Darkness falls on the Audi A6 range again this month as the popular Black Edition specification becomes available for the latest generation Saloon and Avant models in Europe. Already a firm favourite with customers ordering the previous generation model, the new top tier A6 specification can be combined with all engines in the new range.

Building on the foundations of the performance-focused S line specification, the Black Editions upgrade from a 19-inch wheel to a gloss turned 20-inch V-spoke design in matte titanium. They also feature a black finish for the radiator grille surround, front air intakes, door mirror housings and rear diffuser, plus the roof rails in Avant models. Privacy glass for the rear windows also helps to set the tone.

All the mild hybrid powertrains in the range can be combined with the new specification, from the 201bhp and 241bhp four-cylinder engines powering the 40 TDI and 45 TFSI through to the 282bhp and 335bhp six-cylinder options in the 50 TDI and 55 TFSI.

The dark undertones complement an already extensive S line equipment list, which enhances the body with exclusive front and rear styling applications, lowers it onto tauter sport suspension and adds even more technical appeal through an upgrade from the standard LED head lights to segmented Matrix LED units capable of diverting their beams around leading or oncoming traffic.

Inside, front sport seats in leather and Alcantara, a perforated leather multi-function sport steering wheel with shift paddles and dark brushed aluminium inlays lend a suitably sporting air. The fully digital MMI touch response operating concept provides the ahead-of-its-time technological sophistication that is synonymous with Vorsprung durch Technik.

Two full HD colour touchscreen displays, the upper measuring 8.8 inches in diameter and the lower 8.6 inches, form the basis of the MMI touch response concept, and work in conjunction with a 7.0-inch full-colour Driver Information System in the instrument binnacle.

Prospective Black Edition drivers looking to take the on-board technology to the next level can opt for the Technology Pack, which brings the upgraded MMI Navigation Plus system with Google Earth mapping, personal route assistance and enhanced natural voice recognition, plus a larger 10.1-inch upper MMI screen, the fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit and the Audi Phone Box with wireless charging for QI-enabled compatible phones.

Comfort and convenience on board can be enhanced further still by options such as powered door closure, acoustic glazing and a 1,920W Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system.