Two powertrains will be offered. Entry-level cars will be badged Performance and get a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor that puts out 362bhp for a 0-62mph time of 5.4sec.
The S6 will add an asynchronous motor on the front axle, giving it four-wheel drive and a combined output of 496bhp in normal operation. Using the launch control function temporarily boosts it to 543bhp, cutting its 0-62mph time to 3.9sec.
Top speed is 130mph in the Performance model and 149mph in the S6. The RS6 will also be reborn as a pure EV. It will offer stronger performance than the existing 621bhp V8 model and be available in both saloon and estate forms for the first time in 14 years.
Dynamically, the new A6 is said to have been set up for “first-class” comfort, with the Performance model riding on traditional steel springs and the S6 getting adaptive air suspension.
Top-spec models actively adjust their ride height on the move to aid aerodynamic performance and range. They also lift when parked and unlocked to enable easier entry. Inside, the A6 mirrors the layout of the new A5 and the Q6, with a large OLED screen taking centre stage.
This is divided into an 11.9in instrument panel and a 14.5in infotainment touchscreen. A 10.9in passenger display is offered as an option. In cars equipped with the optional camera side ‘mirrors’, a pair of small displays bookends the dashboard.
Deliveries of the A6 E-tron will begin around the end of this year. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but the A6 is expected to be broadly competitive with its i5 and EQE rivals, which start at £67,695 and £69,105 respectively
