In the past 18 months, the top-end Audi models have undergone a renaissance to include the latest technology – with the flagship A8, A7 coupe and latest A6 all based on the same chassis and advancements.
That means semi-autonomous features, a sleeker interior design and more efficient powertrain offerings to help the Audis get one step ahead of their market rivals.
But what new features are there on the updated A6 and which ones should you keep your eye on the most? We find out…
Mild-hybrid powertrains
To help with reducing emissions and improving the overall efficiency of the model, Audi has given each engine fitted to the A6 a mild-hybrid set-up, which includes a 48V electrical system.
The engine is supplemented by a belt alternator starter (BAS) that is paired with a lithium-ion battery that allows the engine to switch off when the car is coasting at speeds between 34mph and 99mph. It also takes over from the engine on start-up and can run the car at speeds of up to 13mph in start-stop situations. What’s also clever is that when the car senses the vehicle in front moving away, the engine is predictively started again.
To get energy for the battery, the BAS can recover up to 12kW under braking, helping to improve fuel usage by up to 0.7 litres per 100km.
Enquire Now on a new Audi A6
Sleek and screen-filled cockpit
As the A8, A7 and A6 are all based on the same concept design from 2014 – the Prologue – you’d think that many design elements would be similar. Well, you’d be correct, and that continuity is most obvious in the cockpit.
The central console is almost buttonless, as rather than one screen to control all the features, Audi has built two screens into the dashboard – with the lower of the two employing haptic feedback so you can tell what you’re doing while on the go. You can also control all of the car’s features from the screens, such as the navigation, air conditioning and media systems.
In addition, you get the Virtual Cockpit display in the instrument binnacle, which can display all the information on the car, the media options and a high-definition map so you can keep looking ahead.
Top-end safety systems
To help with ensuring your safety on the road, cars can come with up to five radar sensors, five cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a laser scanner – all of which work together to create a detailed view of the environment and keep you safe while you’re on the go.
For moving in and out of tight parking spaces, the parking pilot and garage pilot can take control of the car and the driver can even leave the vehicle all together – they then monitor the car via the myAudi app and hold down the function button until the car is in place.
The City Assist pack includes accident-prevention features such as autonomous emergency braking and crossing assist, while the Tour Assist option has adaptive cruise control, which can also help with staying in the right lane, and efficiency assist, which helps promote a smoother driving style and reduce fuel usage even further.
