New Audi A6 keeps its A6 badge

The 2025 Audi A6 has been officially unveiled, continuing with petrol and diesel powertrains. This is despite an initial plan to rename this new ICE-power model as the A7. Audi initially intended to keep the A6 badge for the electric A6 e-tron alone. But then it back flipped on that re-naming policy, and has decided to retain the A6 name for the ICE model, which it has had since 1994.

Design & Styling

The new A6, first revealed in Avant wagon form, shares its PPC platform with the A5 liftback and wagon. It features a more aerodynamic design, smoother surfaces and a full-width light bar. Flagship models get matrix LED headlights with seven customisable signatures and digital OLED taillights that can display warning symbols to other drivers.

Read more 2024 Audi RS 4 Competition Plus review

S Line variants introduce sportier bumpers and optional black badges, while alloy wheels range from 18 to 21 inches. The A6 has grown 60mm in length to 4.99 metres, retaining its 2.93-metre wheelbase. It is said to be the most aerodynamically efficient Audi wagon ever.

Interior & Technology

Inside, the A6 integrates three screens: an 11.9-inch instrument cluster, a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen and an optional 10.9-inch passenger-side touchscreen (but please, don’t).

The system runs Android Automotive, enabling over-the-air updates and app downloads like Spotify and YouTube. A privacy mode allows passengers to stream videos without distracting the driver. Other features include ChatGPT integration for voice commands and Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. 

Audi also offers Bang & Olufsen premium sound systems (16 or 20 speakers), four-zone climate control, soft-close doors, a panoramic sunroof with adjustable opacity and wireless phone charging. Seat options include Kaskade fabric and Dinamica microfibre, both made from recycled materials, alongside traditional leather choices.

An ambient lighting system with an ‘interaction light’ runs across the dashboard, showing turn signals and decorative light sequences upon locking or unlocking the car.

Performance & Powertrains

In Europe, where the model launches first, the A6 will feature three engine options, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission:

• 2.0L turbo-petrol (150kW/340Nm)
• 3.0L turbo-petrol V6 (270kW/550Nm, Quattro standard)
• 2.0L turbo-diesel (150kW/400Nm, Quattro optional)

A new ‘mild-hybrid plus’ system on the V6 and diesel models includes a 48V battery (1.7kWh capacity), capable of driving the wheels on electricity alone at low speeds. The 18kW/230Nm electric motor helps in stop-and-go traffic and light cruising, enhancing efficiency.

Driving Dynamics & Suspension

Standard coil-spring suspension can be upgraded with:

• S Line ‘sports’ setup (20mm lower)
• Adaptive air suspension, which lowers by 10mm at high speeds (120km/h+) or raises by 20mm for rough terrain
• Rear-wheel steering, reducing the turning circle by one metre
• Sport rear differential on V6 models for better cornering traction

Quattro AWD is standard on the V6, while the diesel variant offers it as an option. Additional enhancements like brake torque-vectoring and refined steering/suspension improve ride comfort and handling.

Advanced Safety & Driver Assistance

The new A6 includes lane centering assist, which can communicate with other vehicles, adaptive cruise control, and cross-traffic alerts.

No word yet on which models and engines will be available here but in the past there has been a focus on the allroad and RS 6 variants, which are yet to be revealed.