Audi unveils official information for facelifted A6 family | Sedans

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Audi unveils official information for facelifted A6 family

Written by Evan Powell

Tuesday, 12 August 2008

Audi’s booth at this year’s Paris Motor Show will be a busy one, with several new and facelifted models taking the stage. Joining the new RS6 Sedan will be the mid-cycle facelift for the standard A6 Sedan and Avant models. Among the list of updates planned for the new lineup is a range of more efficient engines, significant suspension refinements, the addition of a number of safety assistance systems, and a new-generation ‘MMI’ in-car computer interface.

The most significant upgrade for the 2009 facelifted A6 is without doubt the new range of engines. New measures have been introduced to optimise fuel consumption without sacrificing performance, with fuel economy over the whole A6 family being lowered by 15%. The improvements are brought about by the addition of a power steering pump that operates on demand, an alternator that regenerates electrical energy when the vehicle is coasting, a lowered ride-height and other aerodynamic fine-tuning. Also new is Audi’s latest valve lift system, which manages the inlet valve timing for improved torque levels.

Wide range of choices, both petrol and diesel
The smallest petrol engine is the 2.0-litre TFSI, a 125kW turbocharged four-cylinder unit. At the other end of the spectrum is the 4.2-litre FSI, a 257kW V8. The other petrol units include two new 2.8-litre FSI engines, developing 140kW and 162kW respectively, and a brand new 213kW 3.0-litre V6 TFSI supercharged mill. This latter engine comes standard with tiptronic auto and quattro AWD, and is capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds and on to an electronically controlled top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption checks in at 9.5L/100km for the mixed cycle.

The new diesel lineup consists of an entry-level 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI with 100kW and is followed by a 125kW version of the same engine. Next up the line is a 2.7-litre V6 TDI with 140kW and 380Nm of torque, and this is followed by a 3.0-litre V6 oil-burner with 176kW and 450Nm of torque. The most fuel efficient model is the 2.0-litre TDIe (efficiency model), which requires just 5.3L/100km for the European combined cycle.

Audi quattro four-wheel drive is available on all engines with 140kW or above and is standard equipment on high-end models. Under normal conditions, the torque split of the quattro system is 40% to the front wheels and 60% to the rear. The mechanically-operated Torsen differential immediately diverts most of the power to the axle with the least grip, providing better traction whenever the need arises – in extreme cases, up to 65% to the front or 85% to the rear.

Other mechanical changes for the 2009 A6 lineup include new large-diameter front-axle shock absorbers and modified spring rates. Optional equipment includes an adaptive air suspension that enables the driver to choose from three levels of response for the adaptive shock absorber settings.

Interior and exterior appearance upgrades mark the mid-cycle cars apart
Cosmetic changes will also feature among the central elements of the facelifted model. Changes include a revised single-frame grille, restyled bumpers, larger air vents and new-shape fog lights. The optional xenon and LED daytime running lights package has also been updated, redesigned as horizontal strips with 6 LEDs each. A new adaptive and dynamic cornering headlight system and a high-beam assistant to automatically switch between high and low beams is also available.

The new Audi side assist kicks in to help drivers when changing lanes at speeds over 30 km/h, helping ensure safety and reducing collisions. Using radar sensors, Audi Side Assist is able to detect other cars up to 50 metres away. To let the driver know of a potential hazard, a signal on the outside mirror lights up should changing lanes pose a threat. Audi lane assist helps keep drivers in their own lane, while radar-assisted adaptive cruise control keeps a steady distance to the vehicle ahead, and the parking system features a rear-view camera to guide the car safely into its intended location. Video output, whether from the navigation system or the backup camera, is handled via a clear and high-contrast 7inch touchscreen display located in the centre of the dash.

At 4.93m long, 1.86m wide, and 1.46m high, little has changed in the sedan’s proportions. The gentle lip on the trunk, integrated chrome strip on the bumper, broad diffuser and straight exhaust pipes complete the list of changes at the rear. There are also five new exterior colours to choose from, bringing the total number of choices to thirteen. Inside, the cars receive an updated instrument panel, new chrome trim and optional Valcona leather for the seats. The sporty S-line package is once again available at launch, coming with 18inch wheels and a 30mm lowered suspension kit.

The facelifted Audi A6 will be available in European showrooms this October, with Australian sales likely to start early next year. The company has focused on offering enhanced features and value without significantly raising pricing, however, so expect retail figures close to the current 2.0-litre TFSI model’s $75,900 base price.

Audi A6 Sedan and Avant facelift gallery

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