What's the news?

Audi's new A6 and A7 Black Editions are designed to create a 'distinctly darker air' to the executive models on which they are based. The A6 Black Edition is available in both saloon and Avant guise; and both cars come with upgrades to the inside and outside in order to mark their exclusivity.

Exterior

Naturally, both cars receive the usual S Line bodywork upgrades; however the A7 also features an electrically operated rear spoiler. Each model receives black detailing on the front grille, number plate surround and window surround; with dark privacy glass installed at the back. The A6 Avant also gets black roof rails. All cars gain dark titanium rotor-design alloy wheels - 20-inches in diameter for the A6 and 21-inches for the A7.

Interior

The dashboards now sport Piano Black inlays, complementing the black leather seats and black headlining. A DAB radio connected to a BOSE sound system comes as standard. While both cars receive the S Line package inside the A7 gains a powered boot lid and electric front seats too.

Mechanicals

The ideal engine to be chosen for the Black Editions is the 3.0-litre BiTDI unit, according to Audi. This gives the cars 310hp and 650Nm of torque on tap. In reality though, the A6 Black Edition can be had with any engine from the 2.0-litre TDI upwards; and any powertrain in the A7. Audi has noted however, that the S6 and S7 are not available as Black Editions.

Anything else?

Prices for the A6 start at £35,010 for the saloon and £36,970 for the Avant. A7 Black Edition prices range from £50,575 to £56,785. Both cars are available now.