- The 2026 Audi A6 sedan enters a new generation with a smoother design and a tech-centric interior.
- Along with slippery new bodywork, the redesigned A6’s dash is a haven for screens, and U.S. models have a 362-hp turbocharged V-6.
- While the European version (pictured here) goes on sale first, the U.S. lineup will arrive later this year and likely start at around $65,000.
Audi whetted our appetite for the newest generation of the A6 by first revealing the longroof Avant. Now, the German automaker has pulled the covers off its three-box counterpart, with the 2026 Audi A6 sedan making its European debut. While models sold in the United States will have some differences, today’s reveal gives us a good idea of what to expect. A Slipperier SedanThe new A6’s subdued design is still recognizable, but the mid-size luxury sedan has a more assertive face, and its bodywork is slipperier, with a drag coefficient of 0.23. That’s the lowest of any gas-powered Audi, undercutting the recently revealed A6 Avant (0.25). You might need to take some notes to avoid confusion, because there’s also the Audi A6 e-tron EV. We’re happy that the gas-burning A6 sedan looks different enough not to qualify as an identical twin, although the family ties are apparent. The regular A6 has a handsome appearance highlighted by distinct character lines and intricately detailed headlights and taillights. The lighting elements, specifically, can be customized with different patterns, but U.S. regulations currently prohibit their ability to communicate with other drivers as in other markets.The latest-generation A6 rides on Audi’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) platform, which also underpins the new A5 sedan and Q5 SUV. This architecture includes state-of-the-art electronics that help future-proof the A6. The sedan’s standard suspension has been improved, and it’s joined by a ride-lowering sport suspension. The third choice is an optional air suspension that Audi says helps the car handle better. For the first time, you can also use voice controls to raise or lower the ride height. The A6 also offers rear-axle steering for even better maneuverability. Wheel sizes range between 19 and 21 inches, and the larger set can be optioned with grippier summer tires. Stopping power is now handled by a new brake-by-wire system.The 2026 Audi A6 stretches 196.5 inches long, about 2.4 inches more than before. Its waistline is about the same, though, and so is its 115.1-inch wheelbase. Pop around to the back, and it still has a traditional trunk instead of a hidden hatchback like the A6 e-tron and A7. Behind the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat, there’s 18 cubic feet of storage space, and to make access easier, the trunk lid can be opened with a foot gesture.Inside LookAudi’s latest interior design prioritizes tech, and the A6’s dashboard is packed with screens. The driver faces an 11.9-inch gauge cluster, but another 14.5-inch touchscreen is always nearby. Called the “Digital Stage,” the setup can be configured with a third screen that faces the front passenger. The A6’s roster of desirable features also includes a customizable head-up display (now with audio controls), ambient lighting with selectable colors, and four-zone climate control. For those who want the ultimate sound experience, Audi offers a Bang & Olufsen system with up to 20 speakers. Not only is the A6’s interior covered in attractive materials, including a selection of upholstery choices, but Audi claims the cabin is 30 percent quieter than before. This is due to better sound insulation that results from tighter door and window seals, improved powertrain mounts, and the newly available laminated rear windows. The panoramic glass roof has a “digital curtain” function that allows individual sections to be darkened to block out the light or left clear to show the outside world.Powertrain and PriceWhile Audi is waiting to release more specific details about the U.S.-spec A6 sedan, we know the one we’re getting will have a single powertrain. Gone is the old 261-hp 2.0-liter turbo-four base engine. The lone option will be a familiar turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6, which now makes 362 horsepower (up from 335). That engine pairs with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive.Fuel-economy estimates and pricing are not out yet. However, we estimate the 2026 Audi A6 will start at around $65,000 when it goes on sale sometime in the second half of this year.Related StoriesEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si.
Source: caranddriver.com
