Audi A6

 A mid-life facelift for the current generation A6, the new Audi A6 Matrix 35 TDI comes  with a host of updates and a rather interesting addition to its name- ‘Matrix’. Yes, thissuffix does remind you of a 1999 sci-fi flick that took the Box Office by a storm. 

What All’s New with the Design & Styling?

Akin to how some major features from the S-Class have trickled down to the new-gen E, this A6 seems to have borrowed in considerable measures from the A8. Of course, among the biggest talking points here are those hi-tech headlamps. The highlight of these headlamps is their capability to turn a set of LED bulbs off just so they don’t cause discomfort to the road users travelling in the opposite direction..

The front fascia also boasts of a sportier bumper and a wider radiator grille. Together the two new re-styled bits infuse a touch of richness with the car’s front end. The refreshed A6 also comes with stylish new V-shaped alloy rims, sleeker tail-lamps, and rectangular exhaust pipes. 

• 14-speaker 600W  Bose Music System
• Updated MMI that gets a new NVidia graphics card
• 4-zone automatic climate control

The design of the interior stays almost true to that of the earlier model. However, it does get some very likable revisions in the form of matte textured wood trim and a re-styled gear knob. .
What’s Under the Hood?

Powering the Audi A6 Matrix 35 TDI is a new 1,968cc Turbo Diesel engine that has the same displacement as the earlier motor. The latest iteration of the A6, however, benefits from a higher max. power of 190 PS (from earlier 176 PS) and a higher peak torque of 41kgm (vs 38.7kgm). 

 The engine, in a manner that’s typical of new age TDI motors from VW Group, offers a rather linear torque curve, with the turbo kicking in from little above 1,500 RPM. The A6 feels capable of attaining 100 KMPH from standstill in roughly 8 seconds and it’s potent enough to cruise at roughly 150 KMPH all day long! Those of 

 Now, these S-Tronic transmissions from Audi are among the most sorted out units available today, and quite obviously, the CVT’s annoying ‘rubberband effect’ is conspicuous by its absence on the new car. What’s somewhat of a let down, however, is the new Dual Clutch Transmission’s hesitance to down-shift during kickdowns.

Around the Corner?

Our favorite bit on the refreshed A6 is its adaptive air suspension. Now this is one feature that makes the A6 stand out amongst its rivals. Audi cars are known to offer a cossetting ride without upsetting the handling characteristics by a considerable margin. And the latest A6 marches a step forward by offering a ride quality that is absolutely laudable. 

On the flip side, however, is the ultra-light steering wheel. While the feather-light steering enables you to easily make way through congested, traffic-infested streets, it simply refuses to weigh up enough with speed.
Should I Buy One?

With features like the brilliant Matrix headlamps and the air suspension, the A6 is currently the most technologically advanced car in its segment.