March 3, 2004. Copyright, 2004, Graphic News. All rights reserved

Audi A6 with aggressive new face unveiled in Geneva

By Neil Winton

LONDON, March 3, Graphic News:  AudiÕs new A6 mid-size luxury car is likely to be the star turn when it makes its world debut at the Geneva Auto Show this week.

In part, that may be down to the fact that there are comparatively few major debutants at this yearÕs show. At the last major European car exhibition, in Frankfurt, Germany, last September, the new Volkswagen Golf, EuropeÕs biggest seller, made its first appearance, as well as one of its most important rivals, the new Opel/Vauxhall Astra. BMW unveiled its X3 Sport Utility Vehicle and the 6 series coupe. The Mazda 3, Volvo S40 and McLaren Mercedes SLR supercar made their first bows.

The A6 has only one real mainstream contender for the spotlight at the Geneva show, the Peugeot 407. Other newcomers include the new Mini convertible, the BMW 5-series estate, and the restyled little Mercedes SLK two-seater sports car.

The crowds at the showÕs Audi stand will find that the lines of the new A6 share a remarkable resemblance to the outgoing model, until they look at the controversial new grille. Audi describes the bold new face for the A6 as Òa trapezoidal single-frame radiator grilleÓ. The design is much deeper, and decidedly more aggressive, than the old one, but retains the familiar four interlocking circles. It is also incorporated into the steering wheel design. This new Òface of AudiÓ will progressively appear on new cars across the range. Time will tell whether this will attract or repel buyers.

The familiar design of the A6Õs body contrasts with the radical looks of the BMW 5-series, its main competitor along with the sleek Mercedes E-class. Last year, the restyled BMW 5-series shocked some potential buyers with its angular, busy shape, which contrasted with its predecessorÕs classic, smooth body.

No such worries for the familiar looking A6, which is in fact slightly longer, higher and wider than the old car. The contents under the skin will also reassure. There are five engine choices at launch, with three petrol versions Ð 4.2 litre V8 335 bhp, 3.2 litre V6 255 bhp, and 2.4 V6 177 bhp Ð and two diesels Ð 3.0 litre V6 225 bhp, and 2.0 litre 4 cylinder 140 bhp. The 2.4 litre petrol and 2.0 litre diesel are likely to be the biggest sellers.

Standard safety features abound, including the latest computerised braking and traction control, and air bags which protect against accidents intruding from the front, side and rear. Some air bags deploy in stages depending on the severity of the collision. An electronic handbrake frees up space between the driver and front seat passenger. A six-speed manual gearbox is also standard, with the option of a six-speed, or continuously variable Multitronic automatic.

Extras include radar cruise control which changes the speed of the car depending on surrounding traffic. The A6 can be fitted with high tech headlights which see around corners. Audi says this means the driver can detect possible danger earlier than conventional lighting. Air suspension will be available in 2005.

A6 sales will start in Germany later this month, and will reach British forecourts by June 2004.  Prices start at about 37,400 euros, or £25,000. The Geneva show is open to the public from March 4-14.
/ENDS