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In-depth reviews

2019 Audi A6 review - does the new A6 finally drive better than its rivals? - MPG and running costs

The Audi A6’s core virtues remain, but it doesn’t shine like it once did - rivals still do executive better

Evo rating
  • Refined, top-notch tech and competitive powertrains
  • Doesn’t out-perform rivals in any one area, interior materials not up to usual standards

MPG and running costs

All new A6 models use mild hybrid technology, which in Audi-speak means a belt-driven starter-alternator with the ability to turn the engine on and off in an instant, with a backup pinion starter motor for cold starts.

The system uses 48-volt electrics in the six-cylinder models and 12v electrics in the four-cylinder cars, but the idea is similar - energy recuperation under deceleration, reduced turbo lag, and the ability to occasionally coast with the engine off - good for a 0.7-litre fuel saving every 62 miles, according to Audi.

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Like all new cars, the switch to a WLTP cycle has not helped MPG figures on paper, but at least this time are a pretty accurate representation of what’s achievable. The basic 40 TDI will reach up to 48mpg on a combined cycle, with the 50 TDI dropping to around 40mpg, the 45 TFSI hovering at around 34mpg with the 55 TFSI unsurprisingly coming up least efficient at 30mpg.

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