AUDI's Nuvolari quattro concept, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this week, is rumoured to be the best clue yet to the shape of the next A6, due to be make its debut in September.
Named after the racing driver Tazio Nuvolari, it is the second key concept from Audi in less than three months, following the Pikes Peak crossover study revealed at the Detroit motor show in January.
Walter de'Silva, design chief for Audi, said: "The Nuvolari Quattro outlines the direction that Audi's exterior and interior design will take.
"We are aware of our brand's heritage and will continue in evolutionary steps."
The Nuvolari is described as a "Gran Turismo for tomorrow" and uses space frame technology for its aluminium body, just like the A8, to give an excellent power-to-weight ratio. The size though is more that of the current A6.
This concept is fitted with the most powerful engine Audi has yet developed for a roadgoing vehicle - a five litre V10 bi-turbo producing 600 bhp and maximum torque of 750Nm. That's enough to give 0-62 mph acceleration of just 4.1 seconds and a top speed governed to 155 mph.
Tazio Nuvolari was the last driver to win a grand prix in an Auto Union car - the famed forbear of today's Audi brand - in Belgrade on September 3, 1939.