2009 Audi A6 Bows in Moscow and Here

Long before it hits U.S. shores, the 2009 Audi A6 is being shown off at this month's Moscow auto show--and later this fall at the Paris auto show.

Audi released photos and details of the updated A6 this week, describing its more efficient engines, improved suspension tuning, and upgraded Multi-Media Interface (MMI) controller.

The obvious changes come up front, where Audi's single-frame grille is flanked by a reshaped bumper that puckers more like that on the 2009 Audi A4. The air vents and fog lights have been reshaped, and new xenon LED daytime running lights are faired into the headlamp shape. Dynamic and adaptive lighting is an option on the new A6; the taillamps have been restyled, as well.

Inside, the A6 gets L-shaped headrests and a new option for a two bucket seats in the back. New gauges are clearer and sharper, and more chrome surrounds a choice of wood or aluminum trim. Sport seats and upgraded leather are offered, as is an S-line sports package that includes 18-inch wheels, a lower ride height, and distinctive interior trim.

Engines range from a 170-horsepower turbocharged four, to a 4.2-liter V-8 with 350 hp. A pair of V-6s with direct injects make 190 or 220 hp; their blended fuel economy averages about 28 mpg. A supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 makes 290 horsepower, and comes standard with a tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The supercharged engine scoots to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, Audi promises. Three diesels are offered, including a 3.0-liter V-6.

U.S. versions will get a 300-horsepower version of the supercharged V-6 with 310 pound-feet of torque and standard quattro. The new Avant wagon will only come in this powertrain configuration, they add.

Manual and automatic transmissions are offered. Audi's quattro system, when ordered, has a stock torque split of 40:60. An air suspension is available, as are run-flat tires and bigger brakes. Side assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control are options.

Audi's MMI system gets a joystick on its controller for more intuitive operation, and the navigation system offered now includes a 40GB hard drive to store information and music, as well as a bird's-eye view.

Sedan and Avant wagon body styles are offered. An all-road quattro version gets the 290-hp supercharged engine or a diesel, while the S6 retains its 435-hp V-10. The new RS 6 has a 580-hp V-10 and is covered in the blog above.

Stay tuned for more on the new A6 as it approaches its U.S. launch--until then, you can indulge in some high-resolution photos. 2009 Audi A6Enlarge PhotoLong before it hits U.S. shores, the 2009 Audi A6 is being shown off at this month's Moscow auto show--and later this fall at the Paris auto show. Audi released photos and details of the updated A6 this week, describing its more efficient engines, improved suspension tuning, and upgraded Multi-Media Interface (MMI) controller. The obvious changes come up front, where Audi's single-frame grille is flanked by a reshaped bumper that puckers more like that on the 2009 Audi A4. The air vents and fog lights have been reshaped, and new xenon LED daytime running lights are faired into the headlamp shape. Dynamic and adaptive lighting is an option on the new A6; the taillamps have been restyled, as well. Inside, the A6 gets L-shaped headrests and a new option for a two bucket seats in the back. New gauges are clearer and sharper, and more chrome surrounds a choice of wood or aluminum trim. Sport seats and upgraded leather are offered, as is an S-line sports package that includes 18-inch wheels, a lower ride height, and distinctive interior trim. Engines range from a 170-horsepower turbocharged four, to a 4.2-liter V-8 with 350 hp. A pair of V-6s with direct injects make 190 or 220 hp; their blended fuel economy averages about 28 mpg. A supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 makes 290 horsepower, and comes standard with a tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The supercharged engine scoots to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds, Audi promises. Three diesels are offered, including a 3.0-liter V-6. U.S. versions will get a 300-horsepower version of the supercharged V-6 with 310 pound-feet of torque and standard quattro. The new Avant wagon will only come in this powertrain configuration, they add. Manual and automatic transmissions are offered. Audi's quattro system, when ordered, has a stock torque split of 40:60. An air suspension is available, as are run-flat tires and bigger brakes. Side assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control are options. Audi's MMI system gets a joystick on its controller for more intuitive operation, and the navigation system offered now includes a 40GB hard drive to store information and music, as well as a bird's-eye view. Sedan and Avant wagon body styles are offered. An all-road quattro version gets the 290-hp supercharged engine or a diesel, while the S6 retains its 435-hp V-10. The new RS 6 has a 580-hp V-10 and is covered in the blog above. Stay tuned for more on the new A6 as it approaches its U.S. launch--until then, you can indulge in some high-resolution photos.