- First use of adaptive cornering light with powerful Xenon plus units
- Introduction of the Multi Media Interface (MMI)
- S6: First Audi model with a V10 engine
- First model in its class with adaptive air suspension
Awards and Honors
- 2004
- Most Beautiful Automobile in the World (Luxury Sedan category)
- 2004
- Auto Bild Design Award
- 2005
- World Car of the Year
- 2005
- ADAC Yellow Angel in the “Best Car” category
The Audi A6 C6, produced from 2004 to 2011, was the third generation of the Audi A6 and the sixth model in the Audi C series. It was first presented in April 2004 at the Geneva Motor Show. It stood out at first glance with the new Singleframe grille that defined Audi's brand identity. The A6 C6 was available as both a sedan and a station wagon (Avant), with a special long version (A6L) produced for the Chinese market for the first time.
The engine range of the A6 C6 included numerous gasoline and diesel engines with displacements from 2.0 to 5.2 liters. Particularly noteworthy was the sporty S6, equipped for the first time with a V10 engine. Technologically, the A6 C6 set new standards, being the model that introduced the Multi Media Interface (MMI) for controlling central vehicle functions. Other innovations included adaptive air suspension and LED daytime running lights.
In the fall of 2008, the A6 C6 underwent a facelift. The Singleframe grille, bumpers, air intakes and fog lights were redesigned. Daytime running lights were integrated into the headlights and the optional Xenon plus technology was recognizable by the horizontal LED strip. The body was lowered by 2 cm and the two highest transmission gears were longer to reduce fuel consumption.