Audi upgrades luxury class A6

Ingolstadt, Germany - Audi has announced an upgrade of its luxury A6 class that will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show prior to the complete makeover scheduled for 2011. Visitors are seen at the 'Audi' stand at the Moscow International Automobile Salon 2008 in Moscow, Russia, 26 August 2008. EPA/FRISO GENTSCH

Visitors are seen at the 'Audi' stand at the Moscow International Automobile Salon 2008 in Moscow, Russia, 26 August 2008. EPA/FRISO GENTSCHThe most visible change to the front are the modified headlamps with LED daylight running lights, restyled single-frame grille, bumpers and air vents. Slight modifications have also been made to the rear taillights of both the station wagon and sedan. Efficient engines have been added to the drive-train line-up, cutting fuel consumption by about 15 per cent across the whole model range. An improved suspension and new high-tech assistance system give the driver greater control over the car. Options include adaptive light, a dynamic cornering light system and the high-beam assistant that automatically switches between the high and low beam. Optionally, the back seats can be fitted with a comfortable 2- seater bench. A package of features cuts the noise level by almost half, particularly within critical frequency ranges, according to Audi. The instrument panel uses new higher-resolution graphics; and a new frame accentuates the display colour in the optional MMI navigation system. Audi quattro four-wheel drive is available on all engines with 140 kW/190 hp or above and is standard equipment on high-end aggregates. The S-line sports package includes enhanced performance features like 18-inch wheels and sports suspension that lowers the ride height by 30 millimetres. Sporty seats, decorative inlays and upholstery give the black-trimmed interior a feeling of exclusivity. On sale in Germany from October the basic 2.0 TFSI 4 version will sell for 34,300 euros (50,000 dollars). The engine has an output of 170 hp with a consumption of 7.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The 3.0 TDI 6 with a 240 hp power unit and a consumption of 6.7 litres/100 kilometres will sell for 45,300 euros. The 4.2 FSI 8 with a 350 hp motor and consumption of 10.2/100 kilometres is listed at 64,900 euros. The RS6 sedan that will also be available in October will sell for at least 105,550 euros.