My FH5 Log: A tribute to the RS6 Avant

From the time you obtained it as a DLC car in Forza Horizon 2 to the moment you've got it as a prize car in the Forza Horizon 5's High Performance Dry Season Playlist, the Audi RS6 Avant is proven to be the ultimate station wagon only the privileged can indulge on.

With the C7 and the C8 versions present in Forza Horizon 5, it's time to find out how much the RS6 Avant has changed as the legend unparalleled in its unique combination of high-performance and wagon practicality, melding its racing pedigree with utility as Audi claims.

Beginning with the C7 RS6 Avant, or should I say the facelifted C7 RS6 Avant, it comes with the 4.0L V8 TFSi engine which develops 560PS of power and 700Nm of torque and it's connected to an 8-speed tiptronic transmission. 0-100kph takes about 3.9 seconds and it will go on up to 305kph. Although this car is made for the trip to the grocery, the RS6 Avant is an all-rounder thanks to its legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.

Now, the C8 RS6 Avant. For the first time ever, it's available Stateside with a starting price of 121,900 US Dollars plus additional costs. This model is powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with a 48-volt electrical system and cylinder-on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. This engine produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. Aside from that, it comes with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control. Combined with the legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system, the result is a more enjoyable driving experience everywhere all at once.

After having my huge impressions of both generations of the RS6 Avant, it's time to pit these two on a quick climb to the top of the caldera, just to find out how much the RS6 Avant has evolved. Without further ado, let's roll the tape.

With their deed done, here are the results;

RS6 Avant C7: 3m24.671s

RS6 Avant C8: 3m20.317s

It took nearly four seconds to have the RS6 Avant evolve from the C7 to the C8. Let's be honest, it may not be the best RS6 Avant ever made but it's certainly the super wagon the world knows at its peak. Hey, this isn't even its final form, you know.

I admit that the C8-spec Audi RS6 Avant isn't even in its final form but in the age of the new normal, it will be dearly missed by the time Audi's electrification strategy shifts into maximum overdrive. If so, the RS6 Avant will go down in history as the forbidden fruit only the privileged can indulge in thanks to its unique combination of high performance and wagon practicality.

The more you know. Good day to you, Sir/Ma'am, and enjoy your new ride.

Audi RS6 Avant C8 and RS7 C8

The best RS Audis in the stable, the RS6 Avant and the RS7 Sportback, are back in the latest C8 generation and the newest incarnations of the so-called best Audis have been uncaged on the road and track to deliver the best-ever performance that will leave them driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them. Let's investigate more on the all-new RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback.

2020 Audi RS6 Avant

2020 Audi RS7 Sportback

The all-new RS6 Avant, priced at 124260 Euros plus on-road costs, and the all-new RS7 Sportback, priced at 127,720 Euros plus on-road costs, are the best Audis aimed squarely at the opposition with its dynamics and performance that will push them beyond their limits.

Both of them are powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with a 48-volt electrical system and cylinder-on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. This engine produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. Stats like these will make them as fast as those from the AMG stable, especially their prime targets such as the E63S and the GT63S.

Unlike their AMG rivals, both the RS6 and RS7 don't have special witchcraft that makes them behave like rear-wheel drive monsters instead, both come with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control, allowing them to misbehave like the drivers want while keeping them enjoyable to drive on the road and track, even on gravel and snow thanks to its Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. 

Yes, they're not as mad as the AMGs but they're way beyond Subaru WRX STi levels of enjoyment and these best Audis are sure to give drivers a fresh new take on dynamic driving for all seasons. 

Such enjoyment will leave the others driven to tears, wishing they just want either one of them, and boy, they just did. And apart from being as mad as they look, their interior smells manly enough to get accommodated with. It even has good space in the back as well just like the normal ones.

The new RS6 and RS7 may not be as good as the AMG rivals because of the fact that they don't have rear-wheel drive witchcraft on their all-wheel drive systems but with numerous improvements tinkered inside out, these best Audis are simply the best Audis you really wish to want one. If you want one, so be it.

Photo: Audi AG

Audi S6 C8 and S7 C8

Audi's S6 range and the S7 Sportback are back for their latest generation but they're not what you think because what's underneath them is a different story that's going to be worth an argument heard round the world because for the first time, all of them are powered by a 3.0 TDi diesel engine, which is going to be irrelevant in today's Europe. but in such interest, let's investigate the whys of the S6 range and the S7 Sportback.

2020 Audi S6

2020 Audi S6 Avant

2020 Audi S7 Sportback

Back on their C8 outing, the new S6 range and S7 Sportback ups the ante with its sporty exterior styling, sporty handling, sporty interior, and same tech from its normal A6/A7 derivatives, but the most questionable of all is the engine that powers it. Yep, the new S6/S7 is powered by a new 3.0L V6 TDi engine, a semi-high performance diesel engine that is deemed irrelevant in today's diesel-sceptic Europe, but for such curiosity, let's get to know the diesel engine that powers it.

The 3.0L V6 TDi diesel engine that powers it comes from the A6 allroad and it is fitted with a 48-volt primary electrical system capable of producing 350PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it is capable of going 0-100kph in five seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. Now that is something else for these diesel-powered sport saloons despite being carried from a pseudo-crossover wagon relative of the A6 C8 family tree.

With the diesel engine sorted, let's investigate more on the basic stuff of the S6/S7 range. On the exterior design, the sporty exterior really is like a businessman in a track suit jogging at the park on a Sunday morning, although the rear is somewhat questionable due to its fake exhaust tips, but either way, the new S6/S7 really means business in a nearly athletic way and the dark-themed interior really smells like aftershave everytime you get in and out of the familiar cabin that comes with all of the familiar toys and comforts from the standard A6/A7.

At the dynamics section, the S6/S7 possess sportscar-like handling like every S model in the Audi catalog and although it feels rather mild but menacing, the dynamic all-wheel steering and optional ceramic brake system adds some dramatic feel to these models, making them solid all-rounder that balances the right things and the wrong things in a timely manner. Although not quite as impressive as its M Performance variants from BMW or the AMG 35 range from Mercedes but the new S6/S7 feels nearly addictive to drive.

The S6 range starts at 76,500 Euros plus tax and delivery while the S7 starts at 82,750 Euros plus tax and delivery. Yes, they really are expensive but feel free to get to know them if you got the time.

Photo: Audi AG

Audi A6 C8 allroad

The Audi A6 allroad is now based on the same underpinnings as the latest C8 A6 range and this new generation offers the same stuff that you get from today's Audi A6, now in an increased ground clearance and some extra cladding to make it look rugged and outgoing like a cameraman going out on the woods for some wildlife photography.

2020 Audi A6 allroad

It's been two decades since the original Audi allroad quattro went on sale and with the advent of the latest generation, the Audi A6 allroad continues to blend the right balance between the ruggedness of an SUV and the riding comfort of a luxury car, or be it an Audi A6 Avant perhaps, making this sport utility wagon one step ahead of the rest, although this new model wants to play hide and seek against the Mercedes E-Class All Terrain, which is its main rival.

With prices start at 61,500 Euros plus taxes and delivery, the new A6 allroad is surprisingly more expensive than the Mercedes E-AT and because it's an Audi, most speedo boys would be better off with the Mercedes instead because Audis are like the antithesis in the German luxury car wars. They're like sober people who went out from their rehabs and behave with all of the good manners and right conduct intended.

2020 Audi A6 allroad interior

Speaking of good manners and right conduct, the new A6 allroad is surprisingly an Audi A6 Avant with some increased ground clearance and some extra cladding to make it look rugged and dependable and because it's based on the A6 Avant, you can expect boot space fit enough for your mountain bike and some camping essentials on the trip to one of Europe's most scenic landscapes for your healing vlog purposes.

Under the hood, this sport utility wagon never learned a bit because the new A6 allroad is powered by a 3.0L TDi engine paired with a mild hybrid system, with the highest bearing 350PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it is capable of going 0-100kph in 5.2 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph. I know that most Europeans are not welcomed but considering how much power and torque the top-end A6 allroad possess, that's something you would really want to play tug of war against the E-Class All Terrain and because it can tow up of 2.5 tons, it's capable of towing caravans, which is going to be a menace for speedo boys everywhere. Who cares? You're in an Audi, of course, and the A6 allroad is the perfect caravane people's car to cause so much misery for the speedo boys, unless if they are fighting like tigers in a battle.

On the road, the A6 allroad works like an Audi A6 Avant, especially when it comes with a wide array of driving assists, but when taken off the road, it really is like a bear in a battle when the adaptive air suspension is raised to make it more enjoyable on the dirt, although not intended to be taken out for cross-country purposes like every crossover drivers heard of today. Because it comes with the Audi drive select offroad mode, the new A6 allroad really works like an elephant in the room and this is going to be one of the most enjoyable allroad you can try if you can afford the massive pricetag.

From tarmac, gravel, and snow, the all-new Audi A6 allroad is now worthy enough to follow the footsteps of the original allroad quattro 20 years ago and whether you love it or hate it, this sport utility vehicle is the ideal antidote for those who are raging against crossovers but don't worry because this is just a station wagon disguised as a crossover and you should thank Audi for that, whatever it takes.

Photo: Audi AG

Audi A6 C8

The Audi A6 has been rivaling the BMW 5-Series and the Mercedes E-Class for several years now and with the arrival of the new C8-spec incarnation, the newly regenerated Audi A6 wants to be leading the executive luxury car class with its newly revised tech and performance that will show the world just how serious this new model is, although it's not going to be as enjoyable as its rivals as some would point out.

2019 Audi A6

2019 Audi A6 Avant

While car companies like BMW have forgone the usual "Russian doll" effect, which makes customers confused about which is which, the new Audi A6 doesn't go for that approach and while it looks vaguely similar to the old C7 model, it can be easily distinguished from its brothers such as the smaller A4 and the supreme A8, fitting for the middle child of the family tree. Not a bad looker as such but what's beneath the coat and tie approach is somewhat hard to explain.

2019 Audi A6 interior

2019 Audi A6 Avant interior

Like we saw on the new A8 and the A7, the new interior is now donning to the new Audi interior like the ones mentioned a few seconds ago, meaning there's going to be some confusion about which interior does this car come from. Anyway, confusing the interior it can be, what's offered on the driver's side show that who says you can't sit on both boards and who says an office should have four walls. With MMI navigation plus and Audi connect, connectivity really means business and with all the internet connectivity provided, it's like you have work today even if you're stuck at traffic. Apart from that, the seats aren't as bad as you might think and rear space is fit enough for VIP escorts. On the Avant version, not only it's surprisingly bigger than the old model but it retains the same boot space as the old model, giving you plenty of space to store some for your day-offs and another rounds.

2019 Audi A6

2019 Audi A6 Avant

Like the new A8 and the A7, the new A6 range is now offered with a mild-hybrid system with a 48-volt primary electrical system and a belt alternator starter generating up to 12 kilowatts of recuperation power, standard on all variants. At launch, the sedan is offered a choice of two 3.0L engines, in petrol and diesel guise while the Avant is offered only with a 3.0L diesel, which is therefore out of context in today's Germany due to Europe's hatred affair with diesel engines. Most variants are fitted with a seven-speed S tronic or an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox.

Because it runs on an entirely different platform compared to the previous model, the new A6 sees some slight improvement to the handling department and when coupled with an optional limited slip differential and dynamic all-wheel steering as well with any of the four suspension setups as long if air suspension is chosen, it handles and behaves like what an Audi should be, getting round corners in a dramatic matter while staying true to its comfort zone but on the downside, it can snap your arms real good and that will drive you a bit mad if you are trying to push it over the limit.

Putting safety as its top priority, the new A6 offers a wide range of driving assists inspired from the A8, divided into the "City" and "Tour" packages. Whichever driving aids you ticked from its checklist, you can rest assure that while some can be worth surprising, there are others that will also drive you mad. Hey, that's the Audi way, you know. You won't win many friends by driving one rather than those who got a BMW or a Mercedes.

The sedan starts at 55,050 Euros (3.44 million pesos) while the Avant starts at 57,550 Euros (around 3.592 million pesos), which is annoyingly more costly to own compared to the BMW 5-Series and there you have it. While the new A6 is more expensive and less exciting compared to its compatriots from Germany, its tech, comfort, and efficiency won't go unnoticed and there's so much more to expect with the new model over the coming years, although there's nothing to excited about seeing a new Audi by yourself.

Photo: AUDI AG

Forza Horizon 2: Der Neuer RS6 Avant

With the brand-new Audi RS6 Avant arriving on Forza Horizon 2 via the NAPA Chassis Pack, I was very eager to try out one of Europe's super wagons for a spin. Besides, this turbocharged station wagon is what we're longing for to drive in the world of Forza. Although it wasn't made to be sold Stateside like all high-performance wagons do, the RS6 Avant made us super jealous when we drove one out on FH2.



So, what's it all about the new RS6? Well, at first, this is based on the current-generation Audi A6, or to be more specific, the A6 Avant model because the RS models of the Avants tend to combine sportscar-like performance with the convenience of a wagon. Since wagons are almost a thing of a past Stateside, we can't have 'em but go to Europe to have one thanks to some demands from the T10 staff, we are finally able to drive this high-performance wagon we've been denied for so long. Even me.



Mercifully, they've gone for the 2015 facelift of the RS6 Avant because they don't want to commit the same mistakes they've done when they feature a pre-facelift model and then what they didn't know that a facelifted model existed just before they can feature it in-game.

Under the hood, the RS6 comes with the 4.0L V8 TFSi engine which develops 560PS of power and 700Nm of torque and it's connected to an 8-speed tiptronic transmission. 0-100kph takes about 3.9 seconds and it will go on up to 305kph. Now that is one helluva super wagon no one can resist its speedy temptation.

Although this car is made for the trip to the grocery, the RS6 Avant is an all-rounder thanks to its legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. This means that if you're going to take on any road condition, be it wet or dry, the RS6 Avant always keeps your cool as long as you're brave enough to take on too many risks around you.



This is much more of a better speed wagon than the Audi RS4 Avant, which is a pre-order bonus for those who bought FH2 on XBOX One, or better yet, it's better than any other super saloons in its class, although being a 4WD super tourer, too much grip is what I'm experiencing and it feels a bit...mild. It may be a mild car to drive but even the rookies are more than welcome to master the new RS6. It doesn't really matter what kind of skill level you're on, be it a pro or a rookie. This wagon fits on any skill level the driver's on and this car is balanced with the things that are right and the things that are wrong.



I decided to take on a road trip to Montellino with the new RS6. Since this car comes with 4WD, this tourer can be an excellent road trip vehicle as long as you can't wait to go. You can take on whatever you like as long as you made it to the target destination and proceed to your next challenge.



As the saying goes, the journey continues...

See you next time.

Audi RS6 Avant (C7)

2014 Audi RS6 Avant

Quite a rare opportunity to have one of these, the all-new RS6 Avant from Audi is what happens when you take a posh station wagon for European moms whose husbands spend most of their nights getting pints of lager and then transform it into a swagger wagon where moms had changed and then turn their swagger on to beat up their husbands and their friends.

Think of it like...um...this wagon's fueled with so many Braniacs on it. So many Braniacs in it, you are gonna regret that you're going to abuse this wagon more and more until it screams "uncle" in German. The question is, how "Braniac" can this new RS6 Avant be? First of all, it started in life as an ordinary A6 Avant and then what just happened is when you let someone named "Mabel" goof off with the wagon until it turned into a monster wagon that is the total equivalent of the most hateful comic book hero named Deadpool. Seriously, how come they're some morons became fans of Deadpool? I wonder...

But it's not all about having a Deadpool-style personality that matched the RS6's exterior but the interior feels like it's been smothered in leather jumpsuits.

2014 Audi RS6 Avant interior

I mean look at the interior. It's about as dark as a monolith while the panels are made to look like carbon fiber. Now that's uncanny and that's not the end of it because RS sport seats with pronounced side bolsters and integrated head restraints really add character to the RS6's interior. Honestly, being a hardcore station wagon made for very aggressive moms is just plain stupid. I mean, imagine when you're fetching your kids at school and when you heard that when your kid just got detention, not only you got mad because of this, and then you're going to slap him at home, but the punishment for this makes him scare by pulling some deadly stunts until your kid gets too intense and crying loudly. Wow, that's even more punishing than spanking him with a leather belt or for worse, cutting off the head of his favorite teddy bear.

No wait....rather than using either a scissor or a knife to cut off the head of his beloved teddy bear that he often cuddled during bedtime, perhaps the only way to cut off Mr. Teddy Bear's head rather than the knife or scissors is raw performance of the RS6 because of the monster that lives under the bonnet.

It has the same 4.0L TFSi engine that you'll get on the Audi S8 so it produces about a meat cleaver-ish 560 hp of power and if you are using the English metric system...the torque output is 700 Nm, that's more torque than the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series and if you strapped his favorite teddy bear onto the tires, be prepared because the torque's too much to shred the poor teddy bear into bits. So, the kid's finally learned his lesson? Not quite yet because there's more to that than ruining his teddy bear using the torque from the RS6's V8 twin-turbo engine. What else can Angry Mom rip off? There's only one answer...another one of his son's plushies! He he he...

Anyway, enough about that because this is getting too sensible and too intense. It's going to feel like you've been spending all night reading too many Deadpool volumes but if all goes too wrong...the only way for a little bit of "RAGE QUIT" is to drive the RS6 Avant because "RAGE QUIT" is what it does best because, with so many torques on such a 5-door wagon body, this is not the nicest wagon for you to drive if you are very polite. This RS6 Avant wants more Edgar Allan Poe-ish and more Hannibal Lecter-ish and with the expensive pricing of 107,900 euros, rated SPG as well. SPG as in...STRONG PARENTAL GUIDANCE.

You got to love the new RS6 Avant because, with so much torque, the biggest punishment you'll ever give next time when your son gets a strike three is...well, you know what to do...

Okay... You know what, this is getting a bit too much Deadpool on this review. I think I should call this one a wrap.

Available colors: Ibisweiß, Suzukagrau Metallic, Daytonagrau Perleffekt, Misanorot Perleffekt, Phantomschwarz Perleffekt, Estorilblau Kristalleffekt, Pantherschwarz Kristalleffekt, and Prismasilber Kristalleffekt.

Photo: AUDI AG

Audi S6 (C7)

The S6, a potent hardcore version of the A6, is proven to be a decent choice for those who are bad businessmen. With the latest C7 incarnation, this new S6 is all about being a much tamed alternative to the BMW M5 and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. However, just like those two, the S6 went to a major downsizing. For starters, the 5.2-liter V10 engine from the previous model has now been thrown away and replaced by a 4.0 TFSI engine.

2013 Audi S6

2013 Audi S6 Avant

With downsizing comes with a price because with the 4.0 TFSi engine equipped on the new S6, you could expect a 15PS drop in the power department but this shouldn't be a worry because this 4.0L V8 engine comes with turbochargers so the result is 4,8 s (Limousine) / 4,9 s (Avant), faster than the previous model's 5,2 s (Limousine) / 5,3 s (Avant) time. What's more, the worthless 6-speed ZF 6HP26 tiptronic automatic transmission from the old S6 are gone and replaced by a much potent 7-speed dual clutch S tronic transmission for quicker shifting that led them to an unmeasured gap between them.

Also, the fuel consumption gets even better, 9,7–9,8L/100km Combined to be exact, much efficient than the old S6's 12,6–13,4L/100km, thanks to its stop start technology that stops the engine when stopped and then start again when the foot is on the pedal, to save petrol. There's also this new "cylinder on demand" cylinder management system that allows the V8 to run on fours or sixes, just like the present day Dodge Charger SRT8 or Chrysler 300 SRT8. However, here's a thing, When the V8 deactivates four cylinders under part load, the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) is activated.

Both the S6 and the S6 Avant won't be completed without Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel drive system uses the self-locking center differential and torque vectoring. For something else, this system incorporates the available sport differential, which actively distributes the power between the rear wheels.

Available colors are; Eissilber Metallic, Gletscherweiß Metallic, Havannaschwarz Metallic, Mondscheinblau Metallic, Oolonggrau Metallic, Quarzgrau Metallic, Estorilblau Kristalleffekt, and Phantomschwarz Perleffekt. If you want exclusivity and bespoke, there's always the Audi exclusive customization program that caters your special needs such as special paint finishes, special interior, various accessories and gadgets, and much more.

My comment;

The new S5 may have been has heavier than the old one but with a turbocharged V8 that is more quicker than the old one's V10 engine, new double clutch transmission, and everything else, I can say that this model is getting a bit interesting for me but sadly, this new model wasn't compete with the likes of the BMW M5 or the MB E63 AMG even though those three have turbocharged V8 engines and double clutch transmissions.

Photo: AUDI A.G.

Audi A6 allroad quattro (C7)

Using the Audi A6 (C7) Avant as its foundation for the flagship sport utility wagon, the new 2013 Audi A6 allroad quattro is more of an all-rounder for the men in suits who love adventures across Europe because when the asphalt ends, it just keeps on driving. Indeed this was made to be all work, all play, all show, and all go, well sort of.

2013 Audi A6 allroad quattro

On the outside, it looks more like the A6 Avant but with some credentials that what makes this crossover, a crossover. The wheel well edges, the bumpers and the sills are painted in a contrasting color. Audi also offers a full paint finish in combination with the optional aluminum exterior package. To differentiate from the original A6 to the A6 allroad quattro was the grille because the linings are more vertical than what you've expect, just like the previous A6 allroad.

2013 Audi A6 allroad quattro interior

2013 Audi A6 allroad quattro interior

On the A6 allroad's interior, you would expect the carpeting and the instrument panel, which are black throughout. You would also expect the interior color Santos Brown, available optional aluminum inlays, aluminum door sill trims and are emblazoned with "allroad." You would still expect some wondrous conveniences such as the MMI Navigation plus with touchpad operation, voice control, Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 15 speakers, and the available Wi-Fi Hotspot that takes full advantage of mobile devices that connects to the internet like the iPhone, great if you want your iPhone go foursquare-ing while riding inside the new A6 allroad.

2013 Audi A6 allroad quattro

One TFSI gasoline engine and three TDI diesel engines are the kind of engines offered on the new A6 allroad quattro. First off, the 3.0 TFSI engine produces 228 kW (310 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque. It can go 0-100kph in 5.9 seconds and top speed, like most others, 250kph. Those three diesel types? Let's narrow it down, shall we? The three variants of the 3.0 TDI engine generates 150 kW (204 hp), 180 kW (245 hp) and 230 kW (313 hp); torque values are 450, 580 and 650 Nm (331.90, 427.79 and 479.42 lb-ft). The entry-level variant consumes on average just 6.1 liters of fuel per 100 km (38.56 US mpg), corresponding to 159 g CO2/km (255.89 g/mile). The powerful version of the 3.0 TDi comes with the seven-speed double clutch S tronic for quicker shifting if the driver initiates manual mode. The Audi A6 allroad will never be this without the quattro permanent four-wheel drive system with torque vectoring.

In the new Audi A6 allroad quattro, the driver can take advantage of the Audi drive select system where the settings will alter the steering, the air suspension, the gas pedal, the automatic transmission, the sport differential, the automatic air conditioning, the lighting and the adaptive cruise control. The adaptive air suspension lowers the body by 15 millimeters (0.59 in) at high speed and raises it by 35 millimeters (1.38 in) at the push of a button.

Available colors are Brillantschwarz, Ibisweiß, Eissilber Metallic, Gletscherweiß Metallic, Dakotagrau Metallic, Havannaschwarz Metallic, Javabraun Metallic, Mondscheinblau Metallic, Oolonggrau Metallic, Phantomschwarz Perleffekt, Granatrot Perleffekt, and Tiefgrün Perleffekt.

My Comment:
So, the all new Audi A6 allroad quattro, I didn't expect to see this one coming despite it was more like the latest version of the Audi A6 Avant but it made it a bit more SUV-ish rather than being a tourer. It maybe one of Audi's finest achievement but sadly, it doesn't work when you smuggle this to Manila. This new Audi A6 allroad will work only in Europe (but not in Britain). Honest!

Photo: Audi A.G.

Audi A6 Avant Fourth Generation

2012 Audi A6 Avant

Following the footsteps of the fourth-generation Audi A6 C7 sedan, the Audi A6 Avant C7 provides the same level of the new A6 sedan with the added luggage space that what you should expect for a premium sport tourer in Europe. The 4th generation Audi A6 Avant targets the likelihood of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate S212 and the BMW 5-Series Touring F11 as the main rivals but the road ahead is not going to be easy for the new Audi A6 Avant C7.

In the exterior design, the new A6 Avant carries the look from its sedan counterpart but as a wagon, the styling of a German station wagon looks a little bit redundant. It needs a bit more stylish and reasonably mannered like the Honda Accord Tourer (Acura TSX Sport Wagon) but the side view seems to be grateful in the eyes of the businessmen. The biggest mistake of all is the rear view of the new A6 Avant because borrowing the rear lamps from the sedan version looks more overactive and overrated if you know what I mean.

As a sports tourer, the new Audi A6 Avant has a progressed luggage compartment with the capacity of 565 liters (19.95 cu ft). The rear seats can be folded down to make room with lots of items you have in mind, like for instance, a shipment of firearms, a giant statue to fit inside your mansion, several groceries, and other stuff you can fit in. It may be a family wagon, but the Audi A6 Avant focuses more on its premium status. What completes this is the Multimedia Interface (MMI) navigation plus with MMI touch that cooperates with a variety of driving aids and a Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System that brings high-definition audio from 15 speakers, which is great to listen to your favorite songs in high quality.

What's the next BIG THING for Audi is the internet connectivity. The available Wi-Fi Hotspot takes full advantage of mobile devices that connects to the internet like the iPhone, great if you want your iPhone go foursquare-ing while riding inside the new A6 Avant. Also, you can Google search points of interest - particularly conveniently via voice control. Those big advantages really made it progressed and the Audi A6 Avant has been progressed to make lots of friends and enemies in the luxury car industry.

Available engines for the Audi A6 Avant were the same as the sedan version such as 2.0 TFSI, 2.8 FSI, 3.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI DPF 3.0 TDI DPF 204 PS and 3.0 TDI DPF 245 PS. A high performance 3.0 TDI DPF engine with 313 PS will be offered later. Depending on the engine choices, the transmissions offered on the new Audi A6 Avant are multitronic (CVT), 6-speed manual, and 7-speed S tronic. The 8-speed tiptronic will be offered later as well. Most versions come with the Audi drive select driving dynamics system that adjusts the key drivetrain, chassis, and driving aides within four modes such as comfort, auto, dynamic, and individual. For a lightweight feeling, a new "aluminum hybrid body" is placed on the new Audi A6 Avant, the first of its kind since the sedan, to make it more rigid, safer, and lighter than other premium wagons and depending on the engine types, the new Audi A6 Avant weighs 1,715 to 1,865 kilograms.

Safety is a top priority for luxury sport tourers and the new Audi A6 Avant has been progressed to be more safer unlike any other. Thanks to the MMI navigation plus, it makes full use of its safety features such as adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and something similar to Toyota's NAVI-AI-SHIFT technology. FF models of the new A6 Avant will receive Electronic Stability Program with electronic LSD (Limited-slip Differential) to make handling more convenient.

The color variation on the new Audi A6 Avant includes Brillantschwarz, Ibisweiß, Aviatorblau Metallic, Dakotagrau Metallic, Eissilber Metallic, Havannaschwarz Metallic, Mondscheinblau Metallic, Oolonggrau Metallic, Quarzgrau Metallic, Daytonagrau Perleffekt, Granatrot Perleffekt, and Phantomschwarz Perleffekt.

My comment:
The new Audi A6 Avant is now ready to take on the big leagues of the premium wagon category because of its advanced features and the aluminum hybrid body armed and ready to show who's the best among the rest. The introductory price of the new Audi A6 Avant is 40,850 Euros, making the cheapest premium wagon of its class, toppling against the BMW 5-Series Touring and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate. What about on the performance side? As surely known, the new A6 Avant can be the biggest loser on its class because only the V8-powered BMW 5-Series Touring and MB E-Class Estate can achieve that.

It's up to the driver to decide the outcome of the new Audi A6 Avant

Photo: AUDI AG

E-Class (W212) vs. 5-Series (F10) vs. A6 (C7 Typ 4G)

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2011 BMW 5-Series

2012 Audi A6

This was one heck of a "March Madness" for sure. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 arrived since March 2009, the BMW 5-Series F10 arrived since March 2010, and the all new Audi A6 (C7 Typ 4G) arrived since March 2011. This was one heck of chronology that those three executive premium mid-size sedans were launched consecutively. CATS Motors already has the W212, Asian Carmakers Corporation already has the F10, and we're still waiting for PGA Cars to bring the all new Audi A6 soon. Either way, those three exceed expectations among German luxury car connoisseurs and their exceptional technology became a leading edge to surpass its predecessors.

In terms of design: I will give the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212) 1st place while 2nd place goes for the BMW F10 and 3rd place goes to the all new Audi A6. What can I say?

In terms of performance: BMW 5-Series F10 is my pick while 2nd place goes for the MB E-Class W212 and 3rd goes for the all new Audi A6 (C7 Typ 4G). Why? Let's observe the top of the line models. The BMW 550i can achieve 5 seconds in a 0-100km/h run while the MB E500 reaches 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds and the Audi A6 3.0 TFSI can accumulate 5.5 seconds in the 0-100km/h run.

In terms of pricing: The all new Audi A6 takes the lead while 2nd place goes for the MB E-Class (W212) and 3rd place goes to the BMW 5-Series (F10). Why? Let's take introductory pricing. The Audi A6 2.0 TDI costs 38,500 Euros while the Mercedes-Benz E 200 CDI BlueEfficiency costs 39,835 Euros and the BMW 520d costs 40,350.

It's up to you to decide....

Audi A6 Fourth Generation

The Audi A6 is progressed. With its new design, new interior, new features, this premium midsize sedan is ready to progress against the likelihood of the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, or even the Buick LaCrosse (known in South Korea as the GM Korea Alpheon).

2012 Audi A6

The A6's exterior design has progressed and heavily inspired from the styling cues from the eccentric Audi A7 Sportback. Although it was inspired from an eccentric Audi fastback, the sedan look of the new A6 doesn't seem to be eccentric, even with the same side view from the previous 3rd generation model and the rear view heavily inspired from the latest-generation Audi A8. The progressed design really brings out the "Vorsprung durch technik" catchphrase and the executives will be salivated over the A6's brand new look.

2012 Audi A6 interior

Also progressing on the new A6 is the interior as well. Even though the new interior looks similar to the Audi A7 Sportback, it still has some of the technological features offered to bring out the future to the drivers, like the available MMI navigation plus system that features real-time navigation when they need it.

There are various driver assistance systems offered on the new A6. First of all, there were three cameras attached; the front, the back, and infrared that is useful for night driving. Next was the sensors attached at the front, side, and back, then there was also two special sensors; the crash sensors and this one sensor some of them don't understand what it is; the SARA sensor which automatically activates the ESP and Audi pre-sense basic. These cameras and sensors are highly essential for parking, cruise control, and crash response, making it more safer to drive than other European premium medium-sized sedans. This is how safety is progressed.

By the time the new A6 sedan arrives this March 2011, the available 2.8L FSI, 3.0 TFSi, and 3.0 TDi engine are available as of press time and there will be a "hybrid" version available very soon. The 2.8L FSi engine is the most fuel efficient of the line-up because not only it comes with the CVT, but the fuel consumption of 7.4 Liter/100 km as well. The most powerful variant of the new A6 for now is the 3.0L TFSi engine because of the high-revving power output of 300PS and it reaches 5.5 seconds on the 0-100km run. It consumes 8.2 Liter / 100km of fuel, making more frugal to go further.

My thoughts about the A6:

I guess luxury has progressed for the new Audi A6 just how the latest Audi A8 and the Audi A7 Sportback progressed its luxury status thanks to its "Art of Progress" this premiere German luxury car maker wants to achieve and become the Alpha of the luxury car brands. The sedan version is the only new A6 available and sales start this March following with the Avant variant this Autumn 2011. An allroad variant is unlikely to happen but I believe that Audi may not bring the allroad variant of the new A6 due to the previous generation's low reception. This looks more choppy to expect for me.

Still, the progressed design doesn't look more choppy to me, because it has the styling cues the predecessors failed to achieve. I'm glad the progressed design made it into something special. The new Audi A6 makes a perfect fistfight against the BMW 5-Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Buick LaCrosse, or GM Korea Alpheon.

Photo: Audi AG