Audi A6 Allroad returns with PHEV, diesel powertrains

Audi has taken the wraps off its new generation A6 allroad station wagon, which is effectively a more off-road-capable derivative of the A6 Avant estate. The carmaker has introduced a a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time with the allroad, and in comparison to the A6 Avant, it has a higher ground clearance and a wider body. Furthermore, it comes with adaptive air suspension and all-wheel drive as standard. In international markets, the A6 allroad competes with with the likes of the Skoda Superb Scout, Volvo V90 Cross Country and Mercedes E-Class All-Terrain.

Audi A6 allroad powertrains

For the first time, Audi is offering the A6 allroad with a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which comprises a 2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor. Combined output from this setup is rated at 367hp and 500Nm, and the 25.9kWh (20.7kWh net) battery pack allows for an electric-only range of up to 95km on the WLTP cycle. The 0-100kph sprint is done in 5.5 seconds, topping out at 250kph. The carmaker claims a time of 2.5 hours to fully charge the battery with an 11kW AC charger.

A 3-litre V6 diesel with mild hybrid assist is also on offer, producing 299hp and 580Nm. Compared to the PHEV, the allroad diesel does the 100kph run from rest in a slightly quicker 5.4 seconds, though the top speed is the same at 250kph.

Audi A6 allroad specifications

Audi has increased the A6 allroad's width for the first time compared to the Avant, by 111mm. Even the front and rear tracks are wider by 74mm and 70mm, respectively. The increase in ground clearance stands at 34mm. Since it comes with air suspension, as mentioned before, the ground clearance can be extended a further 15mm in allroad-specific off-road modes. To accommodate the higher ride height, the shock absorber settings are adjusted as well. For better stability at high speeds, the ground clearance can be lowered too.

Audi also says the allroad has improved agility because of a rear axle that can steer up to 5deg in the opposite direction to the front, reducing the turning circle by up to one metre. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the PHEV and available as an option for the diesel.