(Tue 12 Aug 08)

The updated Audi A6 range is available to order starting this week and will arrive in UK dealerships in October.

The new A6 is recognisably different from the current one thanks to a series of styling changes both inside and out, but the big news is Audi's thorough revamp of the engine line-up.

For example, the 3.2 FSI V6 and 4.2 V8 petrol engines have both gone, to be replaced by a supercharged three-litre TFSI. This has close to the power of the 4.2, with a maximum of 286bhp giving 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph, but it also uses less fuel on the combined economy cycle than the old 3.2 did, with an official figure of 30mpg.

There's also a new two-litre turbo diesel which produces 134bhp and is so economical that Audi has given it the "e" branding first used on the A3. With the extra help of raised gear ratios, a regenerating alternator, a power steering system which operates only when it's asked to, a 20mm reduction in ride height and various aerodynamic tweaks, the A6 2.0 TDIe manages 53.3mpg on the combined cycle and officially emits 139g/km of CO2, which means owners will pay no more than £120 of annual car tax over the next two years.

At the other end of the scale, Audi's formidable 572bhp five-litre twin-turbocharged V10 petrol engine will become available with the saloon body style, not just the Avant as before. The RS 6 saloon costs £76,160 and, as with other A6s, you can order one now, though first deliveries aren't expected until November.

The non-RS cars are divided into the usual standard, SE and S line trim levels - the last of these being distinguished by A4-style LED running lights - and there's a choice of six- and seven-speed transmissions and front- or four-wheel drive. Prices range from £24,800 for the standard 2.0 TDIe to £39,010 for the 3.0 TFSI quattro Avant S line.

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