While the electric A6 E-Tron has already been unveiled and European customers enjoy exclusive access to the new A6 Avant wagon, Audi has finally revealed its mainstream offering: the 2026 A6 sedan, designed for traditional internal combustion. Retaining the core elements of practicality and performance, this model embraces conventional fuel-powered engineering.

The resemblance you notice stems from nearly identical design cues, mirroring both exterior and interior elements of the A6 E-Tron. However, beneath the surface, these models are mechanically distinct: the A6 E-Tron rides on Audi’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), while the combustion-powered A6 Sedan uses the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). Dimensionally, the gasoline variant surpasses its electric counterpart by 2.5 inches in length and 1.5 inches in width, though its wheelbase trails slightly by 0.9 inches. Body styles further differentiate them—the A6 E-Tron features a hatchback layout, whereas the A6 Sedan adopts a traditional three-box profile, complete with a 17.8-cubic-foot trunk.

The gas-powered A6’s interior design closely mirrors the A6 E-Tron, though subtle differences exist in door and dashboard detailing. Addressing prior critiques of excessive screens in the older model, the updated version adopts a streamlined approach. A single curved panel now integrates the driver’s instrument cluster (11.9 inches) and the central touchscreen (14.5 inches). An optional 10.9-inch passenger-side display enables web browsing, video streaming, or navigation assistance, with all content blocked from the driver’s view. Still craving more tech? The available head-up display lets drivers adjust audio and other settings via steering-wheel controls, minimizing distractions.

Audi’s optional premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, featuring up to 20 speakers, pairs with a quieter cabin. Enhanced window, door, and trunk seals reportedly cut interior noise by 30%, while tires incorporate acoustic foam liners (referred to by Audi as “so-called noise absorbers”—a phrase hinting at possible supplier tension) to reduce road hum. Despite the playful jab, these liners effectively muffle tire resonance for a calmer driving experience.

Audi will provide gas, diesel, mild hybrid, and front- or all-wheel-drive configurations globally, though these options will not be available in the U.S. market. Instead, all U.S. A6 models will feature a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 362 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Optional upgrades include adaptive air suspension and four-wheel steering, alongside wheel sizes spanning 19 to 21 inches. The largest 21-inch wheels will come equipped with summer performance tires, replacing the standard all-season run-flats.

The A6 sedan is slated for launch in late 2025, though potential tariff adjustments could impact timing. U.S. pricing, fuel efficiency data, and detailed specifications will be announced closer to the release date, alongside region-specific imagery. Current visuals depict European-spec models exclusively.