Audi A6 History, Generations, Models, S6, RS6 & More: Evolution of Elegance
If you’re looking for a mid-size luxury executive sedan with comfort as a priority, chances are, the Audi A6 is on top of your list. Since its launch in 1994, the Audi A6 has seamlessly combined elegance, luxury, and comfort. In this DubiCars Car Spotlight article, we take a look at the Audi A6 history, generations, models, and even its performance versions — S6 and RS6.
Here’s a quick fact for you — the Audi A7 and its performance versions — S7 & RS7 are basically the liftback/notchback versions of the A6. Developed as a successor to the well-known Audi 100, the Audi A6 is now one of the best-selling Audi models globally.
Origins Of The Audi A6
The Audi 100 had been in production since 1968 and three generations were produced until 1994. These three generations were codenamed C1, C2, and C3. In 1994, Audi started using a new Alphanumeric naming system starting with the arrival of the Audi A8, which was essentially a renamed Audi V8.
Audi planned to change its entire product lineup to match this new naming system. Hence, when the next generation of the Audi 100 was due to be launched, the German car manufacturer decided to discontinue the ‘100’ model, and instead rename the new generation as the A6.
This was a sedan that was luxurious and plush, and only second to the flagship A8 in terms of the size, list of features, engine size, etc. As a result, the very first Audi A6 generation was codenamed C4 — a continuation of the Audi 100 lineage.
First Generation — C4 | 1994 - 1997
The Audi A6 made its debut in 1994 as the C4 generation, succeeding the Audi 100. The C4 showcased Audi's commitment to innovation and design, featuring a distinctive, aerodynamic body with smooth lines.
Under the bonnet, it offered a range of engines, including inline-4, inline-5, and potent V6 options. It also became the second Audi to feature the famed Quattro all-wheel-drive system paired with an automatic gearbox.
Shortly after the launch of the A6, the Audi S6, a sportier version of the sedan with a more powerful version of the 2.8-litre V6 engine was launched. In 1997, Audi launched the S6 Plus, a high-performance version of the S6, but it was now powered by a 4.2-litre V8 engine. This V8 engine is often considered among the best engines ever developed.
Second Generation — C5 | 1997 - 2004
Third Generation — C6 | 2004 - 2011
Fourth Generation — C7 | 2011 - 2018
Fifth Generation — C8 | 2018 - Present
Most Popular Audi A6 Generations In The UAE
Read the complete Audi A6 Car Spotlight article.
Find new Audi A6 models for sale in the UAE and used Audi A6 models for sale in the UAE.
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