New Audi A6 and S6 models announced

Measuring in at 4.94m long, 1.89m wide and 1.46m high the new A6, available in 4 colours, has grown slightly while incorporating Audi’s latest design language. Upfront on the A6 40 TDI you will find new Matrix LED headlights and dynamic indicators situated above the contoured air inlets while the  A6 45 TDI and S6 TFSI gets the HD Matrix LED technology with high-resolution, dynamically illuminating high beam option. At the rear, all models receive LED taillights which are garnished with a chrome strip extending the full width of the vehicle. In addition to dynamically styled front trim, wide sills and a wide rear diffuser with four tailpipes, the S6 also features an integrated boot spoiler and dark chrome and aluminium finishes on front and rear features. In all four corners, the A6 range comes with 18-inch wheels as standard although on the A6 40 and 45 TDI models you can opt for a wheel size of up to 21-inch. The S6 comes standard with a 20-inch wheel, with two different 21-inch wheel designs on option.

Moving to the interior you will notice an end-to-end digitalization theme with the facia and centre console fitted with a 10.1-inch screen at the top and an 8.6-inch display below. The top screen allows for the occupants to control and access the MMI touch operating system and the infotainment functions and is fully customizable with shortcuts freely created and moved into position, similar to that of a smartphone screen. With the customizable options, the lower screen primarily focuses on climate control and favourites such as phone numbers, radio stations or navigation destinations.

Also, the driver now enjoys a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster known as the Audi virtual cockpit. The virtual cockpit includes MMI navigation plus as standard on the A6 range. Operation of the cluster is achieved via the multifunction buttons on the steering wheel but includes a self-learning function which will make use more convenient over some time. Optional is a head-up display which projects information relevant to the driver into the driver’s field of view on the windshield, for instance, a detailed map for the navigation. Besides the tactile feedback screens, the driver has the option to utilize the online voice control system to activate and adjust functions such as the air conditioning system and navigation. Standard on the S6 is a 705 watts Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, boasting 16 loudspeakers and 3D sound functionality, this system is optionally available for the A6 40 TDI.

The new A6 and S6 derivatives include the adaptive cruise assist, which functions as both an adaptive cruise control system and swerve and turn assist which assists the driver in manoeuvring the vehicle effectively. For an added pedestrian, animal and vehicle awareness, the A6 includes night vision assistant which uses an infrared camera and reacts to the heat given off by objects. Displayed in black and white visuals, the information can be viewed in the instrument cluster or the Audi virtual cockpit. Leather upholstery and electric seats are standard on the A6 although the S6 comes fitted with sports seats and has S sport seats on offer optionally.

Under the bonnet of the A6 40 TDI is a 2.0-litre TDI motor developing 140 kW and 400 N.m of torque while the 45 TDI comes fitted with a 3.0-litre TDI developing 183 kW and 600 N.m of torque. The S6, however, features a 2.9-litre TFSI engine producing 331 kW and 600 N.m of torque. The 40 TDI variant comes standard with a seven-speed S tronic transmission where the V6 diesel motor in the 45 TDI derivatives comes mated to an eight-speed tiptronic. The power of the 45TDI and S6 TFSI is sent to a quattro all-wheel drive as standard. The S6, in addition to the six-cylinder power plant, comes with a mild hybrid system. The 48V system allows for the S6 to coast in between 55 and 160 km/h while the start-stop kicks in from 22 km/h. The system reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.7L/100km.

Warranty

The A6 range comes standard with a one-year/ unlimited-kilometre warranty and a five-year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan, inclusive of all taxes.

Pricing and availability

• Audi A6 40 TDI S tronic                           R 885,000
• Audi A6 45 TDI quattro tiptronic              R 1,059,000
• Audi S6 TFSI quattro tiptronic                 R 1,349,500

The Audi A6 40 TDI and S6 TFSI are currently available for sale at all Audi Dealerships around South Africa. The Audi A6 45 TDI is planned to be introduced into the market by mid-2020. The high-performance model, the Audi RS6 Avant is planned to be launched in the second half of 2020.