Audi is working quickly to update its lineup these days, with the 2009 Audi A6 the latest model to get a makeover. While it's not getting the same level of attention as the redesigned 2009 A4, a major engine addition and a number of minor tweaks should help the refreshed A6 maintain lead in global sales over the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which it holds despite selling just 12,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2007, compared with almost 49,000 for the E-Class and more than 54,000 for the 5 Series.New to the 2009 Audi A6's engine options is a supercharged, 3.0L direct-injection V-6 rated at 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque in U.S. spec. Called the 3.0 TSFI V6, the engine has a relatively high 10.5:1 compression ratio, a bore size of 3.33 in. and a stroke of 3.5 in. The supercharger is a Roots-style unit with twin four-vane rotors housed entirely between the cylinder banks. The vanes can spin at up to 23,000 rpm, pushing through 2204.6 lb of air per hour at a maximum boost pressure of 11.6 psi. This design allows the engine to hit its torque peak at just 2500 rpm and sustain that output until 4850 rpm. Peak power comes at slightly below 5000 rpm and revolutions top out at 6500 rpm. The entire package is fairly lightweight, tipping the scales at about 417 lb.
Although straight-line performance and fuel-economy numbers for the U.S.-spec 3.0L TSFI engine aren't yet available, the European version -- rated at 290 hp -- helps the A6 sprint 0-to-62 mph in 5.9 sec with an electronically limited 155 mph, all while getting a combined fuel economy of 24.8 mpg (European cycle).
The 3.0L TSFI will be the lone engine offered in the A6 Avant and it largely replaces the existing 255-hp 3.2L V-6, which will continue to serve duty in the front-drive version of the A6 sedan mated to a continuously variable transmission. All A6s fitted with the new V-6 will come with a new rear-biased 40/60 torque split version of Audi's signature quattro AWD system mated to a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic. The optional 350-hp 4.2L V-8 remains unchanged, as does the 435-hp 5.2L V-10 that powers the S6. The RS6 and its 580-hp twin-turbo 5.0L V-10 is still not expected to make it to North American shores, despite the arrival of a sedan variant.
Audi has also reportedly massaged the A6's suspension in an effort to further improve both comfort and handling, with new, large-diameter shocks up front being the major change, along with improved spring response. We won't get Audi's air suspension for our versions of the A6, however.
In addition to the new engine and underpinning updates, the 2009 A6 also undergoes some minor cosmetic changes and interior upgrades. There are new R8-inspired headlights equipped with LED daytime running lights, a new front fascia featuring different foglamps, and a revised grille. At the rear, Audi is adding two-piece LED taillights with nighttime optics to the sedan, which are similar to that of the current A6 Avant. There are also new wheels, additional interior aluminum trim on the steering wheel and other surfaces, and higher-resolution instrument cluster graphics. The A6's optional side assist blind-spot detection system turns on an alarm light on the side mirror if it detects a vehicle the way. In European spec, the system kicks in at 37.3 mph (60 km/h) and can detect cars as far as 164 ft (50 meters) away. Last, a new third-generation version of Audi's MMI Multi Media System is coming for next fall for the 2010 model.
The 2009 Audi A6 makes its global debut this month at the Moscow auto show and goes on sale in January 2009 in the U.S. Pricing will be announced at a later date, but expect it to remain roughly the same as that of the present car.
