2025 Audi A6 Avant: A Tempting Wagon for European Roads
Audi has just revealed the latest addition to its lineup: the A6 Avant. Positioned to compete directly with the BMW 5 Series Touring, this sleek wagon won’t be available in the United States. For European longroof enthusiasts, the choice between these two models will likely be a tough one.
Exterior Design
The A6 Avant made its debut in a striking shade of Madeira Brown metallic. It features narrower headlights, larger air intakes on the front bumper sides, and a wider front grille. This gives the car a more aggressive appearance, though some might find it a bit busier.
One notable design element that sets the A6 Avant apart is the real exhaust tips at the rear, which pair well with the black diffuser under the rear bumper. Both models offer a variety of alloy wheel designs, with the 21-inch wheels on the showcased model looking particularly appealing. The A6 Avant is slightly shorter and narrower than the 5 Series. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to personal preference, with the A6 offering a more aggressive look and the 5 Series a more restrained design.
Interior Design
The 5 Series Touring offers more storage space (1,700 liters) than the A6 Avant (1,534 liters) because it’s slightly larger overall. Both models feature a 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench. Inside, both wagons feature extensive screen displays, and Audi even includes one for the front passenger. They both have square-bottom steering wheels and a limited number of physical buttons, as most controls are now integrated into the touchscreen. Again, the similarities outweigh the differences, and the choice often comes down to individual taste.
Performance
Performance versions of the A6 Avant haven’t been fully unveiled. Until the S6 Avant or a potential RS6 Avant with a V8 engine is released, the car’s upper limits remain to be seen. The standard A6 Avant will offer three engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, a 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder, and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. All engines come with quattro all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. Both the V6 and diesel variants feature mild hybrid technology.
The top-tier V6 engine delivers 270 kW (367 PS, 362 horsepower) and 550 Newton-meters (406 pound-feet) of torque. In contrast, the top-spec BMW Tourer boasts 360 kW (489 hp), a significant power advantage. BMW has historically provided a more engaging driving experience.
Technology
Both the A6 Avant and 5 Series Touring feature a wealth of screen real estate, offering a wide array of tech features. The A6 Avant features ChatGPT-integrated infotainment, while BMW offers AirConsole for in-car gaming. Both models include all the modern technological features expected in a luxury vehicle. However, the 5 Series has a slight advantage in usability with its physical iDrive controller. The A6 Avant is a good-looking vehicle, even if US buyers won’t be able to get it. Given its attributes, an RS or Allroad version might be welcomed for those seeking a stylish Audi wagon stateside. A sedan variant of the A6 is slated for a US release, but it likely won’t match the coolness factor of the Avant.
What are your thoughts on the new A6 Avant?
