Audi's image has continued to thrive by delivering outstanding quality and the high performance worthy of a world-class luxury brand. While the German manufacturer makes a living off its standard A-Class sedans (A4/A6/A8), there is a growing wave of enthusiasm brewing about the newest S6.
I recently tested the S6 and it looks a lot like its A6 sibling with some notable aggressive exterior accents that merely hint at the possibilities once you get into this sedan. Once you got past the beautiful blue pearl paint and rich, black interior, the real difference is under the hood - where all the accolades for this new luxury sedan roadrunner are easily earned.
The S6 combines the exhilarating power of a compact V-10 with the stability and control of Audi's signature Quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system. So, there's lots of power on demand but it thankfully stays glued to the pavement.
The Audi S6 is equipped with a new V-10 FSI engine that delivers 435 hp at 6,800 rpm and 398 ft.-lbs. of torque between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic and Dynamic Shift Program make for a custom fit for every driver behind the wheel.
The FSI means "fuel straight injection," which could most closely be compared to direct fuel injection. Call it whatever you want, but the real point is that the fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber with explosive results.
With the V-10 FSI, the S6 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Audi says the S6 is governed to reach a maximum of 155 mph. I can easily see, and believe, both claims.
This V-10 in the S6 made its debut in the Audi S8, though it has been wonderfully retuned for smaller S6. Rest assured, the chassis, transmission, brakes and the steering have all been adapted to reflect the S6's power. The S6 handles great in all road conditions with one passenger or three, loaded trunk or empty, Ozzy Osbourne or REM CDs playing, it did not matter. The S6 is fun and luxurious all at the same time.
Not that you'll likely need it, but the S6 comes with 4-year roadside assistance. The entire Audi infantry of safety measures is available on the S6. You expect this kind of attention to safety with Audi and you get it.
Once inside the S6, you'll find lavish materials and quality fit and finish. Supple leather is seats you comfortably and firmly in place. That's important while taking an entry cloverleaf at 60 mph.
I'd be remiss to not mention the very unique Gray Birch wooden inlays appearing in the dash, console and doors. These are the types of subtle styling cues that make this a world-class luxury sedan. At the center of the dash is the 7-inch color screen for the Multi-Media Interface that controls audio, climate and other necessary communication functions.
Noise inside the S6 is non-existent; high-end digital Bose-enhanced sound most definitely is readily available. I enjoyed the convenience of the 6-disc changer. Sound quality was outstanding.
While my tester had a starting price of $72,000, there was a Technology Package costing $3,900 that really seemed like it had to be part of this overachieving S6. The package included voice recognition, a Nav system, Sirius Satellite Radio and several other high-tech accoutrements.
At a grand total of $79,070, this Audi S6 really has to be considered one of the best of the breed. Sure, at 15/21 fuel mileage you will create an intimate relationship with the local fueling stop, but for those choosing the almighty V-10 it should make little difference.
|