New Audi A6 Sedan Teased Ahead of April 15 Debut, Drops A7 Sportback in Model Shake-Up

Audi has released the first official teaser images of the next-generation A6 sedan, set for global premiere on April 15. The move follows the earlier debut of the A6 Avant wagon, marking an unusual rollout order for the new model line. While the full design remains under wraps, the teaser confirms that the sedan will mirror the Avant’s design language—featuring a continuous rear LED light bar and OLED taillights, part of Audi’s evolving aesthetic signature.

In line with broader industry trends, the 2026 A6 adopts a full-width LED light bar at the rear, a visual element intended to give the sedan a more planted and wide-stance appearance. The use of OLED lighting also signals Audi’s push toward high-tech, customizable lighting solutions across its premium offerings. Notably, the new A6 eschews fake exhaust tips, a move aligned with the company’s recent commitment to authenticity in exterior design.

Initially, Audi had plans to rebrand the A6 as the A7 to help delineate its internal combustion engine (ICE) lineup from its electric vehicles (EVs)—an approach that would have seen odd numbers used for ICE and even numbers for EVs. However, that strategy has been scrapped, and the A6 badge will remain. The teaser even hints at that internal back-and-forth, with the "A6" logo nearly being replaced by an "A7" badge.

Perhaps more significantly, Audi has decided to discontinue the A7 Sportback. Once the sleeker, more stylish five-door sibling to the A6 sedan, the Sportback will not return in this generation. This simplifies the brand’s sedan portfolio but eliminates a body style that has carved out a niche for itself among design-conscious buyers.

Under the hood, the A6 sedan will mirror the powertrains already announced for the A6 Avant. The entry-level variant will feature a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine generating 198 bhp and 339 Nm of torque. A 3.0-litre V6 will serve as the more powerful petrol option, delivering 357 bhp and 550 Nm. Diesel buyers will be offered a 2.0-litre TDI unit producing 198 bhp and 400 Nm.

The RS6, as with previous generations, will remain exclusive to the Avant body style. While specific details have yet to be confirmed, expectations are that the performance flagship will retain its V8 engine, potentially with hybrid assistance to comply with tightening emissions norms.