Next-gen Audi A6 to get distinctive styling, more tech

Audi has started work on its fifth-generation A6 sedan (internally known as C8). Developed along with the new A7 Sportback and A8 sedan, all three models will share the platform, driveline, chassis as well as electrical systems to keep costs in check. The facelifted Audi A6 Matrix was recently launched in the Indian market. 

 

The new Audi A6’s exterior styling will lean heavily towards the firm's Prologue concept car. Audi says the essence of the current-gen A6, A7 and A8 can be found in the Prologue concept’s design. The new A6 will continue to get the signature Audi hexagonal grille but will be wider than before. The headlights are likely to be more angular with distinctive LED graphics. Noticeable tweaks include a more heavily contoured bonnet, a flatter roof and pronounced haunches over the wheel arches. The all-new A6’s rear styling will also mimic the concept and will come with distinctive OLED tail-lights, which will be previewed on the upcoming Audi e-tron Quattro concept that will be displayed at the Frankfurt motor show 2015.

 

In the cabin, the dashboard gets a new design that is on the same lines as the new Q7 SUV. It will come with the same touchscreen system and an enhanced touchpad interface featuring MMI functions that will be first seen on the next-gen Audi A8 sedan. As many as three HD monitors will be placed on the dashboard to support various functions. The instrument panel will be an advanced version of the screen offered on the new TT, R8 and the Q7. The third display will sit lower in the centre section of the dashboard which will help regulate multimedia and entertainment functions along with HVAC controls. In select international markets, the new sedan will also get a connectivity platform with WLAN.This feature will allow access to live traffic updates for the navigation system as well as software updates. 

Expected to have similar dimensions as the current-gen A6, the new car will have more interior space, thanks to its modular second-generation MLB platform. The wheelbase is expected to be longer, with even wider tracks and shorter overhangs. This will result in more boot capacity too. The new platform adopts a high percentage of hot-formed high-strength steel, aluminium and carbonfibre-reinforced plastic to cut weight. 

 

Power will continue to come from an extended range of four-cylinder engines. These will be revised versions of the current petrol and diesel fours and offer similar outputs to those used by the new A4. According to sources, the more luxurious petrol A6s sold internationally will use new 3.0-litre V6 and 4.0-litre V8 engines sourced from the Audi-Porsche ‘Kovomo’ engine joint venture. Audi also is planning a new range of V6 and V8 diesels with electric turbocharging – a technology Audi will launch on its upcoming SQ7.