Gadget lovers can now specify the Technology Package Advanced for the Audi A6 and A7 Sportback that combines a variety of infotainment and safety features. For the six-cylinder automatic A6 models the cost is £3,250 and includes nine key options. The equivalent A7 bundle costs an extra £500 but adds a head-up display.
When ordered the package supports an internet connection and acts as a Wi-Fi hotspot. Up to eight mobile devices can connect provided there is a data capable SIM card or suitable mobile phone hooked up.
On board entertainment and navigation includes a DVD drive, two SD card readers and a 60GB hard drive containing navigation data. One third of the disk is reserved for phone and music data.
The navigation and entertainment system is known as MMI navigation plus and is controlled by the MMI Touch fingertip recognition system. A touch-sensitive panel responds to the shapes of letters and numbers drawn by the driver's finger. There is also voice recognition that understands street names, phone numbers and music tracks.
The A7 Sportback features a head-up display, showing navigation and entertainment information on the windscreen, apparently floating two metres in front of the car.
Safety systems include blind spot monitoring, active lane assist and adaptive cruise control ACC stop & go. If the on-board sensors detect an imminent collision Audi pre sense plus can tension the seatbelts, close the windows, illuminate the brake lights and apply the brakes.
Audi claims that the Technology Package Advanced offers a saving of £1,085 for A6 customers and £1,135 for the A7 Sportback when compared with the cost of the individual options.
John Lambert - 27 Jan 2012