New Audi A6 Avant driven: Does this fresh big estate recipe leave a sweet taste?

If you’re looking for a big estate car, the Audi A6 Avant has been a go-to option for years. Now there’s a new A6 Avant that represents a stylish and premium option for buyers who need family-friendly carrying capacity, just like its predecessors did, but piles-on a mountain of clever technology. Here’s what you really need to know about it.

The Audi A6 Avant boasts an eye-catching design that helps position it as an alternative, style-led estate in a large premium family car market increasingly dominated by SUVs. Its sleek body, with thin headlights and a hexagonal grille, is typical Audi estate and plays up to the executive image. Inside, the build quality is impressive in a tech-rich cabin that reaffirms Audi's reputation for cutting-edge design. The complicated infotainment system can feel overwhelming for some users, especially those used to more traditional interfaces, but it’s fast to respond and looks great.

Currently, the A6 Avant comes equipped with a choice of two engines: a petrol 2.0-litre TFSI and a diesel 2.0-litre TDI, both delivering 201bhp. They feature mild-hybrid technology, which helps improve fuel efficiency but these engines have been around a while and might not be as economical as similar units offered in rival models. 

The A6 Avant performs well on the motorway, offering a comfortable and smooth ride. On twistier roads enthusiastic drivers may find that it lacks excitement - especially since neither engine option is particularly fast; expect a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds for the petrol model and 7 seconds for the diesel. At least the well-insulated cabin  keeps road and wind noise down—ideal for long journeys. 

Rear seat space and a boot capacity of 503 litres aren’t spectacular compared to rivals like the Mercedes E-Class Estate, which offers significantly more room in the rear. While the A6 has thoughtful interior features like good storage options and plenty of USB-C ports for passengers, it does sacrifice some overall practicality in the name of style. 

Fuel economy figures are reasonably achievable but don’t set new benchmarks. The petrol variant manages around 37.1mpg and emits 173g/km of CO2, while the diesel performs slightly better with 48.7mpg and 153g/km. For those seeking efficiency, it’s worth holding out for upcoming plug-in hybrid models that promise better fuel economy and lower tax rates, especially for company car drivers.

Verdict

The Audi A6 Avant is a visually appealing and tech-packed estate car that balances comfort and style very nicely. However, practicality takes a bit of a backseat, so if you're looking for maximum boot space and rear legroom, you might find better options elsewhere, such as the BMW 5 Series Touring or Mercedes E-Class Estate. For the full verdict, read our in-depth Audi A6 Avant review.