2018 Audi A6 and A7 range gets new 2-litre diesel engine

Audi’s new 2-litre diesel engine is about to be introduced in the latest-generation A6 and A7 range. Both these models, currently on sale in Europe, will get the more efficient and powerful 2-litre engine starting November this year. 

Going into the details, the 2-litre, 203bhp TDI motor will be available with the A6 sedan, estate and the A7 sportback. This will be the first time that a four-cylinder motor has been introduced in the A7 range. All versions are initially front-wheel-drive, with a four-wheel-drive version of each model following later in 2018 that will employ the latest quattro all-wheel drive tech.

The new models will also get Audi’s new mild hybrid tech. Its key component is a belt alternator starter connected to the crankshaft which, in this application, can recover up to 7bhp of power during deceleration periods and store it in a separate lithium-ion battery housed in the rear of the car. If the driver takes his foot off the accelerator at speeds of between 55kmph and 158kmph, the TDI can also coast with the engine running at idling speed. 

As soon as the driver accelerates again, the BAS restores power. Equally importantly, the near-seamless activation and deactivation of the system and the low engine speeds that it permits make progress feel more relaxed.