The new A6 hasn’t even gone on sale in the United States yet, but Audi is already expanding the lineup in Europe. Both the sedan and wagon are now offered as plug-in hybrids based on a four-cylinder engine. A major upgrade over the previous PHEV version is the battery, which now has a net capacity of 20.7 kWh, or about 45 percent more than before. That translates to a solid electric range, potentially enough to handle daily driving without using the engine.
These upscale PHEVs can travel up to 66 miles (106 kilometers) on a single charge in the combined cycle before the combustion engine kicks in. Stick with the slightly lighter sedan, and Audi says you can get up to 69 miles (111 kilometers) in the city. The quickest way to deplete the battery, mounted under the rear section, is to drive on the Autobahn at the electronically limited 87 mph (140 km/h) in EV mode. With the engine running, the plug-in hybrid A6 can hit 155 mph (250 km/h).
Photo by: Audi
Two versions are available: one with 295 hp and another with 362 hp. If those figures sound familiar, it’s because the new A5 plug-in hybrid has identical outputs. The two models are closely related, both riding on the Premium Platform Combustion. Logic tells us that PPC could also underpin Porsche’s upcoming gas-powered Macan successor, which is expected later this decade.
The base A6 PHEV makes 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque and does 0–62 mph (100 km/h) in six seconds flat. Step up to the more powerful version and get 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) and a sprint time of just 5.3 seconds. If you want something quicker, a V-6 3.0-liter mild-hybrid model does the job in 4.7 seconds. Of course, the upcoming S6 and RS6 will be even faster.
The plug-in hybrid is the wise choice for those prioritizing efficiency and want to move on from diesel. Audi has increased AC charging capacity to 11 kW, enabling a full charge in just two and a half hours. Both PHEVs have rear-wheel steering, a dual-clutch automatic transmission, and Quattro all-wheel drive. The 141-horsepower electric motor is integrated into the seven-speed S Tronic gearbox’s housing. Audi says full torque is available “at close to idle speed,” helping these models get off the line effortlessly.
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Source: Audi
The electrified A6 is significantly quieter than its predecessor, thanks to a 30 percent increase in sound insulation. The same improvements apply to conventionally powered versions, which now get acoustic glazing on the rear-side windows and tighter door and window seals. Additional noise reduction comes from foam rings in the tires on cars equipped with 19-inch wheels and larger. Audi also reworked the engine and transmission mount bushings and optimized the shape of the gear teeth to reduce mechanical noise.
In Germany, the A6 Sedan E-Hybrid starts at €65,800 for the base model and from €68,300 for the more powerful version. The more practical A6 Avant E-Hybrid begins at €75,050 and €77,550, respectively. That price gap between the two power levels also reflects added standard equipment like S Line trim inside and out, larger wheels, a sport suspension, and red brake calipers. Deliveries in Europe begin this summer.
