Attached to its various powerplants, Audi has introduced a new 'ML' series transmission, the designation standing for "Manual/Longitudinal." It features shorter throws as well as better economy, by using six gears to extract the most from each engine. The Multitronic CVT chain-driven gearbox, first introduced in the A4 Cabriolet, is also available as an alternative to the normal automatic. Seven "artificial gears," which are little more than set ratios within the variable gearbox, have been added to provide a sequential-like sporty feel. For those who want a traditional automatic, a six-speed ZF unit will be provided with
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| Audi designers have made the new A6's interior even more driver-centric. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
Tiptronic manual mode. This automatic, the only one expected to be available in North America, is optimized for the torque-heavy 3.2 liter V6 and 4.2 liter V8, as well as the 3.0 TDI V6. Quattro is standard on the V8 and 3.0 TDI models, while optional on the 3.2 V6. Front wheel drive is standard on this, and other engine combinations.
While the transmission tunnel remains intact, with one of the various shifters atop the console, the new A6 offers a twist on the traditional Audi interior. The car's designers have made it even more driver-centric.
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| The cockpit has been tastefully finished with wood and aluminum trim, catering to both sport and luxurious tastes. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
The dashboard is cleanly laid out with white-lit instrumentation and a central information station. Meanwhile, the center console has been angled towards the driver like in the BMW 3-Series. The large 6.5 inch (165 mm) LCD display, which is operated via Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface), controls the car's hi-fi system, hands-free telephone and navigation. Many of its controls and functions have been heavily influenced or borrowed from the luxurious A8, such as the four-spoke steering wheel with thumbwheel controls, and the space-saving electro-mechanical parking brake. The cockpit has been tastefully finished with wood and aluminum trim, catering to both sport and luxurious tastes. These changes accompany the standard Audi fare, which includes soft-touch plastics, well-bolstered seats and plenty of leg, head, and shoulder room for passengers in front and back.
