by Launch on the American Market
Less than five months after its premiere in Europe, the updated generation Audi A6 was introduced for the US market. Deliveries to dealerships will begin in the fourth quarter. The new model is more technology-oriented, has more power, and, as expected, a higher price compared to its predecessor.
Updated Powertrain
Like the old model, the new 2026 Audi A6 is equipped with a 3.0-liter bi-turbo V6 engine. However, while the previous version produced 335 hp and 500 Nm of torque, the new model has figures of 362 hp and 550 Nm. The unit works in tandem with a seven-speed dual-clutch robotic gearbox and quattro all-wheel drive. The manufacturer states that the new A6 accelerates to 60 mph 0.6 seconds faster.
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Interestingly, the old model was also available with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 261 hp, but this version has been removed from the lineup. Now buyers are offered only one engine choice, but in three different trim levels.
Trims and Prices
The base version is the A6 Premium with a price starting from $64,100, not including the destination fee of $1,295. This is significantly higher than the starting price of the previous base A6 Premium model with the 2.0-liter engine, which was $58,100. The previous generation version with the V6 engine cost $62,600. Considering the additional power and features, the $1,500 price increase seems justified.
The mid-range in the lineup is the A6 Premium Plus trim with a price starting from $67,500, which is only $200 more expensive than the equivalent model from last year. The top-tier A6 Prestige version starts from $71,400, which is actually cheaper than the $73,350 for the 2025 model.
Platform and Options
The basis of the new Audi A6 family is the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture. The Prestige version has standard electronically controlled dampers. The flagship model can also be equipped with the Sport Plus package, which adds all-wheel steering, a sport differential on the rear axle, and a sport suspension.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the new A6, as in the European version, includes a curved display combining an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch MMI multimedia system display. The standard Prestige trim also includes a 10.9-inch MMI display for the front passenger. Other key features include a heads-up display, interior ambient lighting, and an optional Bang & Olufsen 3D premium audio system.
The transition to the new platform and the focus on one, but more powerful, powertrain indicates Audi’s strategy of increasing the quality and technological level of the model, even if it leads to a reduction in options for the buyer. The price increase, especially in the base trim, is compensated by significant technical updates, making the car more competitive in its segment among other German premium brands.
