2019 Audi A6 Avant Is Here

If there’s one thing Audi knows to do aside from Quattro all-wheel drive systems, that’s creating handsome station wagons like the all-new A6 Avant.

Following in the footsteps of the redesigned sedan, the new A6 Avant has a wide singleframe grille and more muscular bodywork. Despite its focus on practicality, the wagon has a gently sloping roofline and rakish D-pillars. These styling decisions likely reduce the cargo capacity but they seem like a worthwhile tradeoff as the model has a sportier appearance than its predecessor.

Sticking with the exterior, the standard model comes equipped with LED headlights while range-topping variants offer HD Matrix LED headlights with distinctive daylight running lights. Audi also notes the sporty styling is more than just about looks as the entry-level A6 Avant will have a drag coefficient of 0.27.

The interior largely carries over from the sedan and models equipped with the MMI navigation plus system have a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment system and an 8.6-inch lower display for climate control and convenience features.

An assortment of different options will be available including Valcona leather, open-pore wood trim and custom contour front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions. Customers can also order a head-up display, a panoramic glass sunroof, a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system and an air quality package which has an air ionizer as well as a fragrance diffuser.

Of course, one of the biggest advantages to ordering the Avant is the additional cargo capacity. Audi says the wagon can hold 565 liters (20.0 cu ft) of luggage but that can easily be expanded to 1,680 liters (59.3 cu ft) by folding down the 40:20:40 split rear seats. Other highlights include a power-operated tailgate and luggage cover as well as standard floor rails for securing cargo.

Audi was curiously quiet on performance specifications but engine options should echo the sedan. As a result, we can expect a turbocharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6 with 340 PS (250 kW) and 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque. There should also be a 3.0-liter TDI V6 developing 286 PS (210 kW) and 620 Nm (457 lb-ft) of torque.

While Audi was coy on specifics, the company confirmed all models will have a mild hybrid system with a belt alternator starter and a regenerative braking system that sends power to a lithium-ion battery.

In terms of driving, the A6 Avant has an improved electromechanical steering system with a “sporty” ratio and improved feedback. The model can also be outfitted with an optional dynamic all-wheel steering system which allows the rear wheels to turn up to five degrees at low speeds. Audi says the system helps to reduce the turning circle by up to one meter (3.3 ft).

The A6 will also be offered with four different suspensions including a standard steel spring setup. Other choices include a sport suspension, an adaptive air suspension and a suspension with adjustable shock absorbers.

Like the A8, the A6 Avant can be equipped with an assortment of high-tech driver assistance systems which are supported by up to five radar sensors, five cameras, twelve ultrasonic sensors and a laser scanner.

Audi declined to mention launch details but we’ll likely hear more about the model in the coming months.

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