Audi has released details of the new-look A6 Avant. The Avant features Audi's bold new face grafted onto a sporty body. There is a raft of new technological advances as well as the ubiquitous Quattro four-wheel drive system.

Powered by a range of five engines at launch, from the 2.4-litre V6 to the 4.2-litre V8 and including two powerful TDi units, the A6 is aimed squarely at the 5-series Touring and E-class Estate. Driving through a six-speed manual, CVT or six-speed auto' through the front or all four wheels, the new engines are packed with Audi's expertise in common rail diesel and FSI direct injection petrol fuel systems, promising class-leading refinement and performance. The whole package has been designed to answer the continual criticism of Audi's driver enjoyment and dynamics.

This is in addition to the now familiar class-leading interior design architecture found on almost every Audi. The A6 Avant features the MMI (Multi Media Interface), Audi's answer to BMW's I-drive - we'll let you know how good it is when we drive it in 2005. Other advances include the adaptive lighting system (the lenses swivel in response to steering input), adaptive cruise control, tyre pressure monitors, dual-zone climate control and air suspension. Overall the Avant looks set to be a class act, and tough competition for the 5-series, E-class and Volvo V70.

Dave Jenkins - 10 Nov 2004