Preview: 2026 Audi A6 Sedan is Evolved in All the Right Ways

Audi’s approach to electrification is changing course, with the automaker abandoning plans for an entire emissions-free shift — at least for now.

Instead, gas-powered models with varying degrees of hybrid technology are joining their all-electric counterparts, including the redesigned 2026 Audi A6 that’s managed to defy the death knell that was tolling for it — or at least for its name — not too long ago. Don’t forget, it was only last year that the A6 E-Tron launched as part of a new structure that would have seen Audi switch to an entirely electric lineup by 2032.

In the face of shifting sentiment and softer demand for electric vehicles (EVs) than anticipated, Audi called an audible by building a gas-powered version of the A6 that was originally destined to be dead and gone after this year. And while it shares the same general shape as the A6 E-Tron, as well as certain styling cues, this internal combustion model has evolved in all the right ways compared to its predecessor.

Like a Suit

In describing the A6’s new look as being like a suit, exterior designer Francesco d’Amore spoke to the way the car’s been sculpted and shaped to set it apart from its predecessor without drawing too much attention. Indeed, its dimensions are strikingly similar to the outgoing version, with a total length that’s been stretched 60 mm (2.4 in), yet the new styling looks neater and more tailored than before.

“It’s a car that you just put on and you feel confident,” d’Amore said. “You don’t always want to be looked at.”

Unsurprisingly, the look is a lot like that of the A6 E-Tron, as well as the redesigned 2025 Audi Q5, although it’s hardly a copy-paste job. In particular, the front end features a lower and wider grille that has Audi’s four-ring emblem sort of perched on top rather than incorporated within it, while the sharply squinting headlights have subtle aluminum honeycomb patterns inside.

Those lights include different styles that can be selected through the infotainment interface, as do the ones around back. The tail lights also animate in different circumstances — say, when stopped at night — to catch the attention of other road users, although it’s unlikely this feature will make it to Canadian examples of the A6. (The same is true of its EV sibling.)

On the subject of the rear end, the trunk lid features an almost ducktail-like integrated spoiler that accentuates the shapeliness of the car’s hindquarters. According to d’Amore, the trunk itself was originally supposed to be made of aluminum, but it was switched for steel late in the development process in order to create the sharpest possible crease.

Beyond the aesthetic advantages, d’Amore said the shape of the trunk lid helped shave another couple hundredths off the sedan’s drag coefficient. Along with the air curtains created around the wheels through the use of stylish and functional intakes, the feature brought the A6’s magic number down to 0.23 — the lowest of any Audi powered by an internal-combustion engine.

Other design elements worthy of a shoutout include the pronounced fenders front and back that flow in and out of the door panels. Not only do they give the 2026 A6 a stronger stance, but they help emphasize “where the power comes from,” d’Amore said — a direct link to the sedan’s standard all-wheel drive configuration.

A Modern Interior

As bold as the exterior styling may be, it’s the cabin that’s far more revolutionary. It’s virtually identical to the one in the A6 E-Tron, with infotainment acting as the star of the show. The setup includes a 14.5-inch touchscreen incorporated within the same curved glass panel as the 11.9-inch driver information display. Meanwhile, a separate 10.9-inch touchscreen is available to give front-seat passengers fingertip access to in-vehicle information and entertainment.

While there’s perhaps a bit too much gloss-black plastic inside — which is also true of the all-electric Audi Q6 E-Tron that looks similar — it’s a serious upgrade over the outgoing A6’s interior. Like the electric version of this executive sedan, the 2026 A6 is also available with an electrochromic glass roof that features adjustable opacity; simply flick a switch on the headliner to change how much light it lets through.

Mild Hybrid Motoring

As with before, the A6 sedan has a 3.0L V6 under its hood that features a pair of turbochargers as well as mild-hybrid technology. The engine is an evolution of the outgoing motor, according to Audi, with redesigned turbos that use variable turbine geometry to maximize boost pressure throughout the rev range.

Additionally, the 48-volt mild hybrid system can chip in with extra torque for an electrified punch, or it can take over entirely under light throttle load situations. Coasting and low-speed manoeuvres like parking can be done under emissions-free power thanks to the system, which uses a 1.7-kWh battery. Meanwhile, it can add about 24 hp of help. Official output numbers will be confirmed closer to launch, but the powertrain should generate about 362 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque.

Final Thoughts

While Audi’s long been criticized for the sameness of its styling from one generation to the next, the new A6 has adopted perhaps the boldest new look to date. It’s simultaneously sleeker and bolder than before, while its interior has been launched into a new era that coincides with the brand’s electrified shift.

The 2026 Audi A6 is set to hit Canadian dealers in the third quarter of this year. Expect pricing details closer to the on-sale date.