2018 Geneva Motor Show: 2018 Audi A6

Audi chose to unveil the next generation of its large luxury sedan at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, with the 2018 Audi A6 unveiled to the world. Now sitting on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform, the new A6 is larger in every dimension compared with its predecessor.

Sitting on MLB also allows for a weight saving on all models, as well as the standard inclusion of mild-hybrid technology on all engine variants as standard equipment. The new A6 also includes semi-autonomous driving technology such as total self-parking, and has been confirmed to go on sale in Australia before the end of 2018.

According to Audi, the 2018 Audi A6 “Brings numerous innovations to the segment. Whether in terms of digitalisation, comfort or sportiness – the elegantly sculptured Audi A6 showcases a range of new talents in the luxury class.”

“The interior systematically adopts digitalisation and is ground-breaking in its segment. The suspension combines smooth ride comfort and excellent stability with enhanced sportiness. All engines have a mild-hybrid system as standard equipment for convenience and efficiency.”

Stylistically, the 2018 Audi A6 is an example of evolutionary design, but in a good way – you certainly know which brand makes the car. The 2018 Audi A6 appears sportier than the model it replaces, with the brand working hard to produce a sportier-looking car with shorter overhangs, a wider-looking front thanks to the new Audi corporate grille and sharp lines throughout the car’s design. A drag coefficient of just 0.24 contributes to the car’s sleeker look, and helps it to be the most fuel efficient A6 yet.

Whilst the exterior comes from the same styling theme as the previous model of A6, the interior of the 2018 Audi A6 is completely different. Gone is the tablet-style infotainment screen and MMI controller, instead replaced with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, an optional 12.3-inch version of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital driver’s display and Audi’s latest entertainment system with newly-digital climate controls sitting underneath with an 8.6-inch touch display.

Now sitting on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB platform, the 2018 Audi A6 is longer, wider and taller than the car it replaces. Its 4939mm overall length is 7mm longer, its 1886mm width is 12mm wider and 1457mm height 2mm taller. This translates into more interior room, with Audi claiming that this is the roomiest A6 ever produced – though, no figures were released to support this claim.

A new range of engines will be offered in the 2018 Audi A6 when it launches in Australia. Only two engines have been confirmed for European market release at launch, with the 250kW/500Nm turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto the petrol option, and the 210kW/620Nm turbocharged V6 diesel with an eight-speed auto as the diesel option. Within time however, a range of petrol and diesel engine options will be released, including smaller 2.0-litre variants, and a larger 4.0-litre V8 in both the S6 and RS6.

All engine variants are also equipped with the company’s 48V mild-hybrid technology, with a smart belt-alternator starter and a lithium-ion battery, the new A6 can coast between 55 and 160km/h, whilst the car’s stop/start system kicks in at 22km/h. This contributes to a fuel economy saving of up to 0.7L/100km, according to Audi.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the 2018 Audi A6 is that like the A7 and A8 before it, it is equipped with semi-autonomous driver assistance technology beyond the usual radar cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. Using Audi’s parking pilot and garage pilot, the A6 will drive in or out of parking spaces and garages while the driver monitors the car from their smartphone – drivers must hold the relevant button down the whole time to ensure the system works. Audi’s AI autonomous driving technology has not filtered down to the A6, however – yet.

The 2018 Audi A6 has been confirmed to go on sale in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2018 with both V6 engine options as well as smaller 2.0-litre units stepping in as the entry models. For now, only the sedan bodystyle has been confirmed for Australia, though like the current range, we expect at least the incoming Allroad and RS6 variants of the Avant wagon to also join the range within due course.

Stay tuned to Chasing Cars for news and reviews regarding the Audi range.