New Audi S6 In Depth

Press Release

Page 1 – Overview
Page 2 – Engine
Page 3 – Drivetrain
Page 4 – Chassis
Page 5 – Design
Page 6 – Interior
Page 7 – Safety
Page 8 – Extras
Page 9 – Tradition

Refined power in the sports luxury class

Distinct sports appeal, elegant style and supreme comfort - these are the characteristic features of the current Audi A6. At the time of its market launch in 2004, this luxury-class saloon shot straight to the top of the luxury segment thanks to its dynamic qualities. The Ingolstadt brand is now unveiling a sporty top version of the very highest calibre.

The Audi S6 stands for unequivocal dynamism, as expressed by the engine, transmission, suspension and design, for sporting luxury and for eminent exclusivity. The saloon and Avant will be appearing on the market in mid-2006, priced at EUR 79,800 and EUR 82,000 respectively (prices in Germany).

The new Audi S6 will be powered by a new V10 engine that exploits the technology of the Lamborghini Gallardo super sports car but has since undergone radical refinement; it is also used in a virtually identical form in the new Audi S8. The ten-cylinder engine of undersquare configuration develops 435 bhp (320 bhp) from a swept volume of 5.2 litres at 6,800 rpm, and a torque of 540 Nm. The latter is achieved at engine speeds of between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm.

As on the Le Mans winning R8, the successful racing car, FSI petrol direct injection assures superior power output in the new Audi S6. The saloon sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, with the Avant taking an only marginally longer 5.3 seconds, and its top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h.

The advantages of this pioneering engine are very well defined:

• Substantial engine torque at low revs

• Sporty behaviour thanks to engine speeds of up to 7,000 rpm

• Highly spontaneous response, short reaction time

• Shorter shift times, even swifter gear changes

• Typical, gutsy sound when accelerating

• Perfect synthesis of sporty driving pleasure and comfortable long-distance suitability

The transmission, steering, chassis and brakes of the S6 have been modified to reflect the engine's power. The latest generation of quattro permanent four-wheel drive with asymmetric/dynamic torque split transmits this power to all four wheels.

The firmer settings of the springs, dampers and elastokinematics as well as a more direct steering ratio ensure that the power and dynamism of the drivetrain reach the road with precision and minimal losses.

The design of the new S6 completes the picture: the sporty top model in this car line has the looks of an athlete, albeit in elegantly understated attire. There is an atmosphere of sporty elegance inside the car. Its lavish equipment gives the Audi S6 the status of a technology leader and makes it pre-eminent within its competitive field.