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Business class travel at its best: The new A6 Saloon

Byadmin

May 1, 2025 #Audi
  • Progressive premium-class model sets standards in design and aerodynamics: 0.23 drag coefficient is the best ever achieved by an ICE-equipped Audi
  • Excellent qualities for everyday driving and long distances: cutting-edge suspension technologies and impressive aeroacoustics
  • Dynamic, comfortable, efficient: MHEV plus mild hybrid technology enables partially electric driving and enhances driving performance
  • Two engine options available from launch: 2.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI
  • UK line-up comprises Sport, S line, and Edition 1 specifications
  • On sale from May 13, 2025 priced from £50,560 (OTR) with first deliveries due start of July
  • For additional information please visit https://press.audi.co.uk/en-gb/

Ingolstadt/Neckarsulm, April 15, 2025 – Audi is expanding its A6 model series with an elegant saloon that raises the bar for design, innovation, aerodynamics and comfort. The streamlined body of the new A6 Saloon achieves the lowest drag coefficient ever recorded by a series-production Audi model with a combustion engine, creating the optimal environment for a new generation of even more efficient TFSI and TDI engines. Suspension options that strike an exceptional balance between comfort and control, and a wealth of advanced new infotainment and driver assistance technologies, also contribute to a driving experience that brings the A6 emphatically back to the fore in its class. The A6 Saloon goes on sale in the UK on May 13, 2025 with Sport, S line and Edition 1 specification options priced from £50,560 (OTR), and will arrive with its first customers in start of July. 

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner said: “The new Audi A6 Saloon unites an elegant, 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 modernisation 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 Saloon is also based on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), and integrates the latest E³ 1.2 electronics architecture providing modern connectivity, updates and digitalisation features.

Elegant and dynamic: exterior design and aerodynamics
The elegant, reductive look of the new A6 Saloon typifies contemporary Audi design. The curve of the windows’ upper contour is a defining feature of the streamlined body, as is the striking front end with its sleek headlights, prominently positioned Audi rings and large, low-set Singleframe grille. It incorporates a sophisticated airflow concept that makes a significant contribution to the saloon’s drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.23, which stands as the best value ever achieved by a series-production model with a combustion engine in Audi history.

At the front, side air intakes or ‘air curtains’ achieve better airflow and give the saloon a powerful appearance, while two separately controllable cool-air intakes behind the Singleframe grille also channel air as effectively as possible around the engine bay. To harness the full potential of this technology, Audi has optimised the seal between the bumper and the cooling unit, reducing airflow losses in this area by up to 70 percent. A spoiler in the front bumper also reduces front-axle lift and, together with panels on the underbody, ensures controlled airflow under the vehicle.

Like the front end, the elongated and slightly upward-sloping rear end also conveys prestige. The two rear lights with their precise graphics and the continuous light strip lend the new A6 Saloon a sense of presence, as does the vertical brake light.

The special shape of the notchback also contributes significantly to the vehicle’s outstanding aerodynamics. The sharp curvature of the tailgate and the large, wide diffuser ensure an ideal balance between lift at the rear axle and drag, which enhances driving dynamics.

Aeroacoustic performance is also exemplary in the new A6 Saloon. Suppression of noise in the vehicle has been improved by up to 30 percent compared to the previous model, thanks to detail enhancements such as more tightly sealed windows and optimised door seals. Newly developed engine and transmission mount bushings make for a smoother and quieter ride, and the shape of the transmission gear teeth has also been optimised, which benefits the acoustics of the S tronic as well. Even the tyres fitted to wheels of 19 inches in diameter or above have been acoustically fine-tuned by special noise absorbers – foam rings on the inside of the tyre that reduce air vibrations there and thus have a positive effect on noise levels.

Digital and personalised: lighting technology
Advanced lighting technology makes a significant contribution to greater road safety and is an essential part of the Audi DNA. This is evident in the design of the advanced, digitized headlights and rear lights incorporated in the new A6 Saloon, which reflect typical Audi aesthetics and give drivers the opportunity to customise the appearance of their car according to their own preferences. At the same time, the digital lighting display provides innovative functions that improve communication with other road users.

As standard in the UK, the A6 Saloon features Matrix LED headlights made up of 48 individual LED segments per headlight. They are characterised by a hexagon-perforated stainless-steel screen that conceals the digital daytime running lights and gives them an even more striking appearance.

With a total of seven digital light signatures at the front and rear – several of which are designed as active signatures in which individual segments intelligently brighten up and dim down – the new A6 Saloon offers considerable scope for personalisation.

With the coming-home and leaving-home function, individual LED segments are activated at intervals of just a few milliseconds one after the other, creating a new and futuristic-looking lighting sequence even when stationary.

Lots of choice: ten colours, progressive wheels
Drivers can choose between 10 colours for the A6, including the solid finish Arkona White. Glacier White, Mythos Black, Grenadine Red, Florett Silver, Firmament Blue, Ascari Blue, and Chronos Grey are available as metallic finishes, along with a new colour option called Midnight Green. The selection is rounded off with pearl effect Daytona Grey.

When it comes to wheels, Audi offers a wide selection of progressive designs from 18 to 21 inches for the A6 Saloon. In the UK, 18-inch 5-twin-spoke wheels are standard for Sport models, and S line versions step up to a 19-inch 5-arm design in platinum grey. Top spec Edition 1 models are equipped with a 20-inch 5-arm alloy wheel finished in Graphite grey with a gloss turned finish; a 21-inch wheel is available as an option.

Various exclusive Audi options will also enable even more customisation in the A6 Saloon. In addition to exclusive exterior colours, these include new interior and leather colours.

Business lounge: the interior design philosophy
The interior of the A6 Saloon epitomises the new Audi design philosophy, combining a ‘human- centric’ and ‘material-driven’ approach that prioritises space, comfort and the specific needs of occupants with ‘visual clarity’ achieved through clear menu structures and a logical operating concept.

The digital stage is at the heart of the design. Its focal point is the Audi MMI panoramic display – a thin, free-standing display with a curved shape using OLED technology. It consists of the Audi virtual cockpit with an 11.9-inch screen and the 14.5-inch MMI touch screen.

In Edition 1 models, these are complemented by a 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display, which is also perfectly integrated into the dashboard design. It enables the front passenger to access websites and stream video content and also helps when navigating or searching for fuel stations. 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 Saloon 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 its space-efficient installation and 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 Saloon features a Softwrap that extends from door to door across the entire width of the instrument panel. It has the effect of making the interior appear wider, and also of further refining its inherently comfortable, premium ambiance in combination with selected high-grade cloths, leather-effect materials and technical fabrics such as Cascade textile and Dinamica microfibre, which are partially made from recycled materials such as polyester.

The distinct interior of the A6 Saloon 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 panoramic display and in the centre console creates a floating effect. The high-quality materials in the doors are also attractively illuminated.

As part of the redesigned interior concept, a dynamic interaction light facilitates communication between the vehicle and its occupants. Consisting of 84 LEDs, it is located below the windscreen 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 an additional dynamic turn signal.

A spacious interior
With an overall length of 4,990mm, the Audi A6 Saloon is 60mm longer than its predecessor. Its wheelbase of 2,927mm makes for a more comfortable ride on long journeys and contributes to the ample interior space. The A6 Saloon is just under 1,880mm wide without mirrors. 

The new switchable panoramic glass roof which is optionally available across the range further enhances the spacious feel. It spans almost the entire cockpit and rear and allows the interior to either be flooded with light or effectively shaded. Six 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 Saloon has a capacity of up to 492 litres, depending on version. 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. The storage and luggage compartment package also comes as standard – the tailgate can be opened and closed with a foot motion, with a projection light indicating where to “kick.”.

Exceptional features: exceptional experience
Many comfort-enhancing features make travelling in the A6 Saloon a memorable experience. The sophisticated aeroacoustics also enrich audio enjoyment, especially with the premium 3D sound system from Bang & Olufsen, which comes as part of the optional Sound & Vision pack. Two versions are available – one with 16 speakers and a 685-watt total output which forms part of the pack option for Sport and Edition 1 variants, and a top-of-the-line 20-speaker version with 810 watts which is included in the pack for S line and Edition 1 models. This version is equipped with two additional speakers in each of the front headrests, which take the audio experience to a new level. They not only create a personal surround sound environment but also enable navigation prompts and phone calls to be directed specifically to the driver.

Fuel-efficient and high-performance: MHEV plus technology
At launch in the UK, the new A6 Saloon will be available with two engines – one TFSI petrol and one TDI diesel. The diesel unit features mild hybrid technology (MHEV plus) and is therefore partially electrified. The MHEV plus system supports the combustion engine, enhancing performance and refinement and reducing 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. In these situations, the A6 Saloon runs solely on the powertrain generator, making it particularly efficient.

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

2.0 TFSI 4-cylinder 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 available exclusively with front-wheel drive. It delivers 204PS 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. 

2.0 TDI 4-cylinder 204PS: The 2.0 TDI delivers 204PS 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. 

Technical data A6 Saloon TFSI 204PS A6 Saloon TDI quattro 204PS
Engine Four-cylinder turbo petrol engine
with start/stop
Four-cylinder turbo diesel engine
with MHEV plus
Displacement 1,984 1,968
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive quattro
Power output (PS) 204 204
Max torque (Nm) 340 400
Additional electric power (PS / Nm) 24 / 230
0-62mph 8.2 6.9
Max speed (mph) 151 150
CO2 emissions, combined, g/km 161 (Sport), 160 (S line), 167 (Edition 1) 135 (Sport), 135 (S line), 143 (Edition 1)

The perfect blend of agility and comfort: the suspension
A particular highlight of the new A6 Saloon is its extremely comfortable ride, which comes into its own on longer journeys. The front and rear axles use a five-link design, largely made of aluminium. Two subframes – the front being rigidly mounted and the rear hydraulically mounted – connect the control arms to the body.

Three suspension setups are available for UK models:

  • Standard suspension, designed to be even more comfortable than its predecessor. This is standard on Sport specification.
  • Sport suspension, which lowers the body by 20mm for distinctly sporty handling, is included with S line and Edition 1 specifications.
  • Adaptive air suspension with electronically controlled damping, which can prioritise ride comfort or handling agility, is an optional extra on quattro specified models.

The optional adaptive air suspension with adjustable damping on all four wheels regulates the body height and shock absorption. The adaptive air suspension automatically balances out the vehicle load, ensuring the car stays level. Compared to the standard suspension, the A6 Saloon rides 20mm lower in normal mode (balanced, comfort, and efficiency mode), effectively matching the configuration of the sports suspension. In dynamic mode, the ride height is lowered by a further 10mm for a more dynamic driving feel.

To reduce drag, the body drops to the lower level at speeds above 75mph even in balanced and efficiency modes. In contrast, the lift function raises the A6 Saloon by 20mm above the normal level and can now be used up to a speed of 53mph. This function ensures safety and forward momentum even in challenging driving conditions, such as on snowy or uneven roads.

The Audi drive select dynamic handling system can be used to fine-tune the vehicle’s steering and drivetrain settings. The distinctions between the driving modes have been noticeably increased: handling in dynamic mode is tighter and sportier, while comfort mode is designed for smooth, comfortable driving on long journeys. And thanks to the Audi assistant, the adaptive air suspension can now be operated by voice control for the first time in the A6, with simple commands like “raise the vehicle” or “lower the air suspension.”

Progressive and efficient: quattro all-wheel drive
In the UK, the all-wheel-drive system quattro ultra is standard with the 2.0 TDI 204PS engine variant. It flexibly distributes torque to maximise efficiency while also providing all the benefits of quattro for even greater driving safety and dynamics. An electronically controlled multi-plate clutch distributes torque between the front and rear axles over a wide range, as required by the specific driving situation. For optimal fuel efficiency, the rear axle of the quattro ultra is automatically decoupled under partial load if the driving situation permits this. When taking corners dynamically, accelerating sharply, or when the friction coefficient of the road surface requires it, the quattro system’s electronically controlled multi-plate clutch connects the front and rear axles and distributes the tractive force flexibly to where it is needed. Under hard acceleration out of a corner, power is distributed more towards the rear. In this driving situation, the power distribution between the front and rear axles is around 30:70.

Perfectly in tune: highly connected control system with brake torque vectoring
Compared to its predecessor, Audi has improved the interplay between the suspension control and drive systems in the new A6 Saloon. The integrated brake control system, the controlled dampers, and the engine management system work together even faster and more precisely. The results can be felt not only in the way the car handles corners, but also in the quality of its ride.

Thanks to brake torque vectoring – wheel-selective momentum control – the new A6 Saloon has an even sharper cornering attitude. Brake torque vectoring constantly monitors the current driving situation and counteracts any understeer; when the wheels on the inside of the bend lose traction, they are gently braked. Due to this targeted braking intervention and the resulting difference in propulsive forces, the Audi A6 steers more directly and reacts more immediately to the given situation. Its handling is consequently more precise, safer, and more agile.

Improved handling: progressive steering
The reworked and now more direct steering contributes significantly to the controlled yet dynamic handling of the new A6 Saloon. Compared to its predecessor, the entire path from the steering wheel to the wheels is designed to be stiffer. This includes the torsion bar at the steering gear, the rigidly bolted steering rack, and the stiffer control arm bushings. Camber on the front axle has also been slightly increased.

All in all, these measures result in a noticeably improved steering response and more feedback from the road, which makes for more precise and nimble vehicle handling.

The A6 Saloon features electromechanical progressive steering as standard. The steering ratio varies depending on the steering angle: at small steering angles, when on the motorway for example, the steering is more indirect to prevent any nervous behaviour from influencing the steering. At larger steering angles, the ratio becomes increasingly direct, reducing the amount of physical effort required to steer in city traffic and when parking. The Audi drive select dynamic handling system can be used to vary the steering characteristics – specifically steering weight – in several modes.

A first for the A6: integrated brake control system
The A6 uses an integrated, blending-capable brake control system (iBRS). With this brake-by-wire technology, the brake pedal and brake hydraulics are completely decoupled. In the 2.0 TDI with MHEV plus technology, the system calculates whether the desired braking effect can be achieved by regenerative braking using the electric motor – that is, the powertrain generator – or whether the friction brakes on the front and rear axles must also be activated. 

In a fraction of a second, the control unit calculates how much braking force needs to be produced by the friction brakes. A piston in the brake hydraulics then applies the necessary pressure. Brake feel remains the same as the pedal is depressed, and the transition between regenerative and friction braking is imperceptibly smooth, with braking forces remaining constant. Thanks to the electrohydraulic actuation, the system very precisely builds up the brake pressure for the wheel brakes and about twice as fast as a conventional brake system. When automatic emergency braking is activated, the maximum brake pressure is reached in just 150 milliseconds.

Connected: infotainment with ChatGPT
The new A6 Saloon uses Android Automotive OS as its operating system for the infotainment system. The vehicle updates all content via over-the-air updates. This is how Audi ensures that all connect services always remain current.

Numerous third-party apps including Spotify, YouTube, and news services can be downloaded from the Audi application store, which, like the smartphone interface, is standard. These are integrated directly into the MMI – a smartphone is not required for either downloading or using the interface. The Audi smartphone interface transfers the content from the smartphone directly to the vehicle’s infotainment system. This makes it possible to conveniently control the navigation, telephone, music, and selected third-party apps via the MMI touch display and voice control system. Smartphones can be charged using the standard telephone tray with inductive charging.

With the improved and more intuitive touchscreen operation, customers can reap the benefits of the newly designed operating and display concept as fully as possible. Alternatively, numerous vehicle functions can be operated with the upgraded voice control. The voice-controlled Audi assistant provides support and learns in the process. To answer queries as thoroughly as possible, the Audi assistant accesses additional content from the internet, including weather data and general information.

By connecting to ChatGPT (provided by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service) customers can access AI-based knowledge using everyday speech prompts. The responses generated are tailored to each question and read out individually. The Audi assistant automatically determines whether it should perform a specific vehicle function or answer a query on a different topic. If the Audi assistant is unable to answer a question, it seamlessly accesses ChatGPT without any noticeable interruption for the occupants.

More ease and safety: the driver assistance systems
The new Audi A6 Saloon is equipped with numerous modern driver assistance systems as standard. These systems increase convenience and safety on every journey by making the driver’s job easier and taking over important tasks. The “Drive and Park” assistance package is a standard feature. It includes adaptive cruise control, a speed limiter that responds to traffic signs, traffic sign recognition, a rear-view camera, and park assist plus. Other standard features include park assist plus with distance display, lane departure warning, cross-traffic assist, swerve assist, front turn assist, and the emergency brake assistant.

Production, launch, and pricing
Like its predecessors, the new Audi A6 Saloon will be built at the Neckarsulm plant, which also manufactures the new A5 series and has been modernised and expanded accordingly. Numerous innovations in paintwork, body construction, and automation are already being used for the new A5 and A6 models.

UK pricing and specifications (OTR)  
A6 Saloon TFSI 204PS Sport   £50,560
A6 Saloon TFSI 204PS S line     £53,360
A6 Saloon TFSI 204PS Edition 1 £58,260
   
A6 Saloon TDI quattro 204PS Sport   £54,830
A6 Saloon TDI quattro 204PS S line     £57,630
A6 Saloon TDI quattro 204PS Edition 1   £62,530

 

A6 Saloon Sport

  • 18-inch 5-twin spoke wheels, 225/55 R18 tyres
  • Standard suspension
  • Sport exterior (bumpers, grille, inlets, diffuser)
  • LED headlights plus with matrix functionality  
  • LED rear lights pro
  • Body coloured, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors
  • White rhombus logo projection light in exterior mirrors
  • Rear and side windows with heat-insulating glazing
  • Windscreen with heat insulating and acoustic glazing
  • Standard front seats in twin leather
  • 4-way lumbar support for the front seats – electrically adjustable and heated
  • Rear seat bench, split-folded 40:20:40 or fully collapsible
  • 4-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning
  • Twin-spoke leather steering wheel with multifunction and shift paddles
  • Manual steering wheel adjustment
  • Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
  • Centre armrest, front- adjustable angle with four settings
  • Wraparound interior elements in artificial leather
  • Upper and lower interior elements in leatherette with contrasting stitching
  • Ambient lighting package plus
  • MMI navigation plus with 11.9-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit plus and 14.5-inch OLED touch display
  • Audi sound system, 10 loudspeakers
  • Wireless phone charging
  • Audi application store and smartphone interface
  • USB ports with charging function
  • DAB digital radio
  • Audi connect navigation & infotainment
  • Audi assistant
  • Hill hold assist
  • Surround view cameras
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Parking system plus with distance display
  • Park assist plus
  • Lane departure warning
  • Camera based traffic sign recognition
  • Swerve assist and turn assist
  • Front cross traffic assist
  • Front emergency brake assist
  • Traffic sign-based speed limiter
  • Anti-theft alarm
  • Digital key
  • Convenience key with safelock

A6 Saloon S line (over Sport specification)

  • 19-inch 5-arm platinum grey wheels, 245/45 R19 tyres
  • Sport suspension (-20mm lower ride height)
  • S line exterior
  • Privacy glass
  • Door sill trims with aluminium inlays, illuminated at the front
  • Front sport seats in twin leather with embossed ‘S’ with waterfall pattern
  • Inlays, matt brushed aluminium with linear embossing, anthracite
  • Stainless steel pedals and footrest
  • Sport leather steering wheel, 3-spoke, flat top and bottom, with multifunction and shift paddles
  • Steering wheel trim in chrome look, S emblem, steering wheel grips in perforated leather and contrasting stitching
  • Headlining in cloth, black

A6 Saloon Edition 1 (over S line specification)

  • 20-inch 5-arm wheels, Graphite grey, gloss turned finish, 255/40 R20 tyres
  • Black Exterior package
  • Black door handle inserts
  • Exhaust-pipe in dark chrome
  • Brake callipers in red
  • Front sport seats in Dinamica/ leather with embossed ‘S’ with waterfall pattern
  • Upper and lower interior elements, Dinamica microfibre
  • Lane departure warning with emergency assist
  • Side assist and exit warning, rear cross-traffic assist and rear turn assist
  • Proactive occupant protection front, side and rear
  • Side airbags, front and rear with head airbag system and interaction airbag

By admin