I had an a4 avant 2.0 tdi s line 170 bhp manual and i hated it. i found it was very difficult to get off the line without stalling,solo or pulling.It was if you had to think about pulling away,if i didnt,bang, it stopped. this is due i believe to the wide tyres that give good grip and a small flywheel that has insufficent energy to do the job (in my opinion). any way the a4 made way for an a6 auto saloon s line 3.0 . fantastic towcar if a little low at the rear (couldnt keep the mudflaps on). I wouldnt hesitate to recommend an auto but would suggest an extended test drive if a manual,fantastic car.