Potent diesel for Audi A6 and A7

Audi is introducing its most potent V6 diesel yet to the Audi A6 and A7 range. The three-litre twin-turbo unit, mated to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission, produces 309bhp at 3900-4500rpm and 479lb ft of torque between 1450 and 2800rpm.

It helps the A6 saloon to clock 0-62mph in 5.1secs. That makes it faster than the equivalent 3.0-litre BMW 535d, which has a claimed 0-62mph time of 5.5secs.

Like Audi’s existing TDI engines, the new V6 will feature start-stop and achieves a claimed combined economy figure of 44.1mpg across all A6 and A7 models. The biturbo TDI also features a sound actuator that makes the diesel exhaust note to a noise closer to that of a high-performance petrol engine.

All biturbo models will include satellite navigation with a 6.5-inch screen, Milano leather upholstery, Audi’s drive select adaptive dynamics system, light and rain sensors and keyless go. Audi’s optional rear sports differential, for sharper handling, is also available.

The new BiTDI engine is available in conjunction with SE and S line specification in the A6 Saloon, A6 Avant and A7 Sportback. The A6 allroad Quattro, which goes on sale this month, will get the powerplant later in the year.

Prices start at £43,810 for the A6 saloon SE and rise to £53,435 for the A7 Sportback S line. First deliveries are expected in the spring.

New engines for A5

Audi is also introducing two new efficient diesel engines to the A5 model range – a 2.0-litre TDIe, available with 134bhp or 160bhp. Both engines will be available in the Coupe and Sportback, with the 160bhp unit offering a claimed 64.2mpg on the combined cycle.

In the Coupe, the most potent oil burner pushes the TDIe from rest to 62mph in 8.4secs with CO2 emissions of 115g/km, making it the lowest CO2 emitting A5 coupe in the range. The 134bhp Sportback accelerates from rest to 62mph in 9.5secs and produces 117g/km. Both come mated to a six-speed manual.

Audi has also announced the addition of a new SE Technik specification for all four-cylinder TDIs – a trim level first seen on the A4. At a premium of £1000 on top of the SE model price for the Sportback or £500 on top of the SE price for the Coupe, it adds upgraded satnav and stereo system, iPod connection, parking assist with front and rear sensors and cruise control to the SE equipment list.

In addition to the new diesel units, the Sportback continues to be available in 141bhp and 174bhp versions of the 2.0-litre engine, and the 3.0-litre V6 TDI. The A5 Coupe is available with the 174bhp 2.0-litre TDI and two V6 diesels.

Anil Kanda