The Audi A6 Avant (4G, C7 facelift) Competition 3.0 BiTDI V6 quattro Tiptronic, produced from 2014 to 2016, represented a high-performance variant within the A6 Avant (wagon) model range. Positioned as a premium offering, it combined a powerful biturbocharged diesel engine with Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This model was primarily aimed at the European market, where large, practical wagons with significant performance capabilities are highly sought after. It served as a flagship for diesel performance within the A6 lineup, offering a blend of luxury, space, and spirited driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | A6 |
| Generation | A6 Avant (4G, C7 facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | Competition 3.0 BiTDI V6 (326 Hp) quattro Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 168.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 336.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 4000-4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 109.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CVUB |
| Engine displacement | 2967 cm3 (181.06 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.4 mm (3.6 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.4 l (6.76 US qt | 5.63 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2560 kg (5643.83 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1680 l (59.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 85 kg (187.39 lbs.) |
| Length | 4943 mm (194.61 in.) |
| Width | 1874 mm (73.78 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2086 mm (82.13 in.) |
| Height | 1461-1482 mm (57.52 – 58.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2912 mm (114.65 in.) |
| Front track | 1627 mm (64.06 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Front overhang | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1101 mm (43.35 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi A6 Avant (4G, C7 facelift) Competition 3.0 BiTDI V6 quattro Tiptronic, launched in 2014, was a performance-oriented version of the A6 Avant. The C7 generation A6, produced from 2011-2018, received a significant facelift in 2014, bringing revised styling, updated technology, and more efficient engines. The “Competition” trim level, available in select European markets, represented the pinnacle of diesel performance for the A6 Avant. It built upon the already well-regarded A6 platform, known for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and advanced technology. This variant aimed to appeal to drivers who desired a practical wagon with genuine sports car-like acceleration.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the A6 Avant Competition lay the CVUB engine, a 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged diesel engine. This engine utilized a bi-turbocharger setup, employing two turbochargers in series to deliver both strong low-end torque and high-end power. The engine featured a common rail direct injection system, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chambers at extremely high pressure for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The valvetrain employed double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, a staple of Audi’s performance models, provided smooth and rapid gear changes. This transmission allowed for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. The transmission was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s torque characteristics, ensuring optimal acceleration and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 326 horsepower and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the CVUB engine translated into impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took just 5.1 seconds, making it a genuinely quick wagon. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in all weather conditions, enhancing stability and control. The Tiptronic transmission, while smooth, offered a slightly less engaging driving experience compared to a manual gearbox. However, its quick shifts and ability to hold gears during spirited driving compensated for this. The suspension, tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, provided a composed ride even when pushed hard. Compared to the standard A6 Avant 1.8T or 2.0TDI models, the Competition offered a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. It also outperformed the lower-powered diesel variants in terms of acceleration and overall performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Competition trim level came generously equipped. Standard features included sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, brushed aluminum interior trim, a multi-function steering wheel, and Audi’s MMI navigation plus system with a high-resolution display. Exterior features included unique 19-inch alloy wheels, S line styling cues, and darkened window trims. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The interior focused on a sporty yet luxurious aesthetic, with a driver-centric layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The A6 Avant Competition featured a fully independent suspension system, with a multi-link setup at the front and a trapezoidal link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) were standard features, enhancing safety and control. The chassis was specifically tuned to handle the increased power output of the engine, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard A6 Avant.
Market Reception & Comparison
The A6 Avant Competition was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its powerful engine, responsive handling, and luxurious interior. The combination of performance and practicality was particularly appreciated. Fuel economy, while not as high as the lower-powered diesel variants, was still respectable for a vehicle of this performance level. Compared to rivals such as the BMW 5 Series Touring and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, the A6 Avant Competition offered a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and technology. The A6 Avant’s quattro all-wheel-drive system was often cited as a key advantage over its rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Legacy
The CVUB engine, while robust, is known to require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the turbochargers and diesel particulate filter (DPF). Regular oil changes and the use of high-quality fuel are essential for long-term reliability. Today, the A6 Avant Competition represents a desirable used car option for those seeking a high-performance wagon. Its combination of power, practicality, and luxury continues to appeal to enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command a premium in the used car market, reflecting their performance capabilities and relative rarity. The A6 Avant Competition stands as a testament to Audi’s ability to create compelling and capable vehicles that blend performance with everyday usability.
