The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8.

The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8.

      Audi

      Sign up for The Drive Daily

      While we have great admiration for the RS6 Avant, the A6 sedan it's based on has been in existence since 2018. This makes it feel quite outdated, especially when compared to the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class, both of which underwent redesigns in the last two years. For 2026, the Audi A6 is entering its sixth generation with a more aerodynamic design.

      The term “sleeker” is significant here because, believe it or not, this new A6 is the most aerodynamic gas-powered production Audi ever, boasting a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.23—better than that of a C6 Corvette and nearly as streamlined as the electric Porsche Taycan Turbo, which doesn't have to accommodate a large engine. Just for reference, the outgoing R8 supercar from Audi had a Cd of 0.36.

      Audi

      This improvement was achieved through the addition of air curtains along the sides of the new A6, adjustable intakes behind the grille, small fins protruding from the front, “wheel spoilers,” and well-placed underbody shields covering the transmission tunnel and rear axle.

      For the U.S. market, the standard A6 will feature a 362-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. In the U.S., this setup will not include a mild hybrid system as it will in Europe. While there is no official confirmation yet, we can expect more powerful S6 and RS6 variants to follow this standard version.

      Audi

      This new mid-size luxury sedan is 2.36 inches longer than the previous A6 and also features air suspension and all-wheel steering for improved agility and comfort. The steering components have been redesigned for greater physical robustness, and for the first time in an A6, the braking system is operated by wire.

      Sound insulation has improved by 30% over the previous model, thanks to more secure seals on windows, doors, and the tailgate, as well as noise-absorbing features added to the tires. Enhanced engine and transmission mount bushings contribute to overall ride smoothness.

      The A6 is built on the same PPC platform that supports the new Q5 and A5 (which was previously known as the A4). In terms of design, the A6 resembles a larger version of the smaller A5, while its rear styling draws inspiration from Audi’s electric E-Tron models. Overall, the exterior maintains a classic Audi look.

      In the tech department, it features a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, an 11.9-inch instrument display on the dashboard, and an optional 10.9-inch screen for passengers. The panoramic sunroof offers adjustable shading options in six segments, similar to that found in Porsche’s Panamera.

      Manufactured in Neckarsulm, Germany (for the European market at least), the 2026 Audi A6 is expected to arrive in the U.S. in the latter half of this year.

      Got a tip or question for the author about the new A6? You can contact him here: [email protected]

The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8. The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8. The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8. The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8. The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8.

Other articles

Man Infiltrates Dodge Dealership, Then Pleads with Police for Release | Carscoops Man Infiltrates Dodge Dealership, Then Pleads with Police for Release | Carscoops Breaking into a dealership isn't very clever, but calling the police for help really tops it off. Florida Highway Patrol Possesses the Coolest Police Car in America | Carscoops Florida Highway Patrol Possesses the Coolest Police Car in America | Carscoops The 70th Anniversary Corvette, now adorned in black and tan, was seized by the FHP in collaboration with the DEA, and it didn't incur any expenses for state residents. Audi Has Recently Revealed Its Most Aerodynamic Sedan to Date | Carscoops Audi Has Recently Revealed Its Most Aerodynamic Sedan to Date | Carscoops The four-door 2026 A6 sedan, which will be available alongside the station wagon in Europe, draws design cues from the A7. How Globalization Led to the Decline of Distinctive Car Designs, as Explained by Luc Donckerwolke. How Globalization Led to the Decline of Distinctive Car Designs, as Explained by Luc Donckerwolke. Acclaimed automotive designer Luc Donckerwolke is the mastermind behind the current models of Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia, as well as legendary creations such as the Lamborghini Murcielago and Bentley Continental GT. Mazda's Upcoming Miata Conceals an Exciting Surprise Under the Hood | Carscoops Mazda's Upcoming Miata Conceals an Exciting Surprise Under the Hood | Carscoops Meeting stringent emissions regulations would have resulted in a 2.0-liter MX-5 having reduced power, so it is receiving an enhancement. He Received a Complimentary Toyota After Driving 1 Million Miles, and Now He's Reached Another Million | Carscoops He Received a Complimentary Toyota After Driving 1 Million Miles, and Now He's Reached Another Million | Carscoops Let's hope Toyota hears about the milestone and rewards Sheppard with a second complimentary Tundra.

The 2026 Audi A6 is even more aerodynamic than the R8.

With a drag coefficient of 0.23, the new 362-hp A6 is nearly as aerodynamic as a Porsche Taycan, despite Audi having to accommodate an engine in its design.