New Audi A6 Avant: sportier looks, same practicality
The new Audi A6 was introduced in Geneva last month and it gets the company of an estate version, Avant in Audi parlance.
The new A6 Avant has the same boot capacity as its predecessor even though the boot shape changed. The D-pillar has a GT-like angle and the wheelbase has been lengthened, which should give passengers on the back seat more leg room. For the first time, an electric and automated tailgate is standard on all trim levels. The boot has a standard capacity of 565 litres in five-seat mode, increasing to 1,680 litres with the backrests folded down.
All versions will be equipped with a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch or an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. Quattro all-wheel-drive is a standard or optional feature, depending on model.
Mild hybrid
The four and six-cylinder TDI and TFSI engines are all supported by Audi mild hybrid technology based around a belt alternator starter which recovers energy during braking that is harvested by a separate lithium-ion battery.
The A6 Avant comes with a range of safety systems and the latest technology in lightning, assistance and passive safety technology. The City assist pack includes the new crossing assist system while the Tour pack adds adaptive cruise assist which supplements the adaptive cruise control by means of gentle steering intervention to keep the vehicle in lane. The Tour pack also includes Efficiency assist, a system that promotes an economical driving style, predictively factoring in speed limits, bends, roundabouts and turnings as part of the cruise control function. The active throttle pedal gives haptic feedback while driving.
The interior of the A6 Avant features the same minimalist styling as the A6 saloon. The infotainment system is operated via the top display, 8.8 inch in standard form or 10.1 inch if upgraded. The lower 8.6-inch display is used to control the climate control and for text input. A fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit with a 12.3-inch high resolution screen is available, as is a full-colour head-up display.
Image: Audi A6 Avant
