The case for the A6 Avant (estate for non Audi aficionados ) is about to stack up even more favourably as the new model made its world debut last week ahead of its arrival here towards the end of the year. And it is even more accommodating with Audi having trimmed away weight in the interest of efficiency and agility.
Similar to my experience in the new A6 saloon recently, the Avant is a sleek and technologically-advanced newcomer that delivers major efficiency improvements.
In this instance it is helped by a state-of-the art construction processes which reduce weight by up to 70kg, and offer an impressive and increased carrying capacity of up to 1,680 litres.
The A6 Avant sets new standards with its low weight. Thanks to the use of aluminium components, which make up roughly 20 per cent of the body, gross weight has been reduced by as much as 70 kilogrammes, depending on engine, compared with the previous model. The A6 Avant 2.0 TDI, for example, has a kerb weight of just 1,640 kilograms.
An interesting addition for estate drivers, if the optional advanced key feature is added, is that the luggage compartment in this new Avant can be opened automatically simply by ‘gesturing’ with a foot to two sensors beneath the rear bumper.
The A6 Avant has a capacity of 565 litres, which can be increased to 1,680 litres by folding down the rear seat backs. The load bay has luggage lashing eyes, side restraining straps, bag hooks, a double cargo floor, a rail luggage fixing system, a dirt-resistant tray, and roof rails as standard. A through-load facility and a fixing set that uses the two standard rails in the cargo floor are optional.
A choice of four engines featuring direct fuel injection should be available for the newA6 Avant here. Expect the big seller to be the efficient 177bhp, 2.0-litre TDI, which, with its 56.5mpg economy potential and relatively low 132g/km CO2 output, offers an outstanding combination of strong performance and comparatively low running costs.
Transmission options, based on the engine choice, will include a manual six-speed transmission or multitronic CVT for front-wheel-drive models, and the new seven-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission for quattros. Each unit features a wide gear-ratio spread which gives a further boost to overall efficiency.
New energy-efficient electromechanical power steering, in conjunction with the lightweight suspension set-up with its considerable aluminium content, promises further refined handling. The reduced unsprung mass will also favour ride comfort – which has already been highly praised in the A6 saloon – and it can be enhanced even further if the optional adaptive air suspension is chosen.
The Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system could also be standard in the new A6 Avant, allowing drivers to fine-tune the car’s responses as desired via the Multi Media Interface screen.
In front-wheel-drive models the latest electronic stability programme with electronic limited slip differential will help to maintain optimum control, without impairing responsiveness during enthusiastic driving.
The spacious interior combines the latest Audi design language with the fine materials constructed to a very high standard, and embellishes this with exceptional technological input. The cabin’s focal point is the MMI with its 6.5-inch retractable monitor and large central control knob. MMI provides easy and intuitive access to the high quality audio system, the Bluetooth phone interface, and the SD card-based navigation system.
I am looking forward to an Irish test drive in the new A6 Avant at the year’s end or early next year.
