Audi A6 Avant spied

Text: Jack Rix / Photos: Automedia

27th April 2011

Get a load of the new A6 Avant! Audi's latest estate has been spied hot-weather testing and unlike in other photos of the prototype we've published, this time its been stripped of its camouflage, revealing the handsome bodywork in all its glory.

While the newcomer will undoubtedly be practical, at least matching the 1,660-litre boot capacity of the outgoing car, it looks to have traded a few litres to accomodate a sportier profile, with a steeply-raked rear screen and a roof spoiler clearly visible.

Small rear light clusters help to keep an uncluttered look at the rear, while the slim, aggressive headlights incorporate LED strips.

Just like the saloon, which weighs 80kg less than the car it replaces, the Avant will use Audi's MLB modular aluminium chassis, making it significantly lighter than its main rivals the BMW 5-Series Touring and Mercedes E-Class estate. The weight loss will also benefit handling and, along with stop-start and electric power steering, help it to be the most efficient car in its class.

Engines choices will include the 175bhp 2.0 TDI unit as well as the six-cylinder 3.0 TDI motor with either 201bhp or 242bhp. The only petrol option from launch will be the supercharged 3.0 TFSI with 296bhp, although an all-new turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 will feature in the hot S6 model when it arrives later in the A6's product cycle.

While the saloon went on sale earlier this month, the Avant won't arrive until towards the end of the year, pointing towards a world debut at the Frankfurt Show.