Audi Launches the 2025 A6 Avant, Sedan Model Coming Soon
Audi is enhancing its wagon lineup by introducing a larger counterpart to the A5 Avant. The new A6 Avant (C9) appears to be a scaled-up variant, adding to the brand's impressive range of wagons. While both models boast attractive designs, additional options would offer more diversity. Interestingly, the upcoming A6 generation is initially released solely as a wagon, with the traditional sedan variant expected next month. For now, the extended-roof model is in the spotlight.
The choice of a brown color for the press photos is quite unconventional, though it may not appeal to everyone. Meanwhile, our team at Motor1 Germany recently reviewed a black A6 Avant featuring the signature dark Four Rings on both front and rear. Initially, Audi had plans to rename this model to A7 Avant as part of a new naming strategy that differentiated combustion engines with odd numbers and electric vehicles with even numbers. However, this naming plan has since been abandoned.
Distinct from the fully electric A6 Avant E-Tron, the new model forgoes the popular split headlight design seen across many brands lately. The placement of radars and sensors below the grille is noticeable, and there's hope that manufacturers will find a more integrated solution in the future. The rear features genuine exhaust tips, as Audi has decided to eliminate faux exhausts from its vehicles—a welcome change.
Boasting a drag coefficient of 0.25, the A6 Avant is Audi’s most aerodynamic combustion-engine wagon to date. The electric E-Tron estate is even sleeker with a coefficient of 0.24. In the European market, the base variant comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, while higher trims feature 21-inch forged wheels with a tri-color design.
Compared to its predecessor, the new A6 Avant is lengthened by 2.3 inches, reaching an overall length of 196.4 inches. The wheelbase remains at 115.2 inches, virtually unchanged from the previous model. Excluding mirrors, the width is just under 74 inches, consistent with the outgoing C8 generation.
Inside the cabin, the design closely mirrors that of the A5 Avant, featuring similar elements like the optional 10.9-inch passenger display. Both the 14.5-inch infotainment system and the 11.9-inch digital driver’s display match the A5’s dimensions. Enhancements include a 30% increase in sound insulation without adding weight. Audi has improved window and door sealing and offers optional acoustic glazing for the rear doors.
The A6 Avant introduces new engine and transmission mounts to reduce noise and vibrations. The dual-clutch automatic transmission's gear teeth have been refined to minimize the S Tronic's operational noise. Additionally, models equipped with 19-inch wheels or larger feature noise absorbers with foam rings to lessen tire-induced vibrations.
Cargo space varies by configuration, offering up to 17.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, enhanced by a standard rail system for added flexibility. Folding the 40:20:40-split rear bench increases the cargo volume to 54.1 cubic feet. Even the base model includes an electric tailgate as standard, along with a projection light beneath the bumper indicating where to use foot gestures to operate the tailgate.
The expansive panoramic glass roof can transition from clear to opaque with a simple button press. Comprising nine segments, it creates various patterns that alternate between transparency and opacity. Audi refers to this feature as a "digital curtain," allowing drivers to control the amount of natural light entering the cabin or to create shade as desired.
The European entry-level 2025 Audi A6 Avant is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 201 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This four-cylinder engine utilizes an updated Miller cycle and is available only in front-wheel drive, as Quattro is not an option. A fuel-efficient 2.0 TDI with mild-hybrid technology offers the same 201 hp but with increased torque at 295 lb-ft. The diesel variant is available with either front- or all-wheel drive.
For those seeking more power, a 3.0-liter V6 with 48V technology is available in the top-tier A6 models. This engine delivers 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, matching the performance of the new S5 Avant. The six-cylinder A6 Avant accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds and is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph.
Performance Variants
As expected, the four-cylinder versions are less powerful. The gasoline model accelerates to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds, while the diesel version does so in 7.9 seconds, or 7 seconds with Quattro. The top speed for the four-cylinder models is approximately 149 mph (240 km/h). It is anticipated that Audi will release a new S6 Avant soon, potentially followed by a next-generation RS6 Avant. There is also hope that a robust V8 variant will continue in future generations.
Additional Features
Notable features include rear-wheel steering, adaptive air suspension, and brake-by-wire technology. The V6 model can be upgraded with a Quattro Sport differential for enhanced torque distribution between the rear wheels, improving handling and providing a more dynamic driving experience. The platform has been updated from MLB Evo to the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), which is also used by the A5 Avant.
Audi is set to begin accepting orders in Europe this month. In Germany, pricing starts at €58,000 for the four-cylinder gasoline variant and €61,700 for the diesel model. Manufacturing will take place at the Neckarsulm plant, alongside the A5 Avant. Prospective buyers will not see a continuation of the A7 Sportback, as Audi has decided not to continue this sleek derivative.
Source: Audi