The handsome new Audi A6 Avant previews the next generation sedan for the United States - Car

 

The handsome new Audi A6 Avant previews the next generation sedan for the United States - Car

Audi is in the process of redesigning its core models. Audi first unveiled the 2025 A5 car, the successor to the long-running A4. Next came the 2025 Q5, which marked the beginning of the third generation of the brand's best-selling car. Audi is now introducing a new A6, presenting the mid-size vehicle in Avant wagon configuration initially. While the 2017 A6 Avant will not be available in the United States—at least not in non-RS or Allroad configurations—a sedan will undoubtedly follow, with many of the same enhancements as Europe's Avant.

Sleek Styling and 48-Volt Assistance

The handsome new Audi A6 Avant previews the next generation sedan for the United States - Car

At first sight, the new A6 Avant does not appear to be a drastically fresh design, but its sharp creases and wide front grille give it an authoritative, sleek appearance that differs significantly from the austere aura of the previous model. The gaping maw at the front is made up of boomerang-shaped pieces and is sandwiched by enormous vents that direct air around the car's sides. The hood has deep indentations, and the headlights use Audi's signature complex LEDs. The A6's slick bodywork leads to a drag coefficient of 0.25, the lowest among Audis with internal combustion engines.

There are three powertrains under the hood, but only one will most likely make its way to the United States in the A6 car. While Europe receives a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 201 horsepower and a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder with the same power output, the US-spec A6 will most likely be offered exclusively with the turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder, which produces 362 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels and features 48-volt electrical assistance. While the gas 2.0-liter, which only drives the front wheels, takes 8.3 seconds to accelerate from zero to 62 mph, the V-6 does it in 4.7 seconds.

The handsome new Audi A6 Avant previews the next generation sedan for the United States - Car

The 48-volt system includes a 1.7-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery connected to a belt alternator starter and a powertrain generator. The latter enables the A6 Avant to operate on electric power while driving slowly, such as in traffic or when parking. It can also take over for short bursts while coasting and provide an additional 24 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque while accelerating from a stop or passing another vehicle. The A6 Avant may also recover energy while braking using the 48-volt system.

High-Tech Inside and Out

When equipped with all-wheel drive, the A6 will include rear-wheel steering, making the huge wagon more agile in tight turns and more stable at greater speeds. Adaptive air suspension is offered, and owners may also add a Quattro Sport rear differential to increase the wagon's agility. Audi claims the steering is more direct than before, thanks to firmer torsion bars and control arm bushings. Audi improved camber on the front axle, which contributed to the company's claim of more communicative and responsive steering.

The handsome new Audi A6 Avant previews the next generation sedan for the United States - Car

The cabin is reminiscent of the 2025 A5 and Q5, with three screens and plenty of silver trim. An 11.9-inch digital gauge cluster supplements the primary 14.5-inch touchscreen, which is slightly angled toward the driver. Optional features include a head-up display and a specialized 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger. Optional features include a panoramic glass roof, a Bang & Olufsen surround sound system with speakers in the front headrests, and four-zone automatic climate control. The driver can also change the outside illumination, selecting from seven different light signatures. The lights may also selectively brighten or dim different sections of the road ahead, increasing nighttime safety for both the A6 driver and other road users.

Deliveries in Europe will begin at the end of May, with the gas-powered four-cylinder priced at $61,000 at current currency rates. The A6 sedan should be unveiled later this year, but sales in the United States are not expected to begin until 2026. Prices should begin in the low $60,000 area, and a more powerful four-cylinder could be introduced in the United States with the V-6.