Audi have managed to make the classy new A6 Avant lighter and more economical than its predecessor, but without compromising boot capacity.
Cabin space and legroom is actually increased thanks to a 6cm longer wheelbase, but as before boot space is 565 litres. This corresponds exactly with the boot space offered by the BMW 5-Series Touring, but is some way off the 690 litres found in the Mercedes E-Class Estate, although the A6 is considerably lighter than its three-pointed-star rival thanks to its 20% aluminium mix for the bodywork. The four-cylinder diesel A6 is 205kg lighter than the Merc, and the 2.0-litre TDI provides combined returns of 56.4mpg while giving off CO2 emissions of 132g/km. With the rear seat down the boot capacity grows to 1,680 litres.
There will be a choice of two petrol and four diesel engines. A supercharged 296bhp 3.0-litre V6 petrol engines heads the list, but later in the year will be topped by a twin-turbo 313bhp 3.0 TDI that will power the Avant from 0-62mph in just 5.4 seconds.
Power will be delivered to either the front or all four wheels by a transmission that comes in three possible guises. You can choose from a six-speed manual gearbox, a dual-clutch S-tronic, or an eight-speed auto.
Externally, the seventh incarnation of the model shuns major design changes, with only subtle detail changes to its successful formula. The car comes as standard with twin exhausts, silver roof rails, and a small spoiler. 3D-effect front and rear LED light clusters can be added to give an extra touch of class. Other new features included a boot which opens automatically when triggered by waving a foot under the bumper, and an option of a Google-linked on board internet system.
The entry level for the new A6 Avant will be the front-wheel-drive 2.0-litre TDI which will be priced at around the £32,000 mark when it goes on sale toward the end of July.
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