The sixth generation of the A6 will be launched this autumn by Audi.
The new version of the highly successful mid-size saloon shows the hand of Audi's chief-designer Walter de Silva - who was responsible for the final shaping of the new A6. He's the stylist who crafted the Alfa 156 several years ago and is now styling boss for a clutch of marques within the VW family, including Seat and Audi. He's now working on the 2010 A3.
The new A6 will be made completely of aluminium. Air-suspension will be available as an option, and electro-hydraulic brakes will be standard.
Three petrol engines will be available from the start: the 2.7-litre unit with 180bhp, a three-litre engine with 240bhp and a range-topping 4.2-litre developing 300bhp. The only four-cylinder engine in the range will be a two-litre diesel with 136bhp. Following that lot will be a 2.5-litre V6 TDi - with a new common-rail unit with three-litres and 200bhp hard on its heels. A V8 TDi with 250bhp is also on the way, but buyers will have to wait until summer 2006.
The new A6 Avant will make its appearance a year after the new saloon - and in spring 2005 the first A6 coupé will make its appearance. Audi's designers are reported to be thinking of an A6 cabrio as a strong challenge to the Mercedes CLK convertible.- Automedia