The Audi A6 is due for a mid-lifecycle update this year, and spy photographers caught a lightly camouflaged prototype of what appears to be the long-wheelbase version parked out in the open. The Chinese-spec facelifted sedan was previewed by a set of images surfaced online last month showing minor design changes.
Audi is known for giving a subtle makeover
to its models but this time they took it to another level. The facelifted A6 L
looks virtually unchanged in the untrained eye, despite the camouflage on both
ends. The sporty bumpers come from the S-Line, with unnoticeable changes over
the current generation that are likely limited to extra trim pieces. There is
also another prototype with the regular bodykit, hiding a slightly redesigned
lower part of the rear bumper. We guess that the headlights and taillights will
get updated LED graphics alongside new options for the wheels.
All of these will most likely be applied
to the regular A6 for Europe and North America, since the only difference with
the A6 L was the longer wheelbase evident from the longer rear doors. Audi will
reportedly retain the sedan and Avant bodystyles for the facelifted A6,
alongside the Allroad, S6, and RS6 variants. We don’t expect any major upgrades
in the cabin, since the A6 already had a 10.1-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch
digital instrument cluster, however, more ADAS features and new software could
be added.
Engine options will likely be carried over
from the current A6 (C8) generation that was originally introduced in August
2018, with small improvements for lower emissions. The plug-in hybrid variants
will play a more important role in the facelifted A6 range until the fully
electric A6 e-tron arrives as a completely different model rivaling the Mercedes-Benz
EQE and the upcoming BMW i5. The facelifted Audi A6 range will likely debut in
the coming months for Europe and North America, closely following the A6 L for
the Chinese market.
