Audi’s new saloon has just been launched in South Africa. With similar character lines to its A4 and A8 siblings, the new A6 hopes to shake up the segment as it takes on its BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class rivals.
According to Audi, highlights of this model include lightweight construction of aluminium and steel for greater agility and improved efficiency. The new A6 is 15 per cent lighter than the model it replaces, with all items conspiring towards greater efficiency.
In terms of styling, it’s typically Audi with the trademark single-frame grille and curved bonnet with dual strakes running along it, as well as box-like brake lamps at the rear. The interior is similarly stylish to the A7’s, with impeccable fit and finish and logically arranged controls.
Two engines are available – a 3,0-litre FSI petrol and a 3,0-litre TDI diesel (the latter in two states of tune). The FSI unit is only available in the A6 Quattro S tronic. Maximum power for this model is 220 kW at 5 250 r/min. The TDI features either 150 kW/400 N.m (with a multitronic gearbox sending power to the front wheels) or 180 kW/500 N.m (with S tronic and quattro). A selection of 2,0-litre four-cylinder units will be available from October, with a hybrid model under consideration for our market.
Standard luxury items across the range include a pop-up screen, stop/start functionality and satellite controls, while the option list is lengthy and includes a heads-up display, full LED technology in each lamp cluster, navigation plus loads more.
Watch out for a driving impression soon.
Prices:
Audi A6 3,0 TDI multitronic R520 500
Audi A6 3,0 TDI quattro S tronic R645 000
Audi A6 3,0T FSI quattro S tronic R655 000
Prices include Audi’s five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.