Audi unwraps 2018 A6 Avant 11 | 04 | 2018

EVEN BEFORE THE new Audi A6 has reached Scottish dealerships, the German carmaker has revealed the Avant estate version. set to go head-to-head with the likes of the Mercedes E-Class estate and BMW 5 Series Touring, the A6 Avant will go on-sale in Scotland in the summer priced from around £40,000. (Related: Shedden fired-up for world bid with Audi)

The new model is slightly larger than its predecessor – 10mm longer, 20mm wider and 6mm taller — but thanks to an extended wheelbase, both front and rear overhangs have been reduced. The result is increased space in the cabin, particularly for rear passengers. (Related: Audi reveals new A6 with mild-hybrid)

Most noticeable is the more rakish tailgate (which Audi says is a design nod to the original 100 Avant). Despite the new sporty look, stowage space in the boot — which is the same as its predecessor — actually extends from 565 litres to 1680 litres, depending on whether the rear seats are up or down.

The storage space is further aided by the fact there are new functions that allow the 40:20:40-split rear seats to be laid almost flat at the push of a button. There’s also an optional feature that allows the boot to be opened by the key holder waving their foot under the rear bumper. (Related: Roadtest — Audi RS4 Avant)

As you would expect, apart from the rear of the Avant, the rest of the car echoes the styling of the A6 saloon. The front is dominated by Audi’s familiar grille — which now makes a point of showing the car’s laser and distance sensors — and is flanked by a 3D effect to the headlights.

Back at the rear, there’s a small roof spoiler, sizeable D-pillars, and a chrome strip which runs across the back. In keeping with Audi tradition, S line models will get different bumpers, plus winglets at the front and a diffuser at the rear.

Inside the Avant … well, it’s traditional Audi: which is no bad thing. As you would expect, build quality is peerless and the dashboard is dominated by Audi’s latest dual-screen infotainment, while the company’s Virtual Cockpit and head-up display will also be available. There’s also haptic feedback that gives you a fingertip sensation to confirm that an on-screen button as been ‘pressed’.

The A6 Avant also benefits from an advanced parking camera set-up which allows you to see what’s going on around the vehicle. It closely resembles the overhead view you get with the Volvo system; both make you feel you’re being monitored by a drone.

Not surprisingly, the engine line-up will mirror that of the saloon, with petrol or diesel V6s, all featuring 48-volt mild-hybrid tech and quattro four-wheel drive. While the 50 TDI will have a 282bhp 3.0-litre diesel, it’s likely the UK range will also include  a 228bhp version of the same motor. There’s also a V6 335bhp petrol 55 TFSI.

Towards the end of 2018, the range will be further supplemented by a four-cylinder 201bhp 2.0TDI. Not surprisingly, there will also be an RS6 Avant. All Avants are fitted with auto transmissions.

Related: Roadtest — Audi R8 V10 Plus

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Jim McGill