The A6 disappointed many when the announcement of the previous ‘new model’ was in fact the same model, par the addition of LED lights, and new rims. The 2012 A6 promises a whole lot more, covering up the past.
· Design & Engineering:
In essence, the new A6 is simply a slightly less matured face of Audi’s success—the new A8. From the front, the new A6 sports a slightly more avantgarde look, with the adequate and proper use of chrome. Redesigned bi-xenon headlamps plaster the face of the vehicle, with Audi’s refined, abstract LED daytime running lights. One point though—the new A6 feels somewhat flat from the front… From the side, the vehicle does seem a tad bit small, despite the nearly-5-meter length. The same curving/sloping rear windshield seems to be taken from Audi’s more prestigious models, being the A7 and A8—definitely not a bad thing at all. From the rear, this is where critics believe that ‘you either love it or you hate it’. Surprisingly, this new Audi’s bum doesn’t appeal to my senses, despite the use of LED’s, and fierce air-styled curves. Nevertheless, I must give in to the use of twin chrome exhausts, adding for a sexy stance.
· Interior
If the interior doesn’t alleviate ones senses, step into the cabin. Let’s face it—Audi makes one of the world’s best, mass produced interiors. It is here where the A6 surpasses competition from Mercedes (E-Class), BMW (5-Series), Jaguar (XF), and even Lexus (GS300, keep in mind that a new model should make its debut soon). Stepping into the driver’s seat, everything, from the door handle to the tiniest of buttons on the MMI system, feels expensive and exquisite, due to the use of high-end materials from Audi’s magicians. Being the top of the range (for now) A6, the supercharged A6 takes in Audi’s S-Line trim, therefore featuring an S-Line steering wheel, for improved grip. A wraparound dash featured in the A7 makes its debut in the new A6 as well. As the two share the same dashboard, the A6 also features a generously sized and retractable screen for the infotainment system in the middle of the dash, connected to a MMI touch pad and navigation system cluttered by the gear lever. What I adore about Audi is the amount of specification they allow. For instance, in the new A6, A7, and A8, dashboard and door card inlays can be specified to be clad in materials ranging from classic brushed aluminum and multi-coloured leathers, to individually veneered woods of one’s choice. Tasteful, innovative, and captivating—three details which Audi manipulates to captivate its buyers. At the rear, space is not much of a problem, due to the large wheelbase, given the vehicle’s dimensions. Being the premium model, 4-zone climate control comes as standard, therefore allowing rear occupants to be as toasty or as frozen as they want. Once again, Bose speakers or space age Bang & Olufsen speakers. Other goodies such as a heads up display, air suspension, night vision assistance, and other optional extras, come at a cost—adding up to a relatively considerable amount. Hence, be aware of options one chooses when purchasing an Audi.
· Ride & Handling
Audi claims that vis-à-vis version of the A6; the new A6 should be about 80kg lighter than its predecessor. A lighter car has many more benefits, such as improved handling, performance, and fuel consumption. The 3.0-liter supercharged heartbeat under the bonnet is essentially the same V6 featured in Audi’s S4 and S5 models, though tuned down from 333BHP to 300BHP in the A6. Nevertheless, the executive saloon is still speedy and quirky be it in a straight line or around corners. Compared to rivals such as Mercedes’ E350 and BMW’s 535i saloons, the A6 speeds past them, reaching 0-100km/h in a stunning 5.5 seconds. In addition, the V6 emits a snarly growl, racing heartbeats and palpitations to a second degree. Mated to a seven-speed S-Tronic transmission, the A6 shifts well and sportily—a match make in heaven. With Quattro all wheel drive, the A6 is consistent in all conditions. If one chooses the optional air suspension, a supple drive is ensured due to the adaptability of the chassis and suspension. Take into consideration that Mercedes uses air suspension as a standard feature, only in their top of the range, S-Class.
· Verdict
Dynamic and well-sorted drive, love or hate looks, superb interior. Expensive options make one think again. Nevertheless, who could resist a supercharged V6?
o Pictures from:
o http://media.caranddriver.com/images/11q3/411690/2012-audi-a6-avant-interior-photo-411719-s-1280x782.jpg
1 comment:
Better than the BMW 5 series, and the E class. But costly as with any Teutonic ride. Lives up to its Vorsprung durch Technik tagline. But the bosses will still like to keep that 3 pointed star on its hood that guarantees a much better resale value. Plus the new Lexus GS should undercut it in price and value.
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