Audi A6

The rival to the hugely popular BMW 5 Series has been overhauled, copying the recently launched A7 in only offering mild hybrid drivetrains as the firm moves towards an increasingly electrified range.

Two engines will be offered at launch in the form of one petrol and one diesel.

The 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged petrol engine offers 335bhp and 500Nm of torque, returning 35.1mpg and emitting 151g/km of CO2 in its eco-friendliest state.

Meanwhile, the diesel engine of the same size makes 282bhp and 620Nm of torque, achieving 40.6mpg and 150g/km of CO2.

Electrification comes in the form of a small electric motor run from a lithium-ion battery, which can recharge itself by recovering up to 12kW of

energy while decelerating. The A6 can coast between 34 and 99mph to conserve fuel and Audi reckons this offers improved economy of approximately 3mpg.

Inside, there’s more space and a modernised interior, similar to that first seen on the A8 and A7. Up front, there’s Audi’s now-familiar digital instrument binnacle, while the centre console is dominated by a pair of touchscreens that house all of the vehicle’s functions, including climate controls, satellite navigation and entertainment.

Boot space remains at 530 litres – on a par with the BMW 5 Series – with Audi claiming it’s possible to fit two golf clubs inside horizontally.

The German car manufacturer says it has upped the sportiness of its new model, too. Key to this is the all-wheel steering, which sees the rear wheels able to turn to a small degree to improve cornering agility and high speed stability.

It’s used to great effect on the new A7, so expect the A6 to handle country roads better than its predecessor.

Pricing for the existing model starts at £33,160 in the UK, but the new model is expected to jump in price on account of the improved on-board technology. Deliveries will begin in the summer.