night vision. Quality touches include over-door assist handles that have a soft-return feature. Front and rear seats have reading lights, and there are footwell lights front and rear as well. The door handles are also illuminated for easy nighttime exit, and a red LED light illuminates the center console area with a soft glow. The A6 interior is a nice place to be.