LANCASTER AUDI, Liverpool, has taken delivery of their first Audi A6 Avant, revealing the car's stunning aerodynamic lines.

May 1997 saw the revolutionary Audi A6 saloon make its debut in the executive car market to resounding acclaim. Hailed as the car for the next millennium, 3390 units were registered by December 1997.

The Audi A6 Avant, pictured, embodies the same outstanding qualities of its sister with one vital added bonus - space. Now those, whose lifestyle demands the versatility of an estate, can enjoy the executive finesse of the Audi A6 Avant.

The same versatility has been built into the range's engine line-up. Initially available with the choice of five different powerplants, three with advanced five valves per cylinder technology and two outstanding TDI models.

The familiar 1.8-litre 150 bhp turbocharged engine will power the entry-level model. From here the line-up will develop through the best selling model of the Audi A6 range, the 2.4-litre 165 bhp 30 valve engine, to the amazing 2.8-litre model.

The second of these, which delivers 193 bhp and travels from 0-62 mph in 8.4 seconds, will be available with front wheel drive or as the range topping quattro version.

In addition to these petrol engines, the performances and luxury of the Audi A6 Avant will also be available with the outstanding economy of TDI. The award winning 1.9 TDI 110 offers a maximum speed of 119 mph whilst returning a combined fuel consumption of 48.7 mpg. Add to this the new 2.5 V6 TDI engine, which will also be available with quattro, offering 150 bhp, a top speed of 134 mph and an impressive combined fuel consumption of 40.4 mpg.

Indeed, the Audi A6 Avant fuel consumption figures are almost identical to those of its saloon counterparts, despite offering up to 1590 litres of luggage space and not only do the two share the same basic design, they also weigh much the same. Indeed, the weight difference is only 50 kg with a maximum payload of 580 kg.

Ian Harvey, Audi Brand Manager at Lancaster Audi, explained: "This is certainly a testament to the car's design, showing that the decision to include an Avant model was taken into account right from the Audi A6 concept stage."

The similarity between the two vehicles does not end there. Like its saloon sister, the Audi A6 Avant will offer a remarkable level of specification. Lightweight aluminium alloy wheels, elliposoidal headlamps and aluminium trim strips on the headlights, tailgate and side windows are all fitted as standard, revealing the attention to detail that has gone into the car's design.

Inside, the focus is on the driver's comfort and safety. Height and depth adjustable steering column, concert RDS radio/cassette, electronic climate control and driver, front passenger and front seat airbags all mirror the saloon's features. In addition, however, the Audi A6 Avant also includes black roof rails, a split folding rear seat, a net partition and removable luggage cover.

"The Audi A6 Avant is certainly going to re-affirm Audi's place within the executive segment. It embodies Audi's lightweight aluminium principles and reflects the attention to detail and build quality for which Audi is renowned. I've no doubt that it'll receive the same acclaim as its sister," concluded Ian Harvey.

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