For the New Business Elite

The A6 is a historic model for Audi. This new generation marks the seventh iteration. The first generation, the Audi 100, was an epoch-making model that extensively adopted aerodynamic design. The second generation further refined aerodynamics, achieving a Cd value of 0.28.Mercedes-BenzE-Class andBMWWhile its rivals include the 5 Series, it is characterized by its emphasis on technology, such as the full-time four-wheel-drive system called "quattro" and the S tronic transmission with a dual-clutch system.

The new A6Another characteristic of the new A6 lies in what's not visible. By combining cutting-edge steel materials with a wide range of aluminum parts, it achieves a 30kg weight reduction compared to the previous generation. A TV commercial for the A6 in Germany features a CGI sequence where an engineer shapes the A6 chassis as if molding clay, emphasizing the sophisticated materials used for weight reduction. "This is a crucial quality for halting the recent weight spiral and achieving future environmental performance," stated the PR department.

"The A6 is important in the Japanese market. As it represents a core model for Audi, we aim for strong sales performance. The new model features enhanced prestige, incorporates a wealth of innovative technologies, and balances environmental performance with driving dynamics. We want the new business elite, who lead society through innovation, to drive it," said a marketing representative from Audi Japan at the test drive event held at Conrad Tokyo in Shiodome, Tokyo.

Advanced Technologies Incorporated in the New Model

The new A6 is offered with two engine options. The naturally aspirated 2.8-liter V6 engine produces a maximum output of 150 kW and a maximum torque of 280 Nm. The other is a 3-liter V6 engine with a supercharger, delivering 220 kW and 440 Nm. Both are paired with the new generation quattro system, which incorporates torque vectoring control to manage the drive force to all four wheels during cornering, ensuring smooth and safe handling.

Achieving a balance between ride comfort and sporty handling was a key challenge for the new A6. Many suspension components, including the arms, are made of lightweight, high-rigidity forged aluminum, reducing unsprung weight. The weight reduction of the body is complemented by further lightening of the unsprung components, contributing to a more comfortable ride.

Embodying the Downsizing Concept

The engine isA8andA7 SportbackThe supercharged 3-liter V6 unit, also found in the A8 and A7 Sportback, is particularly noteworthy for its balance of power and fuel efficiency.

While offering torque and power comparable to the previous V8, it improves fuel economy by reducing displacement.AudiThis powertrain embodies Audi's downsizing concept.

Furthermore, a key feature of the 3-liter V6 equipped 3.0 TFSI is the addition of an "efficiency" mode to the "Audi drive select" system, which adjusts engine and torque control programs to prioritize fuel economy. Selecting this mode via a button on the driver's seat results in faster gear shifts and other settings focused on maximizing fuel efficiency.

Audi for a New Generation

The new A6 features a distinctive new grille with diagonally cut upper edges. This sense of newness extends beyond the exterior; in a word, it feels more mature. This characteristic is shared with the new generation A7 and A8, offering enhanced comfort and a driving feel that appeals to a wider audience.

As mentioned earlier, the A6 lineup includes the 2.8 FSI quattro (6.1 million yen) with 150 kW and the more powerful 3.0 TFSI quattro (8.35 million yen) with 220 kW.

3.0 TFSI quattro

The latter is equipped with a supercharger, providing strong torque from low RPMs. Additionally, it features a design with shorter intake pipes for responsive acceleration when the accelerator pedal is pressed. In essence, the 3.0 TFSI quattro offers a more powerful driving experience.

When comparing the two models back-to-back, the 2.8 FSI quattro might seem slightly less potent. However, thanks to the 8-speed S tronic transmission, which uses computer-controlled clutch operations to select the appropriate gear and deliver power efficiently to the wheels, there is no sense of power deficiency. For those who prefer a more dynamic drive, the manual mode of the transmission allows drivers to fully enjoy the natural-aspirated engine's capabilities, with maximum torque available from 3,000 rpm.

A Level of Refinement Enjoyable by More People

Both the 2.8 FSI quattro and 3.0 TFSI quattro models share a comfortable ride. While the latter, with its larger 19-inch wheels, offers a slightly firmer ride, both models demonstrate a significant improvement in suppleness and refinement compared to the previous generation. This is likely the result of various factors, including the extensive use of lightweight aluminum suspension components to reduce unsprung weight, the mounting of the subframe, and the chassis's flex characteristics, all contributing to an enhanced sense of luxury.

This suppleness is also evident when turning the steering wheel. RecallingAudithe second-generation A6, released in 1997, meticulously engineered sporty steering—meaning a chassis that instantly responds to the driver's input—successfully broke away from the traditional image of a purely safety-oriented sedan. The new A6 feels like a step up from that, possessing a refined luxury that can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

Exceptional Cabin Quietness

The comfort of the driver's seat has always been aAudiselling point. Controls are logically placed, allowing the driver to operate them without shifting their gaze. Furthermore, areas that come into contact with the driver, such as the steering wheel grip, shift lever, and seat surfaces, are covered with materials that feel pleasant to the touch and exude a refined quality.

Another aspect that left a strong impression on the new A6 is its remarkable quietness while driving. Noise from wind buffeting around the windshield and side mirrors, engine noise from the footwell, and particularly the road noise from the rear tires beneath the rear seats are meticulously suppressed. Audi's noise reduction technology, which saw dramatic advancements in the new A8, has been implemented in the A6 as well.

Dynamic Proportions

"3.0 TFSI quattro"

One area that could be improved is the quality around the center console. In specifications using synthetic resin instead of wood trim, the impression can be rather plasticky. While Audi has consistently pursued quality, evident in minimizing gaps between parts since the 1990s, the extensive use of synthetic resin around the shift lever, or perhaps the surface finish, makes it feel less premium than expected for an upper-midsize vehicle. A higher level of quality is anticipated.

The body silhouette features a longer front overhang and a roofline that extends further back, making the rear trunk appear shorter, thereby creating a sense of dynamism. This evokes the outstanding proportions of the Audi 80, introduced in 1986. Additionally,A1the bold adoption of the new-generation front grille with sharp edges, and the sharply defined headlights that have been a hallmark since the A1, into the A6, which targets a more conservative market, demonstrates Audi's commitment to progress. The times favor innovation.

Audi A6 2.8 FSI quattro | アウディ A6 2.8FSI クワトロ
Body Dimensions | Length 4,930 x Width 1,875 x Height 1,465 mm
Wheelbase | 2,910 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,790 kg
Engine | 2.8-liter V6 DOHC
Maximum Output | 150 kW (204 PS) / 5,250-6,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 280 Nm / 3,000-5,000 rpm
Transmission | Electronically controlled 7-speed transmission
Drivetrain | Full-time 4WD
10・15 Mode Fuel Economy | 11.0 km/L
CO2 Emissions | 211 g/km
Trunk Capacity | 530 liters
Price | 6.1 million yen

Audi A6 3.0 TFSI quattro | アウディ A6 3.0TFSI クワトロ
Vehicle Weight | 1,850 kg
Engine | 3.0-liter V6 DOHC
Maximum Output | 220 kW (300 PS) / 5,250-6,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 440 Nm / 2,900-4,500 rpm
10・15 Mode Fuel Economy | 10.2 km/L
CO2 Emissions | 228 g/km
Price | 8.35 million yen