Audi->ke14 has just revealed the A6->ke934 Avant in Berlin. The Avant is the most successful business-class station wagon in Europe and the new model will be offered with a choice of six engines with an 18% fuel consumption, a lightweight body, and many additional innovations.

The base version will be offered with a 177 HP 2.0 TDI engine, while the top model gets a 313 HP 3.0 TDI engine. The 2.0L TDI version is the most impressive when it comes to fuel economy with a total of 47 mpg on the highway.

Like with all the other models, the A6 Avant will also get a S-Line sports package that will lower the body by 30 millimeters and includes large wheels, appearance modifications, and many special details for the all-black interior.

The seventh generation Audi A6 Avant will go on sale on the European markets in late summer 2011 with a base price of 40,850 euros - or about $58,000 at the current exchange rates.

Hit the jump to read more about the new Audi A6 Avant.

2012 Audi A6 Avant

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Audi A6 Avant
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 313
  • Transmission: six-speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The A6 Avant measures 16.17 ft in length, but still maintains an agile first impression. Its proportions are sporty and the low roof line flows into flat D-pillars. Audi also offers LED headlights and rear lights as an option.

The front of the Audi is defined by a single-frame grille featuring angular upper corners and high-gloss black struts with optional LED headlights, which use light-emitting diodes for all functions. The engine hood stretches out far to the front, while the rear is further accentuated by rear lights and the exhaust system’s two tailpipes.

The new A6 is 154.32 lbs lighter than the previous model, thanks to the use of aluminum components, which make up roughly 20 per cent of the body. Another benefit of the new model is the luggage compartment which has a capacity of 565 liters, but can be opened up to 1,680 liters the rear seat backs are folded down. Luggage lashing eyes, side restraining straps, bag hooks, a double cargo floor, a rail luggage fixing system, a dirt-resistant tray, and roof rails are standard, while a through-load facility and a fixing set that uses the two standard rails in the cargo floor are optional.

Interior

The car's interior is defined by a high-quality and functional impression. While entering the car, the driver will notice a decorative inlay known as the "wrap-around" that encircles the driver and the front-seat passenger, while the back seat offers ample passenger room. There are plenty of storage options and cup holders in the front and the rear with an additional storage package available as an option.

The decorative inlays are available in aluminum and three types of wood, including a very modern, novel veneer of alternating layers of light and dark oak. As an option, customers can opt for a piano lacquer variant and a range of leathers, including exclusive Valcona.

The top models will be offered with comfortable and sporty front seats featuring ventilation and massage functions. There is also a wide range of options when it comes to the steering wheels: three or four spokes, power-adjustable steering column, heated rim, and paddles for the automatic transmission.

Engine

The new A6 Avant will be offered with a choice of six engines featuring direct fuel injection: one four-cylinder unit and five V6 units. The base version will be powered by a 2.0 TDI engine that delivers 177 HP and a fuel economy of 47.04 US mpg. The next engine is a 3.0 TDI engine offered in three variants: 204 HP, 245 HP, and, the top version, 313 HP. The 313 HP version delivers a reported 0 to 60 mph sprint time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed limited to 155 mph.

The gasoline line-up starts with a 2.8 FSI engine with 204 hp, while the top version is a 3.0 TFSI producing 300 hp.

All of the engines in the new Audi A6 Avant use the technologies of the Audi modular efficiency platform, including the start-stop system, the recuperation system and the innovative thermal management system that quickly brings the coolant and motor oil up to their operating temperatures. Depending on the model, the A6 will be offered with a six-speed manual, the continuously variable multitronic, or the sporty S tronic with seven speeds.

Prices

The new Audi A6 Avant will go on sale on the European markets in late summer 2011 at a base price of 40,850 euros - or about $58,000 at the current exchange rates.

Competition

Does the new A6 Avant have everything it needs to take on its biggest competitors: the Mercedes E-Class and the BMW 5-Series? To put it simply, Yes, we think it does. The new A6 combines a great exterior look with a luxurious interior, and it also delivers an impressive fuel economy. It's not every day that anyone will get the chance to drive a luxury car with an impressive 47.04 US mpg.

The Mercedes E-Class is offered with a choice of three diesel and two gas burning engines, with outputs ranging from 168 HP to 382 HP. The 5-Series comes with a choice of two straight-six petrol engines as well as a four-cylinder and a six-cylinder diesel, with power ranging from 184 HP to 306 HP.