As any VW/Audi enthusiast knows, Wörthersee is arguably the Mecca of VAG "car shows." Held for the past 30 years in Reifnitz, Austria, both VW and Audi have been known to use this event as an opportunity to showcase the pinnacle of their brands' "in-house tuning" creations. But this year, Audi really took a no holds barred approach with this: the Audi A1 clubsport quattro.
Under the hood, the boffins at Audi's skunkworks, quattro GmbH chose the TT RS/RS3's formidable 2.5-liter TFSI in-line five-cylinder to power the A1 clubsport quattro. The powerplant is then mated to a six-speed manual transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, both being an "enhanced" version of that found in the TT RS.
Unlike the "measly" 340-hp TT RS however, this scorching-hot A1 boasts an unbelievable 503 horsepower and 486 lb/ft of torque. That's enough to rocket Audi's "next bigger thing" from 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds, 0-124 mph in 10.9 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. To put this in perspective, that's only 1/10th of second slower to 62 mph than the R8 GT.
In the handling and braking department, the A1 clubsport quattro sits on 19-inch, turbine design alloy wheels and large, internally ventilated disc brakes. Up front, six-piston calipers grab perforated carbon fiber-ceramic discs with steel discs at the the rear. All rounded out by a coilover suspension that features adjustable compression and rebound damping.
Huge air intakes with carbon struts straddling a large single-frame, honeycomb grille immediately tell the world that is not the cute little hatch Justin Timberlake was talking about. Like the venerable Sport quattro, heat from the engine compartment is shed through two large air outlets in the hood. Also like it's Groupe B ancestors, the A1 clubsport quattro's front fenders, doors and rear side panels have been widened over two inches, forming the famed "box" flares we all know and love. Rounding out the kit is a massive, double-winged roof spoiler providing much-needed downforce.
Inside, the "race car for the street" mantra rings loud and clear. Niceties such as MMI have been replaced by toggle switches and extra guages. A large crossbar, battery and storage for racing helmets are where the rear seats used to be; and the lightweight, four-point-harnessed bucket seats are taken straight from the Audi R8 GT.
Overall, we haven't geeked-out over an Audi press release this much since the reveal of the quattro concept. For those of you able to make it, be sure to check out the Audi A1 clubsport quattro at the 2011 Wörthersee Tour starting tomorrow, June 1st through Saturday, June 4th. More information can be found within the official press release after the photo gallery below.
Press Release:
Audi at “Wörthersee Tour 2011”
Reifnitz/Ingolstadt, 2011-05-31: It gives the impression of having just emerged from the shop, freshly painted, on its way to the first rollout on the race track. The Audi A1 clubsport quattro is a one-off vehicle built to the limits of technology for breathtaking dynamics. Audi is presenting the showcar in Reifnitz, in the Austrian state of Kärnten, at the Wörtherseetour 2011. The 30th edition of this major meeting for Audi, Seat, Skoda and VW fans takes place from June 1 - 4, 2011.
The heart of the Audi A1 clubsport quattro is a classic Audi gasoline engine – a five-cylinder unit displacing 2.5 liters with turbocharging and direct fuel injection. Compared with the version used in the Audi TT RS and RS 3 Sportback on which it is based, the output of the TFSI has been increased dramatically to 370 kW (503 hp) and 660 Nm (486.79 lb-ft) of torque. Maximum power is available between 2,500 and 5,300 rpm.
The turbocharger, intercooler, admission tract and the exhaust line have been systematically tuned for high performance. As on the Audi A4 DTM, the tailpipe is located on the left flank, just in front of the rear wheel.
Another area where the A1 clubsport quattro shines is its overall weight of just 1,390 kilograms (3,064 lb). The powerful engine catapults the car from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 3.7 seconds. From 0 to 200 km/h (124.27 mph) takes just 10.9 seconds, while the car goes from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) in fourth gear in just 2.4 seconds.
A six-speed manual transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, both taken from the TT RS and enhanced, deliver the power to all four wheels. Top speed is governed at 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
The Audi showcar rolls on 255/30 low-profile tires mounted on 19-inch alloy wheels with a unique turbine design. Sitting behind the wheels are large, internally ventilated disc brakes. Up front, six-piston calipers grab perforated carbon fiber-ceramic discs. Large steel discs are mounted on the rear axle. The coilover suspension of the A1 clubsport quattro features adjustable compression and rebound damping.
Dynamic and brawny: the exterior
Sporting a very dynamic appearance and an exquisite finish, the showcar makes no secret of its potential. The body has a Glacier White matt paint finish, with accents provided by many add-on parts. The roof arch in high-gloss black supports a roof made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), and the four rings at the front of the car are solid aluminum.
Large, split air intakes with carbon struts are integrated into the distinctively modified front skirt. The single-frame radiator grille sports a black honeycomb design, and the headlights feature matted clasps with a red “wing.” Heat from the engine compartment is dissipated via two large air outlets in the hood.
The front fenders, the doors and the rear side panels of the Audi A1 clubsport quattro have been widened by a total of 60 millimeters (2.36 in). They form horizontal “blister” edges, like those found on the Audi Ur-quattro. Air outlets are integrated into the rear ends of the fenders, and the newly designed trim strips on the sills are made of exposed CFRP. Sleek side mirrors are reminiscent of the Audi R8 high-performance sports car.
The rear of the showcar is dominated by the roof spoiler, which features a double wing to provide for sufficient downforce. Darkly toned rear lights and a large, closed diffuser hone the rear view of the A1 clubsport quattro.
Designed as a road vehicle for the race track, the showcar has no rear seat. In its place are a large crossbar to further stiffen the body and storage for racing helmets. A weight-optimized starter battery used in racing is mounted in the rear below the two storage compartments. The strict high-performance concept left no room for an infotainment system, an MMI monitor or even a loudspeaker. The lightweight bucket seats are taken from the Audi R8 GT and feature a chassis made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer. Red four-point belts secure the driver and passenger.
The interior of the showcar is a study in dark gray. Large areas are covered with exposed, matt-finished CFRP, including the walls in the rear section of the car, the tubes of the air vents and the “stern of the yacht” in the lower section of the center console. The CFRP material used on the open-spoked sport steering wheel is covered with leather. Rocker switches on the center console replace switches on the control stalk and in the door panels. Three additional instruments indicate the oil pressure, boost pressure and electrical system voltage.
The center console and the seats are covered in fine leather upholstery with tone-on-tone stitching. The selector lever is made of aluminum; the caps of the pedals and the surface of the footrest are made of stainless steel. Red loops replace the handles on the doors, the glove box and the covers of the storage compartments.
Experience the Audi A1 clubsport quattro interactively
The Audi A1 clubsport quattro can also be experienced exclusively in Need for Speed World (http://world.needforspeed.com), where it will be available to all players as a free in-game rental car from June 1 – 4. Need for Speed World is the Play4Free online PC racing game from EA, in which players take part in races in a giant multiplayer world.
The Audi stand at Wörthersee
Joining the A1 clubsport quattro on the Audi stand at the GTI meet are 17 production vehicles from the current Audi model lineup. Among the vehicles that the brand is presenting to its fans at the Wörthersee is the new Audi Q3. The public can also take a close look at the Audi TT RS in Ibis White and an RS 3 Sportback in Misano Red. Another model is the new Audi A6, which is on display next to an A7 Sportback in Misano Red.
Fans and guests making the trip to the Wörthersee from June 1 – 4 have the opportunity to present their tuned Audi in a worthy manner by driving it past the Audi stage at the company’s Wörthersee stand.
New accessories for production models
Many of the features of the Audi A1 clubsport quattro will soon show up in the accessories program for the A1 family, which Audi is steadily expanding. Adhesive film decals in the contrasting colors Amalfi White, Ice Silver, metallic and Daytona Gray, pearl effect for the vehicles’ shoulders are available immediately.
Another option is the union square lifestyle kit. It comprises exterior decals and design elements for the interior, both with a diamond pattern. Audi is presenting both this and the A1 aerodynamics competition kit at the Wörtherseetour. The customer can order this add-on kit painted either in the body color or in a contrasting color. The same applies to the Audi A1 roof spoiler competition kit.
Source: Audi AG
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Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Audi reveals 503-hp A1 clubsport quattro for Wörthersee Tour 2011
Audi coverage of the 2011 Carlisle Import & Kit Nationals
Kicking off our 2011 Audi show coverage season was the Carlisle Import & Kit Nationals held May 20-22 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Seeing as we live only about two hours from the fairgrounds, we always make a point to visit this event and look forward to it all winter. But closer still are the Hershey offices of Fourtitude, whose staff is a fixture of the show and always line up some four-ringed rarities for the fans. In particular this year, with a taste of Audi's hot new, twin-charged A1.
As mentioned above, Carlisle is (unofficially) known as Fourtitude's "home show." Keeping that in mind, George and staff have been known to procure some of the most outlandish Audis seen this side of the Atlantic. For example, last year's show featured a (pre-US approval) TT RS and original Sport quattro. Albeit bearing a lot less horsepower and provenance, this year was no exception. On hand at Fourtitude's booth was a new A7 Sportback and a not-available-in-the-USA, 185-hp, twin-charged A1 1.4 TFSI that was driven to the event by Audi USA's A3, TT and R8 product planner, Mark Fruechtnicht. (Despite having this A1 displayed on US soil, we were told that we'll most likely have to wait until the next model refresh until we see the A1 on North American roads.)
Aside from the PR-related vehicles, Carlisle boasts (in our opinion) one of the most interesting and quite frankly, coolest showing of Audis on the East Coast. As you'll see in our photo gallery, the cars in attendance ranged from early 3-cylinder DKWs; to ur-quattros, ur-S4/S6s, 4000s, 5000s; all the way to brand-new S4s and even an R8 Spyder. For the Audi enthusiast (like us) who is looking for a more mature crowd and diverse selection of cars, Carlisle is a can't-miss event to kick off the summer show season.
In addition to the many Audis in the show field, our friends from Fourtitude were gracious enough to allow us to piggyback on their A1 photo shoot. Be sure to check out our photo gallery for shots of the entire Audi representation along with our own A1 mini-gallery.
Click here for our full photo gallery of the event.
Photos: Matt Richards
Words: Adam Bush
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Rendered: Audi A6 Allroad quattro (C7)
Following the official reveal of the new Audi A6 Avant last week, automotive manipulator extraordinaire, Theophilus Chin took the opportunity to render what he believes a new A6 Allroad quattro will look like. Considering Chin now has official Avant photos to work with, we imagine that the next generation A6 Allroad would appear very similar (likely without the rotor wheels) to these photos.
Full gallery TheophilusChin.com
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Video: A day in the life of an Audi Le Mans driver
There's a common misconception in the sports world that motorsport is not as physically and/or mentally demanding as other sports. The reality however, is anything but. And to drive Le Mans, is arguably the most demanding of all. Watch as Allan McNish explains, in amazing detail, exactly what it's like to race the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Video after the jump.
Source: Audi UK (YouTube)
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Spied: Audi R8 GT Spyder caught at the Nurburgring
Spotted running test laps at the Nürburgring, our spy photographers managed to shoot some very nice photos of the upcoming Audi R8 GT Spyder. Official sketches of the car were released last month and its said that the new drop-top will be previewed at next month's 24 hours of Le Mans. Like its coupe counterpart, expect the R8 GT Spyder to boast a 560-hp V10 and an ultra-exclusive production run. Photo gallery after the jump.
Video: 2012 Audi A6 Avant official trailer
Along with the previously posted photos, details and specifications, Audi has debuted this new trailer for the 2012 A6 Avant. Starting with a relatively mellow mood and soundtrack, the trailer quickly finds its inner 8 Mile; breaking into an Eminem-esque beat, showcasing both the reserved and edgy qualities of the new wagon. Video after the jump.
While we really enjoyed this new trailer, we couldn't help but notice that the music is very reminiscent of that in Chrysler's "Imported from Detroit" Super Bowl ad. Although, noting the A6 Avant's handsome new lines, the similarities end with the soundtrack.
Source: Audi AG via QuattroholicVideos on YouTube
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
2012 Audi A6 Avant officially revealed
Making its world premiere this afternoon in Berlin, the all-new Audi A6 Avant has been officially revealed. While we've become quite familiar with the new A6 sedan, the Avant brings with it more than just extra interior space and utility. Notably, the choice of six different engines; from an ultra-efficient 2.0 TDI, to an all-new, twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel producing 313 horsepower. Photos and details after the jump.
As with all of Audi's new models, the C7-generation A6 Avant is all about progress. Thanks to the use of aluminum components comprising roughly 20 percent of the body, the new A6 Avant is over 154 lbs lighter than its predecessor. And despite its light weight, the new Avant offers up to 59 cubic feet of cargo space (with rear seats folded down); topped off with a very cool "gesture controlled," automatic rear hatch.
Under the hood, the new A6 Avant offers a choice of six engines (two gasoline and four TDI units). From an ultra-efficient 177-hp 2.0 TDI, boasting over 47 MPG; to the range-topping, 313-hp, twin-turbo 3.0 TDI that can launch the new wagon from 0-62 mph in just 5.4 seconds. Audi notes that all of the engines utilize the technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform, which have helped to reduce fuel consumption by as much as 18 percent.
The Audi A6 Avant will be available for sale in Germany in the second half of 2011 at a base price of 40,850 euros - and unfortunately, we don't expect the 2012 A6 Avant to reach North American shores. For a more detailed description of the many features of Audi's latest Avant, be sure to check out the full press release following the photo gallery below.
Press Release:
A new edition of a proven winner – The new Audi A6 Avant
Ingolstadt, 2011-05-18: Audi is launching the next generation of the A6 Avant, the most successful business-class station wagon in Europe. The new model presents the brand’s full array of progressive technological expertise. Its lightweight body, large portions of which are made of aluminum, sets new standards, as does the wide selection of assistance and multimedia systems. The keyword for the latter is Audi connect. The new Audi A6 Avant is available with a choice of six engines: two gasoline engines and four diesel units. Fuel consumption has been reduced by as much as 18 percent compared with the previous model. Topping the engine lineup is the new 3.0 TDI with twin-turbo technology and 230 kW (313 hp). Audi also offers numerous high-end options for the drivetrain and the chassis. The luggage compartment has a capacity of up to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft) and offers a number of elegant features, including a power rear hatch that opens in response to a sensor signal.
The new Audi A6 Avant – Progressive technological expertise
Audi is once again leading the way, with the new A6 Avant the trendsetter in the business class. With its lightweight body and many additional innovations, the seventh-generation A6 Avant is intended to write another chapter in the model series’ history of success.
Measuring 4.93 meters (16.17 ft) in length, the Audi A6 Avant makes a very agile first impression. Its proportions are sporty, and the low roof line flows into flat D-pillars. Audi offers LED headlights and rear lights as a visually and technically fascinating option.
The new Avant sets standards with its low weight. With aluminum components comprising roughly 20 percent of the body, Audi – the global pioneer in lightweight construction – has raised the bar once again. Gross weight has been reduced by as much as 70 kilograms (154.32 lb) compared with the previous model. The A6 Avant 2.0 TDI, for example, has a curb weight of just 1,640 kilograms (3,615.58 lb).
The luggage compartment has a capacity of 565 liters (19.95 cu ft), which can be increased to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft) by folding down the rear seat backs. Audi offers its customers numerous elegant features as options. Topping the list is a gesture-controlled, automatic rear hatch. Through the combination of the power luggage compartment hatch and the convenience key, a particular movement pattern below the rear bumper activates the system and the hatch opens automatically.
Audi offers a choice of six engines featuring direct fuel injection for the new A6 Avant: two gasoline engines and four TDI units. They develop between 130 kW (177 hp) and 230 kW (313 hp). This ample power is combined with groundbreaking efficiency. The 2.0 TDI consumes an average of just 5.0 liters of fuel per 100 km (47.04 US mpg).
All of the engines utilize the technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform, which have helped to reduce fuel consumption by as much as 18 percent.
Depending on the engine, the new A6 Avant rolls off the assembly line with either a six-speed manual, the sporty seven-speed S tronic, the continuously variable multitronic or the convenient eight-speed tiptronic. In addition to front-wheel drive, the latest development stage of quattro permanent all-wheel drive is available as an option. The optional sport differential flexibly distributes the power between the rear wheels.
The chassis is also very sophisticated and combines sporty dynamics with excellent comfort. The Audi drive select driving dynamics system comes standard, and the new electromechanical power steering is extremely efficient. In the front-wheel-drive variants, the ESP electronic stabilization program featuring an electronic limited slip differential make the car’s handling even more precise. Options include the adaptive air suspension and dynamic steering, with the latter becoming available somewhat later.
The interior of the new A6 Avant treats its occupants with a sleek and clear design, uncompromising workmanship, generous appointments and exemplary ergonomics. Among the high-end options are a head-up display, adaptive light with variable headlight range control, front seats with ventilation and massage function, and numerous infotainment components. Topping the range of infotainment options are the hard drive-based navigation system MMI navigation plus and the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System.
Audi connect, a fully fledged Internet connection, also places the new Audi A6 Avant at the head of the pack. In collaboration with Google, it brings special online services to the car, including voice-controlled points of interest (POI) search. A Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to surf and email freely while on the road. The Audi online traffic information service informs the driver in real time about how heavy traffic is on the selected route.
The new A6 Avant can be equipped with all of the brand’s assistance and safety systems for even more composed driving. Some systems work closely together with MMI navigation plus, further enhancing their capabilities. A new feature in the Audi lineup, the parking system plus with 360° display, will be available somewhat later. Four small cameras record images of the vehicle’s immediate surroundings.
Fast software combines these images and displays them in a variety of views on the large onboard monitor.
The Audi A6 Avant will be available for sale in the second half of 2011 at a base price of 40,850 euros.
Lightness and elegance: the design
The design of the newest model reflects lightness and modern elegance. It is every bit as characteristic for Audi as the sporty proportions. The Audi A6 Avant measures 4.93 meters (16.17 ft) in length and 1.87 meters (6.14 ft) in width, but only 1.46 meters (4.79 ft) in height. Its wheelbase has grown to 2.91 meters (9.55 ft) – a big gain over the previous model.
The engine hood stretches out far to the front; sharp edges frame taut surfaces over the entire length of the flanks. The low, early-sloping roof line and the flat D-pillars underscore the dynamic styling. The characteristic rear lights and the exhaust system’s two tailpipes accentuate the rear of the car. The optional S line exterior package provides for an even more dynamic look.
The optional LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions, are another innovative feature. They make the front end with the single-frame grille featuring angular upper corners and high-gloss black struts even more distinctive. The xenon plus headlights, optionally available either on their own or integrated into the adaptive light system with variable headlight range control, provide excellent illumination of the road in any situation. The xenon plus units and the LED headlights are combined with LED rear lights.
Low weight: the composite construction body
A new composite construction concept makes the body of the Audi A6 Avant highly rigid, safe and unusually light. Many components of the occupant cell are fabricated from high-strength and ultra high-strength steels. The strut braces in the engine compartment and the bolt-on body components are made of aluminum and comprise roughly 20 percent of the body. The concept represents the transition to the innovative Multimaterial Space Frame, with which Audi is opening a new chapter in lightweight body construction.
The body of the A6 Avant is roughly 30 kilograms (66.14 lb) lighter than that of the previous model. Depending on the engine, the complete car is as much as 70 kilograms (154.32 lb) lighter than the previous model. The A6 Avant 2.0 TDI, for example, has a curb weight of just 1,640 kilograms (3,615.58 lb). Audi, the sector’s lightweight construction pioneer, has once again reversed the weight spiral.
Another strength of the composite construction body is acoustic comfort. Modern materials and construction methods reduce the interior noise level to that of the luxury class. Audi also offers special insulating/acoustic glazing as an option. The precise matching of all components and sophisticated hydraulic damping in the axle and drivetrain bearings provide for excellent ride comfort.
Spacious and convenient: the luggage compartment
The luggage compartment of the new Audi A6 Avant has a capacity of 565 liters (19.95 cu ft). Its loading lip is low. The split rear seat backs can be easily folded down using the remote seat back release on the sides of the trunk to increase luggage capacity to 1,680 liters (59.33 cu ft). Lashing eyes, side restraining straps, bag hooks, a double cargo floor, a rail luggage fixing system, a dirt-resistant tray and roof rails are standard.
Audi offers additional details as options – a load-through hatch, a fixing set that uses the two standard rails in the cargo floor, and a power rear hatch with an integrated power luggage compartment cover. Making its debut in the Audi A6 Avant is the gesture-based control of the power hatch in combination with the convenience key. If the driver stands behind the car and makes a specific movement with his or her foot, two sensors open the hatch.
The accessories program includes many special features for transporting sports and recreational equipment, from a partition grille to a bicycle rack. The new large Avant is a powerful towing vehicle, with a rated towing capacity of 2,100 kilograms (4,629.71 lb).
Powerful and efficient: the engines
The A6 Avant is available with a choice of six engines featuring direct fuel injection: one four-cylinder unit and five V6 units. Five of them use forced induction to keep displacement relatively low, thus improving their efficiency. The 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp) has the best fuel consumption figures. Paired with the manual transmission, it consumes on average just 5.0 liters of fuel per 100 km (47.04 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 132 g per km (212.43 g/mile).
The 3.0 TDI is available in three variants: with 150 kW (204 hp); with 180 kW (245 hp) – a clean diesel version will follow somewhat later; and the top version with 230 kW (313 hp). The twin-turbo has a two-stage turbocharger group that delivers a maximum boost pressure of up to 3.2 bar, imbuing the 3.0 TDI with superior performance. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes 5.4 seconds (preliminary value); the electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is just a formality.
The 2.8 FSI with 150 kW (204 hp) uses the Audi valvelift system, which varies the lift of the intake valves in two stages as necessary. This allows the engine to breathe easier, increasing torque and reducing fuel consumption. The most powerful gasoline engine in the model series is the supercharged 3.0 TFSI producing 220 kW (300 hp).
All of the engines in the new Audi A6 Avant use the technologies of the Audi modular efficiency platform, including the start-stop system, the recuperation system and the innovative thermal management system that quickly brings the coolant and motor oil up to their operating temperatures. These novel solutions are a major reason why fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 18 percent compared with the previous model.
Something for everyone: the drivetrain
Like many Audi models, the new A6 Avant is available with a wide range of drivetrains. Depending on the engine, Audi offers a six-speed manual, the continuously variable multitronic or the sporty S tronic with seven speeds. The 3.0 TDI with 230 kW (313 hp) delivers its power to a highly efficient eight-speed tiptronic optimized for fast shifts.
The gears in all of the transmissions are widely spaced, a major factor contributing to their efficiency. All of the automatic transmissions are integrated into the engine’s innovative thermal management system. The differential lies in front of the clutch or the torque converter. This enabled the engineers to shift the front axle forward by 71 millimeters (2.80 in) compared with the previous model, to the benefit of both the wheelbase and axle load distribution.
The 2.0 TDI delivers its power to the front wheels. The V6 units are paired either standard or as an option with all-wheel drive. The latest evolution of the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system used in the new A6 Avant features a crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring for superior dynamics, traction and stability. Upon request, Audi will equip all quattro versions with the sport differential, which distributes the power in continuously variable proportions between the rear wheels. So equipped, the Audi A6 Avant rides as if on rails.
Very sophisticated: the chassis
Sporty precision, powerful braking and superior comfort. The chassis of the new Audi A6 Avant combines all of these strengths to a harmonious whole. A five-link construction guides the front wheels; a track-guided trapezoidal-link suspension is used at the back. The wheel control arms are made of aluminum. The power steering is tightly integrated with the new assistance systems and is highly efficient thanks to its new electromechanical drive. It helps the driver to countersteer when braking on a surface with less grip on one side.
Depending on the engine, the standard wheels measure either 16 or 17 inches in diameter, with wheels up to 20 inches in diameter optionally available. Tire sizes range from 225/60 to 255/35. The brake system is designed for high levels of performance and durability.
All versions of the new A6 Avant regardless of the engine are equipped with the Audi drive select driving dynamics system, which allows the custom adjustment of key drivetrain, chassis and assistance systems in four modes – comfort, auto, dynamic and individual. An efficiency mode is also available in all models with forced induction. In this mode, all systems are weighted toward fuel economy. Another standard feature in the front-wheel drive Avant models is the ESP system with electronic limited slip differential, which makes the vehicle even more agile.
Avant customers can also opt for the comfortable adaptive air suspension with variable damping and the sporty dynamic steering, which will be available somewhat later. The dynamic steering system adjusts the steering ratio to the speed driven and supports handling at the limit with light pulses of countersteer. Audi has designed the S line sports package with particularly dynamic drivers in mind. It lowers the body by 30 millimeters (1.18 in) compared with the standard chassis, and includes large wheels, appearance modifications and many special details for the all-black interior.
Top quality: the interior
In the interior of the new Audi A6 Avant, a decorative inlay known as the “wrap-around” encircles the driver and the front-seat passenger. The front of the instrument panel is elegantly curved. The entire interior makes a high-quality and functional impression. It takes up the light style of the exterior. The back seat offers ample passenger room. There are plenty of storage options and cup holders front and rear, with an additional storage package available as an option.
Every last detail in the interior of the A6 Avant demonstrates Audi’s exacting quality standards. All of the materials have been selected and worked with great care. Decorative inlays are available in aluminum and three types of wood, including a very modern, novel veneer of alternating layers of light and dark oak. A piano lacquer variant rounds out the choices. The interior colors harmonize as stylishly as the materials, which include a range of leathers up to exclusive Valcona, a very natural grade.
Audi offers a choice of particularly comfortable and sporty front seats, with the top models featuring ventilation and massage functions. An optional lighting package or the ambient lighting package bathe the interior in subtle, yet dramatic light. There is also a wide range of options when it comes to the steering wheels: three or four spokes, power-adjustable steering column, heated rim and paddles for the automatic transmission.
Intuitive: the ergonomics
Like all Audi models, the new A6 Avant impresses with its logical, easy-to-understand control concept. Its instruments are clearly marked; the display between them – optionally available as the driver information system (DIS) with a five or seven-inch monitor – is controlled from the steering wheel. In the center of the instrument panel is a second, power-retractable monitor that is part of the standard MMI radio control system.
The innovative Audi pre sense basic safety system, a highly efficient automatic air conditioning system optionally available with four-zone controls, an electromechanical parking brake, cruise control and light and rain sensors are also standard. The engine starts with the push of a button. Audi offers an optional head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield in color. Another attractive feature is the onboard computer with efficiency program.
Groundbreaking: Audi connect
One of the many fields of technology where Audi leads the competition is infotainment. A wide range of modules is available in the new A6 Avant, topped by MMI navigation plus with MMI touch. Core features of the large hard drive-based system with the eight-inch monitor can be controlled via the touchpad. Topping the line of hi-fi options is the high-quality Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System that delivers crystal-clear sound from 15 speakers.
One groundbreaking option from Audi are the new features that are combined under the keyword Audi connect. With its UMTS module, the Bluetooth online car phone delivers the Internet to the A6 Avant. Special services are available in collaboration with Google. The graphics card in the navigation system, for example, integrates images and information from Google Earth with the navigation route. A Wi-Fi hotspot provides contact to mobile devices on board.
Two additional services are new to the Audi lineup, and thus to the market as a whole. The Audi online traffic information service draws on the movement profiles of hundreds of thousands of mobile phones in other vehicles to inform drivers in many European countries about traffic levels along the selected route in real time. Points of interest can now be searched for online with Google – particularly conveniently via voice control.
Intelligent: the assistance systems
The MMI navigation plus in the new Audi A6 Avant works closely together with the optional driver assistance and safety systems. It makes its route data available to the control units for the adaptive light headlights, the automatic transmission and the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. This enables these systems to better recognize complex scenarios and support the driver.
The heart of the assistance systems is the radar-based adaptive cruise control with stop & go function, which is active at all speeds between zero and 250 km/h (155.34 mph). It works closely together with Audi pre sense, which is available in a number of configurations. It helps the driver in many situations to reduce the severity of rear-end collisions with the vehicle ahead and their consequences, or even to avoid them all together. The new Audi A6 Avant has an extensive package of restraint systems on board in the event of a collision.
Audi active lane assist intervenes gently in the steering to help the driver keep the A6 Avant in its lane. The park assist system, which is optionally available with a reversing camera, relieves the driver from the hassle of steering when parking or exiting a parking space. The Audi side assist helps the driver when changing lanes; the night vision assistant marks detected pedestrians to make driving in the dark safer; and the speed limit display presents important road signs on the DIS display.
The parking system plus with 360° display, which is a new assistance system at Audi, will follow somewhat later. Four small cameras – at the front, the rear and in the housings of the side mirrors – record images of the A6 Avant’s immediate surroundings. Fast software combines these images, and the driver can call up various views on the large onboard monitor. This technical system enhances safety while maneuvering and when pulling out from areas with obstructed views.
The Audi A6 Avant will begin arriving in showrooms in key European markets in late summer. Its base price is 40,850 euros.
The equipment and data specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.
Source: Audi AG
