Audi will launch the new estate version of the A6 – badged, inevitably, Audi A6 Avant – in autumn 2011. Our new spy photos and computer renderings reveal the wagon A6 in lightly disguised trim.
We expect the A6 Avant to make its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in September, with UK sales due in October/November 2011.
What engines will be available in the new Audi A6 Avant?
The engine line-up at launch will mirror that of the A6 saloon, pointing to:
• 2.0 TDI 175bhp
• 3.0 TDI Quattro 201bhp or 242bhp
• 3.0 TFSI Quattro 296bhp
The Avant makes up a large proportion of A6 sales, at 43% over here. Audi UK doesn’t expect that mix to change with the new model.
Over the coming months, expect the A6 engine range to swell considerably. Audi is unlikely to let a chance to fill another micro niche go to waste.
However, we hear that the hybrid Audi A6 is unlikely to come to the UK for a while yet. Its relative expense versus its economy gains mean it remains more aimed at the US and other petrol-centric markets.
Any clever tricks up the new A6 Avant’s sleeve?
It’s going to be evolution more than revolution, as our spy photos prove. Despite the swirly whirly disguise, it’s clear to see this will be a sleek, typical executive sector estate, with the emphasis on style over outright carrying capacity.
There are no plans to offer a third row of seats, as the A6 used to do. Audi now encourages such buyers to trade up to the Q7 behemoth.