Audi is going big on plug-in hybrids. So big that two have arrived more or less at once.

Let’s start small(er), with the A6 55 TFSI e quattro and the terrible images Audi supplied to accompany news of its release. The saloon pairs a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol with 249bhp to a small electric motor and 14.1kWh battery, giving totals of 362bhp, 500Nm and a claimed 53km of electric-only range. 0-100kph takes 5.6 seconds and the top speed is 249kph, while Audi claims CO2 emissions of as low as 43g/km and the equivalent of 148mpg - approx. 1.9 litres/100km.

Then we have the A8 L 60 TFSI e quattro, which gets a 3.0-litre V6 to go along with its electric motor and battery. Total output is 443bhp and 699Nm, giving 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds and a 249kph top speed. Not quite as efficient as the A6 though, down to its increased size and weight. You’ll only be able to drive around 45km before the battery runs out of juice, while Audi claims a measly 112mpg - approx. 2.5 litres/100km - and 57g/km. 

Both are all-wheel drive, but the A8 has an eight-speed automatic while the A6 has to make do with a seven-speeder. Their respective drivetrains operate in much the same way through – three modes (EV, Hybrid and Hold) for the hybrid system alongside the existing Comfort, Efficiency, Auto and Dynamic modes, regenerative braking and a plug to juice up the battery overnight.

Ordering for the A8 opens at the end of this year. No news on the A6, but assuming it’s coming to the UK, it shouldn’t be long after.