A Strategic Move

The Audi A6 hybrid, launched by Audi Japan on September 24, 2012, is natural, comfortable to ride, and significantly more fuel-efficient than its gasoline counterparts. Furthermore, at 6.9 million yen, its price is considerably lower than its German rivals. "The Japanese hybrid car market is large, and we want to increase Audi's presence there," stated Audi Japan, underscoring its strategic nature.

You Wouldn't Know It's a Hybrid

In a word, the A6 hybrid is a car that makes you think, "This is all I need." In low-load conditions, such as when not pressing the accelerator pedal deeply, it runs on electric power alone, offering ample torque even in this mode. Due to the combination of the 1,850kg vehicle weight and the 2-liter gasoline engine, "the electric motor is effective in effectively supplementing torque at low RPMs," as explained byAudiJapan.



The engine starts and stops smoothly, almost imperceptibly during driving. Acceleration is responsive, reacting linearly to accelerator pedal input. When accelerating significantly, the engine engages, increasing speed. When the accelerator pedal is released, the engine stops, and the electric motor functions as a regenerative system, storing energy in the lithium-ion battery. These operations can be visually monitored on the "power meter," which replaces the tachometer. However, unless the driver consciously pays attention, the A6 hybrid is simply a refined, high-quality sedan.



The A6 hybrid's system features a power boost function, utilizing the electric motor's torque for acceleration. The power meter displays the load on both the engine and electric motor. When the engine load reaches "100," the electric motor activates. Regardless of speed, the accelerator pedal's depression level provides a stepped acceleration, akin to engaging a large turbocharger. This sensation, with its unique character, can become quite addictive and enjoyable.

A Compelling Choice

Previously, hybrid models introduced in Japan included the Volkswagen "Touareg Hybrid" (8.98 million yen) and BMW's "BMW"Active Hybrid 5" (8.5 million yen), belonging to the luxury segment, unlike Japanese hybrids represented by the Toyota "Prius" (from 2.17 million yen). For users, a hybrid system might be considered an added value.



However,Audias mentioned earlier, the A6 hybrid is priced at 6.9 million yen, a more accessible figure (though still not inexpensive). It possesses a unique driving feel distinct from the conventional "A6"" or "S6"". It retains the commendable qualities of its predecessors, such as the lightweight body, fuel-saving technologies like the engine start-stop system, and a refined interior. Uniquely (and pleasingly), it comes standard with energy-saving features like an electric sliding roof, justified by reduced air conditioning usage, and LED headlamps, due to lower electricity consumption.



While officially rated at 13.8 km/l (JC08 mode), a professional driver who instructed during the test drive mentioned, "It easily exceeded 20 km/l" during city driving with frequent EV mode use, assuming the battery was fully charged. Observing the fuel consumption records on the monitor, this claim seems plausible. The A6 hybrid is a well-executed hybrid model in many respects. For those considering purchasing a vehicle in the A6 class, it is certainly a model worth including in their options.



Audi A6 hybrid

Body Dimensions | Overall Length 4,930 x Width 1,875 x Height 1,465mm

Wheelbase | 2,910mm

Tread Front/Rear | 1,625/1,615mm

Minimum Ground Clearance | 150mm

Weight | 1,850mm

Trunk Capacity | 375 liters (VDA)

Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive

Fuel Economy | 13.8km/l (JC08 mode)

CO2 Emissions | 168g/km

Engine | 1,984cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC Intercooler Turbo

Engine Max Output | 155kW (211ps) / 4,300-6,000rpm

Engine Max Torque | 350Nm (35.7kgm) / 1,500-4,200rpm

Motor Max Output | 40kW (54ps)

Motor Max Torque | 210Nm (21.4kgm)

Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic

Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs/Discs

Tires | 245/45 R18

Price | 6.9 million yen


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