No need to worry—the latest Audi estate retains the A6 name, not the rumored A7. Unveiled as the Audi A6 Avant, this combustion-powered model is the brand’s most

aerodynamic offering with an internal combustion engine to date. Designed to take on rivals like the BMW 5-Series Touring and Mercedes E-Class Estate, it’s a stylish contender in the executive estate segment. We’ve gone hands-on with this sleek wagon in a studio setting, and here’s everything you need to know. Waiting for the saloon? That’s coming soon, so stay patient.

Why the Avant Debuts First

Audi prioritized the Avant because estates dominate its European market, accounting for 87% of A6 Avant demand. China follows with 9%, while the rest of the world makes up just 4%. This reveal caters to Europe’s love for wagons, though the saloon isn’t far behind—Audi’s simply spacing out the launches. The A6 Avant’s design aligns with recent models like the Q6 e-Tron SUV and A5, but it stands apart from the electric A6 e-Tron with a distinct front fascia and unique rear lighting. Highlights include industrial-style headlight lenses with metal fins and customizable light signatures—some even animated—adding flair to its familiar yet refined look.

Aerodynamics and Aesthetics

The A6 Avant’s smooth, flowing lines make it Audi’s slipperiest combustion car ever, though its brown-on-black color scheme might not fully showcase the design’s sharpness. It blends elegance with aggression, setting it apart from its electric sibling while maintaining a cohesive family resemblance.

Inside the A6 Avant: Tech Meets Familiarity

If you’ve seen the interiors of the A5, Q6 e-Tron, or A6 e-Tron, the A6 Avant’s cabin will feel familiar. It features high-quality materials, abundant gloss-black panels with haptic controls, and a massive Digital Stage display integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment. Mattijs van Tuijl, interior creative coordinator, explains, “We aimed for a family feel across these models, but with the A6, technology serves a purpose—not excess.” The Android-based system offers a sleek homepage for frequent functions and a fixed climate control bar, though some might miss physical buttons. The driving position is highly adjustable, visibility beats the 5-Series Touring, and rear space is generous. However, the 503-litre boot lags behind competitors, though it includes practical 40:20:40 split seats, boot rails, and a powered tailgate as standard.

Powertrains and Performance

At launch in the UK, the A6 Avant offers two 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines: a 201bhp TFSI petrol (front-wheel drive, 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds, 149mph top speed) and a 201bhp TDI diesel with quattro AWD and the MHEV Plus system, adding electric-only low-speed driving and a 22bhp boost. A TFSIe plug-in hybrid is slated for later, while performance fans can anticipate the S6 and RS6 with twin-turbo V6s—the latter with electric assistance—plus an all-electric RS6 e-Tron. Suspension options include standard (Sport trim), sport (S line and Edition 1), or optional air springs for extra comfort.

Pricing and Availability

The Audi A6 Avant hits UK showrooms on April 1, 2025, starting at £52,510 for the petrol Sport trim. The diesel begins at £56,780, and the top-tier Edition 1 exceeds £60,000. It’s a premium price for a premium package—ready to compete in the executive estate arena.

By Jake Groves, CAR’s deputy news editor; gamer, trainer freak, and serial Lego-ist