Audi, the luxury division of Germany’s largest automaker, Volkswagen, is brining back more models from the high-performance S sedan in the 2007 model year. Timing could not be better.
The 2006 calendar year was a record breaker for Audi, with sales reaching 90,116 units, up nicely from approximately 83,000 in 2005. As recently as 1993, sales were hovering around only 12,500 units. Audi’s brand positioning is that of a sporty, progressive and sophisticated vehicle.
Audi’s ‘S’ line up is a low-volume, high-performance niche differentiating from the more volume-intended ‘A’ lineup (A3, A4, A6, A8). The S vehicles are set to do battle with other tuned-up offerings from Audi’s key German rivals; Mercedes-Benz has its high-performance AMG line while BMW sports the M division of high-spirited wheels. The 2007 S lineup includes the compact S4, midsize S6 and top-line S8.
Both the S6 and S8 (high-performance versions of the A6 and A8) are all-new in 2007, with production of the previous-generation S6 ending in 2004. At first glance, exterior styling of the S6 is rather unassuming save for the front grille with familiar four-ring Audi logo flanked by narrow band headlight housing. Upon closer look, however, such features as four tailpipes, aluminum-look exterior mirrors and nineteen-inch cast aluminum wheels along with wider performance tires start setting the S6 apart from the A6. Also, the high-performance S6 has a firmer suspension setting then the A6’s more sporty ride. Handling in the S6 is exceptional thanks to more responsive steering. The last time S6 graced Audi’s lineup was in 2003.
The V-10 badging on both front fenders, however, gives one clue of what’s lurking under the hood…and what sets the S6 apart. A 5.2-liter, double overhead cam, normally-aspirated, V-10 engine cranks out an impressive 435 horses. Thanks to substantial low-end torque, only a gentle accelerator tap is needed to get this vehicle up and going. Audi’s race-inspired FSI technology allows direct injection of gasoline into the engine combustion chamber to fully maximize fuel and air interaction. This engine is unique to Audi, but is somewhat similar to V-10 engines found in some Laborghini vehicles. Lamborghini is a member of the Audi/Volkswagen family.
A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard (manual transmission is not offered). This same V-10 engine graces the slightly larger Audi flagship S8. Unlike its midsize rear-wheel-drive BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 counterparts, Audi’s S6 features quattro all-wheel-drive for sure-footed gripping during inclement weather conditions, like those found here in Chicagoland right now. All S models have permanent quattro all-wheel-drive standard which requires no input from the driver. Premium unleaded fuel is required for the 21.1 gallon tank.
The 15 miles per gallon city and 21 m.p.g. highway qualifies this V-10 powerpack for a gas guzzler tax at the time of sale ($1,300). The trade off is a zero to 60 mph time in 5.1 seconds. Large-vented disc brakes help braking performance of this-V-10 powered machine.
Since it’s a luxury sedan, standard features are many and options few. About the only option in this vehicle starting at $72,000 was a $3,900 tech package featuring navigation system, back-up camera and Sirius satellite radio increasing the bottom line to around $79,000 including destination charge figured. Even with options, the price is about $6,000 less than the starting point of a BMW M-5 or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.
Inside, the flat instrument panel includes two circular pods with a left-side tachometer and right side speedometer. In the center of the two is a square, digital message center with outside temperature listing, gear shift indicator and sound system information. A cruise control appendage is found on the steering column’s left side.
The six-speed automatic transmission shifter in between the bucket seats is surrounded by several buttons creating a ‘U’ shape along with two chrome dials. Many of these functions are used to control the sound system and optional navigation screen in the center dashboard. Secondary audio and station pre-set controls are located on the three-spoke steering wheel, which come in handy since no dials or buttons are found on the traditional center dashboard location. Temperature controls, which are found in the traditional center dashboard area, consist of a dual-zone dials for temperature an push panels for direction and fan speed.
Silk Nappa leather seating is supportive and comfortable. The mid-size S6 has average leg and head room with two people fitting most comfortably in back thanks to two formed seat cushions rather than a straight across bench. A fold down center arm rests holds a first-aid kit in case of a minor emergency. Dual ceiling reading lights are also in back. |