The devil really is in the detail for Audi A6 Saloon and Avant and A7 Sportback models this week as a new Black Edition specification lends the acclaimed executive ranges a distinctly darker air.

The three new Black Edition models combine their more emphatic styling with the most extensive equipment list in each range, and are priced from £35,010 OTR to £56,785 OTR.   Black Edition distinguishing features start from the ground up with rotor-design alloy wheels with a dark titanium finish and either a 20-inch diameter in the A6 Saloon and Avant or 21 inches in the A7 Sportback. These stunning wheels amply fill their arches in the A6 helped by lowered sports suspension which is a standard feature of the S line models on which the new specification is based, and in the A7 Sportback by further lowered S line sports suspension.

The darker side of all three models is also expressed externally by a black finish for the grille and number plate surrounds and the window frame strips, and by privacy glass extending from the B-pillar rearwards. Fittingly, the A6 Avant Black Edition is also equipped with black roof rails.

Inside, the scene is set by distinctive Piano Black inlays which complement the sports seats upholstered in black Valcona leather and the black headlining. In A6 and A6 Avant models, the already comprehensive S line equipment list is also expanded by a BOSE surround sound system, DAB digital radio and the Audi Music Interface (AMI) for iPod connection. The A7 Sportback Black Edition gains the BOSE upgrade, and already features DAB radio and AMI as standard from SE specification and above.

In the A6 models the foundation S line specification also brings features such as exclusive S line exterior and interior styling enhancements, satellite navigation, light and rain sensors, Xenon all-weather headlights and LED rear lights, the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system, the Audi parking system plus and keyless go. On top of these, the A7 Sportback also includes extras such as powered tailgate operation, electrically adjustable front seats and a powered retractable rear spoiler.

Tour de Force
The new Black Edition specification is an ideal accompaniment to the formidable 3.0-litre BiTDI unit with its 313PS and 650Nm of torque, which is available in all three ranges. It combines exceptional performance that perfectly suits the more purposeful stance achieved by the Black Edition upgrade, but can also deliver a remarkable 44.1mpg according to the combined cycle test.  In the A6 range Black Edition specification is also available in conjunction with all engines from the 177PS 2.0-litre TDI upwards, excluding S6 models, and with either front-wheel-drive or quattro all-wheel-drive. In the A7 Sportback, it can be enjoyed in all versions bar the front-wheel-drive 3.0-litre TDI 204PS and the S7 Sportback.