New Car: 2009 Audi A6

As we predicted just a few short weeks ago, the 2009 Audi A6 will be powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 making 300 horsepower.

Among other changes for the 2009 model year, American A6s will get the 3.0 TFSI engine (T can now mean supercharged as well as turbocharged in Audi powertrain nomenclature). The U.S.-spec version of the engine makes 300 hp at 4800 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The engine will be coupled exclusively to a six-speed Tiptronic automatic with Quattro all-wheel-drive.

A clever combination of supercharging, variable valve timing, and direct injection should give the 3.0 TFSI a generous blend of performance and economy. Audi says the European-spec A6 sedan runs the 0–to-62 mph sprint in 5.9 seconds and is electronically limited to 155 mph, yet returns nearly 25 mpg on the Euro test cycle.

In the 2009 sedan, Audi will continue to offer the 3.2-liter V-6 and 4.2-liter V-8 engines from the 2008 A6. The V-6 employs a continuously-variable transmission and front-drive, while the V-8 packs a six-speed Tiptronic with all-wheel-drive. The 2009 Avant will only be available with the 3.0 TFSI.

The Quattro all-wheel-drive system is also reworked. Old A6s used a 50/50 torque split. For 2009, the A6 will employ the same Quattro system in place on the Audi A5, S5, and Q7. The new system is rear-biased, delivering up to 85 percent of torque to the rear wheels. Audi says this should give the A6 a more “lively” handling dynamic.

That dynamic will be complemented by new front shock absorbers and revised spring rates all around. For maximum sport, though, opt for the S6 sedan: it still carries its 5.2-liter V-10 engine from 2008. Differentiating it from lower models are LED strips mounted in the front air vents and quad exhaust tips.