Audi S6 Review: Performance and Luxury Combined

Say hello to the Audi S6, Audi's performance-oriented version of the A6. When I drove the Audi A6 earlier (you can read about it here), I found the driving experience quite disengaged from the driver and the car a bit slow, even though the mid-optioned A6 with a turbocharged V6 producing 340 HP should not feel like that.

Performance: Can It Run?

The Audi S6 can run. It is quick in a straight line, achieving 0-100 kph in just 4.4 seconds. The engine in this car is a complicated piece of engineering, featuring a twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 444 HP, mated to an 8-speed gearbox with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system for an additional boost. The acceleration is instantaneous and linear, with barely any turbo lag experienced. The car comes with multiple drive modes, with the dynamic mode being the most enjoyable for driving.

Handling: If It Can Run, Can It Jump?

By "jump," if you mean can it handle, then yes, the Audi S6 can handle itself. It comes equipped with Audi's legendary Quattro AWD system, rear-wheel steering, and air suspension. The car feels nimble and agile, but the biggest drawback is the steering feel. The steering feels overly artificial and does not communicate effectively what the wheels are doing, which can reduce the confidence to push the car through bends. More real feedback in the steering could make this the perfect car on sale today.

Technology: Did You Say Tech? What Else Does It Have?

The Audi S6 is packed with advanced technology. It features semi-autonomous driving aids, including:

• Adaptive cruise control with speed limiter
• Efficiency assist
• Swerve assist and turn assist
• Head-up display
• Lane change warning with Audi pre-sense rear
• Exit warning system
• Rear cross-traffic assist

For music lovers, the S6 boasts a superb Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system. The complete AUDI MMI dual digital infotainment screens include a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen on top and a secondary 8.6-inch display at the bottom. The upper screen handles navigation, audio controls, and other entertainment features, while the lower one provides access to vehicle settings and climate control. The S6 also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Interior Quality: Is It a Looker?

It is nearly impossible to find faults in the Audi S6's interiors. The cabin is adorned with leather and twill-designed carbon fiber. The interior is spacious and luxurious, comfortably accommodating five passengers.

The seats feature a diamond quilted design reserved for Audi's performance-oriented models. Notably, Audi has perfected the gear lever design, making it one of the best to rest your hand on in the market.

Exterior Design: All in All, a Looker?

The Audi S6 builds upon the handsome profile of the A6, featuring a broad, muscular silhouette. Key differences between the A6 and S6 include:

• Rear quad pipe setup with a rear diffuser
• More aggressive front lip and side skirts
• Bigger 21-inch tires and rims
• Exterior blacked-out design pack replacing chrome accents
• S6 badges on the front and rear

Overall, only discerning individuals will recognize that this is an S6; for others, it appears to be a regular A6, embodying a stealthy wolf-in-sheep's-clothing vibe.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Audi S6 is an excellent car, perfect for families or individuals who enjoy fast, efficient cruising. Priced at $109,000 or AED 404,000, the S6 presents better value for money compared to the mid-optioned six-cylinder model. I would recommend considering either the 2.0-liter variant or the S6 for a well-rounded performance experience.