The magazine"s shots...

The magazine"s shots show the final prototypes being put through their paces near the Arctic Circle, and reveal what executive car buyers have got to look forward to. As you can see, the front end is more pointed that that of its big brother, and will feature the controversial new split-level corporate grille first seen on the W12 A8. Showroom versions will get a chrome finish to the new nose to go with Audi"s four ring badge, although this is missing on these test mules.

At the rear, the current A6"s characteristic light clusters have been replaced by larger, more conservative lamps, but tape has been applied to hide their shape. The arching roofline is another familiar Audi styling cue, and it looks as if designers have worked hard to maintain the profile without compromising rear headroom. As with most of Audi"s range, bread-and-butter models will be front-wheel drive, while sporty variants will feed power through all four wheels and wear the quattro badge.

Entry-level cars will boast a 150bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, while a number of V6 models will be available, alongside the flagship 4.2-litre V8. For company drivers with an eye on CO2 emissions and tax bills, three Euro IV-compliant diesel units will also be offered in 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0-litre sizes.

Following the A6"s unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March, UK sales of the four-door saloon are expected to begin in June. The more practical Avant estate will follow six months later, while a coupнѓ© is pencilled in for late next year. Enthusiasts will have to wait until 2007 for the mighty RS6, which promises nearly 500bhp.

But the future of the four-wheel-drive A6 Allroad hangs in the balance as its position as the German maker"s only off-roader comes under threat. A VW Touareg-based SUV inspired by the Pikes Peak SUV - seen at last year"s Detroit Motor Show - will cater for Audi buyers who want the versatility of raised ride height and maximum traction.