The new Audi A6 Avant sets design standards and stands for quality and comfort in the premium full-size class like no other vehicle. It impresses with a cleverly designed body concept and lots of variability, offering plenty of space for everyday life as well as for demanding recreational activities. The Audi A6 Avant models are based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), powered by modern petrol and diesel engines that are more efficient and dynamic thanks to the mild-hybrid technology MHEV plus. Additional highlights include intuitive operating and infotainment concepts, new digital lighting technology, and intelligent driver assistance systems.

Since 1977, the name Avant has stood for vehicles that combine sporty and elegant design, superior functionality, and outstanding driving dynamics. 48 years after the debut of the Audi 100 Avant, the A6 Avant is ushering in a new era.

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner: "We are writing the next chapter in our Avant history: The new Audi A6 unites an elegant and dynamic design with exceptional aerodynamics. Efficient yet high-performance drive systems and cutting-edge suspension technology combine sportiness with a high level of comfort, making traveling in the A6 a first-class experience." With this model, the company is also continuing its major product initiative that began in 2024. The modernization and rejuvenation of the product portfolio is part of the Audi Agenda, with which Audi is positioning itself for the future in the face of intensified competition. "With the A6, we are now renewing an important model series," said Döllner.

Like the new Q5 and A5, the new A6 Avant is also based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). The E³ 1.2 electronics architecture ensures modern connectivity, updates, and digitalization features in all new models.

Elegant and dynamic: the exterior design

With its long wheelbase, large wheels, and sculpted body, the new Audi A6 Avant is perfectly proportioned. The interplay of clear surfaces and dynamic lines gives it an expression of elegance and sportiness. The combination of a wide track and strong shoulders with an extended hood contributes to this as well. The model's reduced design vocabulary conveys a functional and timeless character.

The front is characterized by the low-positioned Singleframe, which extends to the lower edge of the front apron. Together with the sleek headlights and raised Audi rings, it gives the A6 Avant a striking, focused, and distinguished expression. Three-dimensionally modelled air curtains positioned under the headlights give the bumper a powerful and sporty look.

Three sweeping lines give the side view a dynamic character, with two of them forming the pronounced muscular sections that represent the quattro all-wheel drive. The blisters powerfully emerging from the shoulder surface at the front and rear wheels are reminiscent of the Audi Ur-quattro and a core element of Audi's design DNA. "Making technology visible" is a central design principle of the brand. A third line runs across the sill, visually connecting the front with the rear and giving the A6 a sense of motion even when stationary. The powerfully taut roofline flows into a striking roof spoiler that spans the sporty, gently sloping rear window. The D-pillars, which are also steeply inclined and sit firmly on the rear blisters, underscore the sportiness of the A6 Avant when viewed from the side.

Like the front end, the sculpted rear end with its prominently positioned Audi rings also exudes prestige. The two sleek rear lights with their precise graphics and the continuous light strip emphasize the vehicle's width. They lend the new Audi A6 a sense of presence, as does the vertical brake light flanking the rear. The large diffuser with its eye-catching trim piece rounds off the rear, integrating the tailpipes with their strikingly designed rectangular covers.

A spacious interior

With an overall length of 4,990mm metres, the Audi A6 Avant is 60mm longer than the previous model. The wheelbase of 2,927mm makes for a more comfortable ride on long journeys and contributes to the ample interior space. The A6 Avant measures just under 1,880mm wide without mirrors.

The new switchable panoramic glass roof, optionally available, further enhances the sense of spaciousness. It spans almost the entire cockpit and rear and allows the interior to either be flooded with light or effectively shaded. Nine segments form the basis for various patterns with areas that can be switched on and off to provide full glare protection. The "digital curtain" is operated via a button in the roof module.

The luggage compartment of the new A6 Avant has a capacity of up to 503 litres. Thanks to its width of 1,050mm, two large suitcases can easily fit in side by side. The standard 40:20:40 folding rear seats enable variable loading for items such as ski equipment. When the rear seat backrests are folded down completely, the luggage capacity increases up to 1,534 litres. A rail system, the storage and luggage compartment package, and a partition net are also part of the standard equipment of the A6 Avant and further increase its versatility. The electric tailgate is included as a standard feature. It opens and closes with a foot motion, with a projection light indicating where to "kick."

Business lounge: the interior design philosophy

The interior of the Audi A6 Avant reflects the four characteristic features of the new Audi design philosophy. Firstly, the interior is designed to be "human centric," meaning that it is systematically aligned with the needs of its users. The second special feature is the "digital stage," which is laid out in front of the occupants in the form of the Audi MMI display.

With its "material-driven design," the new Audi A6 fulfils the aspiration for a generous sense of space with a high level of comfort. The clear structure and logical operating concept ensure an overview in all situations and represent the fourth feature, "visual clarity".

The digital stage revolves around the Audi MMI panoramic display and the optional MMI passenger display. The thin free-standing Audi MMI panoramic display has a curved design and OLED technology. It consists of the Audi virtual cockpit with an 11.9-inch display diagonal and the 14.5-inch MMI touch display. Audi complements the digital stage for the front passengers with the 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display (Edition 1 spec only), which is also perfectly integrated into the dashboard design. It enables the front passenger to look up websites and stream video content and also helps when navigating or searching for the nearest fuel station. Thanks to the dynamic privacy mode, distracting content such as videos cannot be viewed from the driver's seat while driving. If the passenger display is not in use or if no passengers are detected, a digital background image is shown.

As part of the optional Sound & Vision pack, the new Audi A6 Avant can be optionally equipped with a new, configurable head-up display (HUD). A wide range of information can be displayed on the HUD, including speed, active assistance systems, navigation instructions, and media information. For the first time, drivers have the option of controlling vehicle and infotainment functions via the head-up display. Thanks to the maximized use of the installation space and the adapted display technology, the visible image area is more than 85 percent larger than before, and the display is significantly more precise.

As a contrast to the digital and technical areas, the new interior of the Audi A6 Avant features a so-called Softwrap application. It extends from door to door across the entire width of the instrument panel, making the interior appear wider. Selected cloths, faux leather, or Dinamica in the door panels and armrests create a comfortable, refined ambiance.

The colours and high-quality materials of the interior are found not only in the Softwrap but also in the seats. The seats, Softwrap, door panels, and armrests are optionally available in sustainable materials such as the fabric Cascade and the microfiber material Dinamica, which are largely made of recycled polyester. The textile cover Cascade is reminiscent of natural materials such as wool and is not additionally dyed. It is partially made from recycled materials such as selvedge and recycled polyester. Dinamica looks and feels like suede, but about half of it is recycled polyester.

The distinct interior of the A6 Avant also makes an impression in the dark. The contoured lighting along the dashboard and in the doors accentuates the width of the interior, while the indirect light below the Audi MMI panorama display and in the centre console creates a visual effect of floating. The high-quality materials in the doors are also stylishly illuminated. And on vehicles with this feature, the Bang & Olufsen logo is even lit up.

As part of the redesigned interior and cockpit to create the digital stage, the dynamic interaction light facilitates communication between the vehicle and its occupants. Consisting of 84 LEDs, it is located below the windshield and is illuminated in a large arc extending from the left to the right A-pillar. In addition to a welcome function, the interaction light also features a special lighting sequence that is activated when the vehicle is locked or unlocked. It also supports safety by displaying the dynamic turn signal, but this only ever serves as an additional display and does not replace the turn signal in the Audi virtual cockpit.

Fuel-efficient and high-performance: MHEV plus technology

At its launch, the new A6 Avant will be available with two different engines in the UK - one petrol and one diesel. The diesel unit features mild hybrid technology (MHEV plus) and is therefore partially electrified. The MHEV plus system supports the combustion-engine vehicle, enhances performance and ride quality, and reduces CO2 emissions. It consists of three main components: a 48-volt battery, a belt alternator starter, and the new powertrain generator with integrated power electronics.

The lithium-ion battery, made of lithium iron phosphate, has a storage capacity of 1.7 kWh. The belt alternator starter's primary function is to start the engine and supply the battery with electrical energy. The powertrain generator enables partially electric driving, provides additional torque, and feeds energy back into the battery during deceleration.

Partially electric driving: MHEV plus technology leverages the advantages of electric driving when parking and manoeuvring. The electric driving components can also be used when driving slowly in the city, in slow-moving traffic, or outside city limits when coasting to the next village. In these situations, the A6 Avant runs solely on the powertrain generator, making it particularly efficient.

A boost of up to 18 kW: MHEV plus technology supports the combustion-engine vehicle, for example when starting up in stop-and-go traffic or when passing. To do this, the powertrain generator produces additional torque up to 230Nm and up to 18 kW (24 PS) of power.

Regeneration of up to 25 kW: When decelerating, the powertrain generator recovers energy and feeds it - up to 25 kW of power - back into the battery (regeneration). The integrated, blending-capable brake control system ensures pressure-free braking and the best possible regeneration, in most cases without the use of the friction brake.

The 48-volt system also enables the use of an electrically driven air-conditioning compressor. The major advantage here is that even when the engine is switched off - for example when coasting or at a red light - the air-conditioning continues to operate at full power, keeping the interior at a comfortable temperature.

Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TFSI 204PS: The entry-level variant with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, has a start-stop system as standard to reduce fuel consumption and is only available with front-wheel drive. It delivers 204 PS and generates a maximum torque of 340Nm. Numerous modifications have taken the efficiency of the newly designed engine to the next level. The 2.0 TFSI uses a modified Miller combustion process that is especially advantageous in partial-load operation. In the Miller cycle, the intake valves close early, which increases the engine's efficiency. The 2.0 TFSI also has a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG). This improves the responsiveness and efficiency of the direct injection engine. The VTG enables smoother and more agile torque build-up at low engine speeds. The 2.0 TFSI is always coupled to the seven-speed S tronic, a fast and smooth-shifting dual-clutch transmission.

Audi A6 Avant 2.0 TDI 204PS: The 2.0 TDI delivers 204 PS and a maximum torque of 400Nm. To increase efficiency and comfort, the engine is partially electrified with MHEV plus technology and equipped with a 48-volt electrical system. Partially electric driving and high energy recovery reduce carbon emissions. The 48-volt belt alternator starter also increases the comfort of the TDI by starting the engine quietly. The vehicle responds more quickly when setting off and is noticeably more agile. The 2.0 TDI is fitted with a dual-clutch transmission and quattro ultra all-wheel drive.

Audi of America announced the U.S. offer structure and technical details for the all-new A6 and S6 Sportback e-tron. the all-new model stands out as the most aerodynamic and longest-range BEV within the Audi line-up. An elegant interior and exterior give the A6 e-tron model line a distinctive look combined with the functionality of its Sportback design. The latest MMI® system provides sharp graphics, fast processing times and access to user-friendly technologies and controls via the Audi digital stage.

Closely resembling the concept, first shown in 2021, the all-new A6 Sportback e-tron extends the efficiency gains born out of the Premium Platform Electric's (PPE) first application - the Q6 e-tron SUV, which was introduced to the U.S. market in late 2024. Thanks to an incredibly aerodynamic 0.23 Cd, the rear-wheel drive Audi A6 Sportback e-tron boasts an EPA-estimated 392 miles of range on a single charge when equipped with the ultra® package.

Going further on a single charge is only part of the efficiency story for the A6 Sportback e-tron. Foundational to the PPE is the battery pack's ability to maintain high input levels of charging power across the charging curve with an incredibly flat profile throughout the charging process when the battery has been appropriately pre-conditioned. Audi's first "low-floor" model built on the PPE is capable of charging its 94.4 net kWh battery at DC fast charge speeds of up to 270kW. With the help of an advanced thermal management system, the A6 Sportback e-tron can achieve 10-80% battery capacity recharging in as little as 21 minutes, helping get drivers back on the road quicker when using DC fast charge services.

The all-new design of the A6 Sportback e-tron family is offered exclusively in a Sportback body style for North American markets. The sweeping silhouette, while aerodynamic and visually appealing, also serves functional purposes. Featuring the ability to fully and independently fold flat the 40:20:40 second row of seats, up to 39.9 cubic feet of interior storage space can be achieved. A load area up to 6 feet 2 inches deep is also possible thanks to the liftgate design of the rear hatch and convenience of the fold flat second row and provides excellent functionality whether for passengers or for ample luggage and other cargo.

Inside, the driver-oriented cockpit features the wrap-around Audi digital stage. Consisting of an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit instrument display and 14.5-inch center MMI screen, drivers have the option of engaging with content using Audi's virtual assistant through voice commands, or via the feedback of the touchscreen itself. Both screens feature OLED technology which creates true-blacks and the impression of one cohesive wrap around screen directly within reach (and eyesight) of the driver. The digital stage can be further extended with an optional 10.9-inch MMI passenger display, perfectly integrated into the dashboard design. Thanks to active privacy mode, the front-seat passenger can enjoy content downloaded through the Audi App store such as movies, streaming content or games, without distracting the driver while the vehicle is in motion. In addition to infotainment apps, the display also lets the passenger assist the driver with navigation or finding a parking space. Digital decor is displayed as a background image if the passenger display is not used or if no passenger is detected.

Buyers also have the option of equipping their cars with optional headrest integrated speakers that provide an excellent audio experience, provide navigation instructions to avoid disturbing passengers that may be sleeping, and minimize interruption to passenger conversations. All Audi A6 and S6 Sportback e-tron models feature a panoramic glass sunroof with switchable transparency as standard.

The A6 Sportback e-tron model family consists of three models, with three different power outputs; the single motor rear-wheel drive A6 Sportback e-tron, the dual motor A6 Sportback e-tron quattro, and the S6 Sportback e-tron which blends dynamic performance and luxury together seamlessly.

The A6 e-tron model family arrives in U.S. dealers in the summer of 2025.

The A6 e-tron model family is a core part of Audi's strategy to meet customers where they are in the shift to electric mobility and provide products which make the transition from combustion power as seamless as possible. The new model is one of more than 20 all-new or significantly redesigned offerings from the brand - half of which are electric, and half of which are combustion - which are anticipated to be introduced over the next two years as part of the largest product initiative in the brand's history.

Powerful, compact, and highly efficient electric motors and a lithium-ion battery newly developed for the PPE consisting of twelve modules and 180 prismatic cells with a total gross capacity of 100 kWh (94.4 kWh net) ensure an EPA-estimated range of 392 miles for A6 Sportback e-tron models equipped with the available ultra package.

With a system output of up to 456 horsepower with launch control in the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron quattro, the new model provides the sporty driving experience Audi is known for. The Audi A6 Sportback e-tron quattro accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph, achieving an EPA-estimated range of 377 miles when equipped with the available ultra package.

The Audi S6 Sportback e-tron provides a system output of 543 horsepower with launch control, achieving an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles when equipped with 20-inch wheels. The S6 Sportback e-tron accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and has a top speed of 149 mph.

Thanks to 800-volt technology and a maximum DC charging capacity of 270 kW as standard, short charging stops are possible with the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron. This means the A6 Sportback e-tron quattro can be recharged from 10-80% at an appropriate DC fast charging station in as little as 21 minutes. Intelligent high-performance and predictive thermal management are key components of this impressive charging performance. The A6 Sportback e-tron is equipped with Audi Plug & Charge. At compatible Electrify America charging stations, when the charging cable is plugged in the charging process is activated automatically.

If a charging station works with 400-volt technology, the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron can use bank charging. To enable this, the 800-volt battery is split into two banks, each with a voltage of 400 volts, which can then be charged in parallel with up to 135 kW. AC charging with up to 9.6 kW (240V @ 40A) is possible at standard home chargers.

The advanced recuperation (regenerative braking) system is an important component contributing to the efficiency and range of the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron. This system can handle approximately 95 percent of everyday braking processes. The Audi A6 Sportback e-tron recuperates up to 220 kW under braking depending on the battery's temperature and state of charge. On quattro® equipped models, recuperation occurs on the front and rear axles, with minor deceleration handled by the rear axle for efficiency reasons. In addition, a higher regenerative braking performance is possible on the rear axle due to the more powerful electric motor.

The Integrated Brake System that is familiar in previous e-tron models has been enhanced significantly as part of the PPE. For the first time, the described axle-specific brake blending between the mechanical friction brake and regenerative braking via the electric motors is possible.

As is typical for Audi, the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron also offers the option of two-stage recuperation, which can be adjusted using the paddles on the steering wheel. Coasting is also possible. Here, the vehicle rolls without additional drag when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal. Drivers also have the option of engaging the "B" driving mode instead of "D." The "B" driving mode essentially engages single pedal driving by engaging the strongest recuperation deceleration. With an anticipatory driving style, almost all deceleration can be managed without pressing the brake pedal in driving mode "B".

RennSport fans rejoice. You may soon have another high-performance Audi option for sale at your local dealer. Spy photographers continue to nab evidence of a new super sporty sedan. Audi appears eager to add an M5 four-door fighter to its ranks, which means we could soon see the return of the RS6 in super sedan guise.

Spy photos of the upcoming four-door show that Audi is nearly ready to bring the RS6 sedan back to the market. The Drive recently caught an example in action. The prototype in question wears the familiar signs of RS6 styling, from the wheels out back to the oval tailpipes.

Yes, it’s a bummer that Audi is killing off the wonderful RS7. The Performance version delivered tremendous power and speed in an almost shockingly poised manner. Here’s to hoping a new RS6 sedan could do the same.

There’s really no reason to suspect that wouldn’t be the case. After all, Audi has been steadily refining and improving the RS6 Avant. The mega wagon remains a favorite among enthusiasts. Pressure from the current M5 Touring, future Mercedes-AMG E63, and even the recently deceased Panamera Sport Turismo forced Audi to continually upgrade its own super wagon.

All of that knowledge gleaned means we should expect an RS6 sedan ready to duke it out for high-performance executive shuttle supremacy. In fact, rumors swirl with talk of horsepower figures north of the 700 mark.

What’s the plan to develop that power? We’re guessing that Audi will pair its twin-turbocharged V-8 engines with a bit of electrical assistance. If this means a plugin-hybrid RS6, then so be it. In fact, that could be a way for Audi to meet fuel economy targets while also delivering crushing performance.

The added weight and complexity shouldn’t prove too big an issue. An RS6, in sedan or wagon form, has never been a lightweight sports car. These are luxurious freight trains capable of covering long distances in a short amount of time. And the cars do so in refined comfort. A potential PHEV RS6 doesn’t change that mission. In fact, such a powertrain setup lends itself to better around-town performance.

I just hope that the inclusion of an RS6 sedan in the mix doesn’t affect Audi’s decision to continue offering a wagon in the States. The BMW M5 Touring has proven to be a strong seller in the segment. Mercedes continues to prep its upcoming E63 successor. Porsche still offers a wagon version of its Taycan. Audi needs to stay in the fight and keep hope alive for all of us lovers of the longroof.

Like you, we’re fans of V8-powered wagons. The Audi RS6 is just plain cool (even if it does weigh as much as a small locomotive), and we’ve been heartened by recent hints from Audi that the formula is here to stay. Needless to say, we’re even more encouraged by new spy photos of the German bruiser’s replacement.

And if that wasn’t cool enough by itself, our spies brought us more welcome news this morning: The wagon isn’t the only RS6 that will return for 2027; the sedan’s coming back too! Your author is a card-carrying (not to mention Cadillac-owning) member of the sport sedan gang, so color me particularly intrigued.

We’ve already spotted the new RS6 Avant twice now—once for each of the super-wagon‘s powertrain variants (yes, the electric model is apparently still in the pipeline). One glance at this prototype reveals it for the RS variant that it is. The wheel and brake package alone is a pretty solid giveaway, but the punched-out fenders and open vents matched by oval exhaust tips in the rear really drive this one home. And, I’ve gotta say, it looks refreshingly compact. That’s 2025 for you.

Am I crazy, or is there a little early-2000s Subaru Legacy in that rear end? And I mean that in a good way; the 2006 Spec.B was a classy design with clean lines and none of Subie’s usually over-the-top rally-car shenanigans. If I cock my head a little more, I see a little Saab back there too.

Due to Audi’s typical launch cadence, it could be another year or two before we see any of these variants stateside—and let’s be honest, the chances of the electric model coming here are slim to zero.

There was a time when the new RS6 Avant was expected to be electric-only, but the world being what it is, that strategy is completely out the window. We reported back in June that Audi would likely go with a plug-in hybrid variant of its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Since both gas-powered prototypes have borne decals indicating that they have hybrid batteries on board, that looks like a done deal.

The Audi A6 arrives as all-new for the 2026 model year, as the brand's ninth-generation upper mid-sized luxury sedan. Synthesizing driving precision and everyday refinement as a perfect balance between sportiness and comfort, the all-new A6 sedan redefines the business class and embodies the driving experience for which the A6 model line is best known. Now offered in only one drivetrain configuration - a 3.0L TFSI® V6 with standard quattro all-wheel drive - an available Sport plus package brings S model dynamics and equipment to the core A6 model line.

Embodying the most quintessential parts of the Audi brand's DNA, the 2026 A6 Sedan arrives in the U.S. with an all-new modern and sophisticated design inside and out. Engine performance has been improved over the previous model and, with its enhanced dynamic capabilities, the all-new A6 is both quicker and better handling. The latest driver-centric infotainment and lighting technologies have also been incorporated including the handsome Audi digital stage MMI and customizable light signatures. The all-new A6 benefits from enhanced refinement over previous generations, which also make it quieter and more comfortable.

Taken in totality, the changes made to the ninth-generation A6 mark a step change for the upper mid-size business segment and redefine Audi brand DNA for a new generation of luxury owners; simultaneously improving both driver engagement with the road and extending refinement for everyday driving.

Available in the second quarter of 2026, the 2026 Audi A6 sees significant mid-model-year enhancements in technology, design and connectivity. In addition to its content upgrades, every new 2026 model includes Audi Signature Care scheduled maintenance included for the first three years/30,000 miles of ownership (whichever occurs first), providing customers with additional value and peace of mind