20 years after the debut of the original, the fourth generation Audi A6 Avant allroad has made its debut.

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Audi’s A6 Avant allroad quattro highlights include adaptive air suspension with controlled damping that is specifically tuned to this model, to boost its off-road capabilities. It works by adjusting the ride height depending on the road speed and mode set in the Audi drive select system.

In auto and comfort modes, the A6 allroad quattro is in standard ride height, with a ground clearance of 139mm, this is then actively adjusted according to speed. If the highest ride height is selected at speeds of up to 35km/h, the body is raised 45mm. The body then lowers automatically, when this speed is exceeded. At motorway speeds above 120km/h, the ride height is lowered by 15mm.

However, set ‘offroad’ mode, which is available at speeds up to 80km/h and the body is raised 30mm higher than the normal ride height. This is not high as the A6 allroad’s suspension can go, as traveling at slow speeds below 35km/h, the lift mode can add another 15mm – increasing ground clearance to a massive 45mm above the normal position. The A6 allroad quattro can tow up to 2.5 tons.

In addition to the trick suspension, the A6 allroad quattro offers additional standard off-roading features, including standard hill descent control and tilt angle assist. Tilt angle assist works via the MMI monitor, which shows the current tilt angle in the longitudinal and transverse directions – where the vehicle is at risk of tipping over, a warning appears.

Outside, you’ll spot the A6 allroad quattro by its wide, low Single frame grille with its vertical aluminium struts at the front, plus the chunkier body attachments and allroad-specific roof rails at the side.

In the UK the new A6 allroad quattro will initially be available with a choice of two 3.0-litre V6 TDI engines. Both incorporating Audi’s mild hybrid technology (MHEV), which makes driving even smoother and reduces fuel consumption. It works with a new 48-volt main electrical system.

The entry-level model used in the A6 allroad 45 TDI produces 228hp and 500Nm of torque. The A6 allroad quattro 50 TDI, produces 282hp and 620Nm of torque.

The new Audi A6 allroad quattro is due to go on sale in Germany and other European markets in June. The list price of the entry-level TDI in Germany will be €61,500.