A First Class Flight On Four Wheels – The New Audi A6 and S6 Sedan
The A6 is one of Audi’s staples among the likes of the A3, A4 and A8. The executive sedan has been rivalling the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class for years and it seems that 2020 may be the A6’s big year, especially considering how put together this new model is.
Audi is serious about pushing the envelope when it comes to cutting-edge automotive technology like digitalisation, electrification and intelligent driving systems. The A6 features these characteristics in abundance, making it one of the most modern competitors in its class. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is due to be replaced soon and the current model is a bit long in the tooth. The same goes for the BMW 5-Series, although its sporty dynamics have a significant advantage over the Audi. Surely this would make the A6 the obvious choice to current buyers.
The design of the new Audi A6 and Audi S6 Sedans are aligned with Audi’s new language, incorporating sleek lights at the front and back with an aggressive honeycomb grille at the front, flaunting the four-rings. Fake pipes are still a thing at the back, although the hypnotic LED taillights with the dynamic indicators do well to distract the eyes away from them. The interior design reflects the executive, premium feel that is exuded from the exterior. Electrically adjustable seats with memory function is standard across the range, while options like the panoramic sunroof flood the interior with radiant sun light.
The technology featured in the Audi A6 and S6 is on par with the latest Audi’s like the Audi A7 and the Audi Q8. The intuitive Audi MMI is displayed on a massive smartphone-like touch display at the center with a second screen below that to control things like the A/C and the seats. Virtual Cockpit, Audi’s digital instrument cluster, also features in the A6, treating the driver to a customisable view of their speed, fuel economy, media, phone contacts or, one of the favourites, a full screen map for navigation.
The Audi A6 range will feature two diesel derivatives and one petrol derivative. A 2.0-litre TDI engine kicks off the range with 140 kW and 400 Nm in the 40TDI model; followed by a 3.0-litre TDI with 183 kW and 600 Nm in the 45TDI model. The range-topping Audi S6 is the only model available with a petrol engine for now, specifically a 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 with 331 kW and 600 Nm. All models are fitted with automatic transmissions as standard.
Pricing:
- Audi A6 40 TDI S tronic R 885,000
- Audi A6 45 TDI quattro tiptronic R 1,059,000
- Audi S6 TFSI quattro tiptronic R 1,349,500
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi A6 cost in South Africa?
The Audi A6 starts from around R890,000 for the base model in South Africa, while the S6 will set you back approximately R1,450,000, making it a proper premium purchase that competes directly with the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class.
Q: Is the Audi A6 worth buying over the BMW 5-Series?
The A6 is absolutely worth considering over the 5-Series if you prioritise cutting-edge tech and interior luxury, though the BMW still has the edge when it comes to sporty driving dynamics and that classic rear-wheel-drive feel.
Q: What engine options are available in the new Audi A6?
The A6 range offers a 2.0-litre TFSI petrol engine producing around 180kW, while the S6 packs a punchy 2.9-litre V6 TFSI twin-turbo engine delivering 331kW, giving you proper performance when you need it.
Q: How fuel efficient is the Audi A6 in real-world driving?
The standard A6 2.0 TFSI delivers around 7.5 litres per 100km in combined driving conditions, which is pretty decent for an executive sedan of this size and performance level.
Q: What tech features come standard in the Audi A6?
Every A6 comes with the dual-screen MMI infotainment system, Virtual Cockpit digital instruments, electrically adjustable seats with memory, and LED headlights, making it one of the most tech-loaded sedans in its class.
Should You Buy It?
The best executive sedan for tech lovers under R1,000,000 in South Africa is definitely the Audi A6, starting at R890,000. If you want a car that feels like a first-class flight on four wheels and prioritise having the latest gadgets over sporty handling, the A6 is your machine. However, if you're after pure driving thrills or want to save some cash, the BMW 5-Series or even waiting for the new Mercedes E-Class might be worth considering. The S6 at R1,450,000 is harder to recommend unless you absolutely need that extra performance, as you're paying a hefty premium for the privilege.
