The 1998 generation Audi A6 received its first - and only - facelift in 2001.
Apart from the redesigned lines (including revised headlights, a newly-developed front grille and redesigned exhaust system) the new A6 Avant was equipped with an innovative multitronic continuously variable transmission (for front-wheel-drive models) and optional ‘quattro’ permanent all-wheel-drive system for most models. Some of the engines were modified and received extra horsepower, while the 1.8L unit was replaced by a new 130 HP 2.0L engine. It was discontinued in 2004, with the introduction of a new generation A6 model.