The Audi S6 is the performance version of the mid-size A6 sedan, offering more power and sportier handling than the standard car. Where other performance sedans can be flashy and loud, bragging about their performance to everyone, the S6 is more sedate in its appearance, preferring to walk softly and carry a big stick (or engine in this case). This makes it a great choice for those looking for incognito speed and reserved style.
There are no significant changes to the S6 for 2018.
The Audi S6 is powered by a beast of an engine, a 4.0-liter supercharged V8 that puts out 450 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. When that power is combined with Quattro all-wheel drive and Audi’s fantastic DSG gearbox (a fast-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission), the S6 can hit 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds according to Audi, although many have noted in practice it will actually manage the sprint in less than four seconds, which is supercar fast.
It’s not just fast in a straight line either. The sport suspension and all-wheel drive allow the S6 to maintain a supreme amount of grip in the corners. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system also works great in less-than ideal conditions, such as rain and snow.
Inside, the S6 is well equipped and has a luxurious, yet sporty interior. Audis are typically staid in their design, and the S6 is no exception. It’s also important to note that the S6 is getting a bit long in the tooth at this point, so the infotainment system can feel dated, especially compared with the Virtual Cockpit systems on newer Audi models like the S3, S4, and TT.
The S6 starts as the $72,875 (including a $975 destination fee) Premium Plus and is equipped to a degree befitting of that price tag. It comes standard with LED headlights, diamond-stitched leather seats, a sport steering wheel, heated seats, navigation and some pre-crash active safety features. A $2,500 Prestige Package builds on this equipment list with a heads-up display, LED interior lighting, a parking assist system with a 360-degree camera, window sunshades, and a power trunk.
Regardless of whether you go with the base S6 or the Prestige Package, option packages include the $500 Cold Weather Package that adds heat to the rear seats and steering wheel, the $2,000 Driver Assistance Package with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, and the $3,900 S Sport Package that adds dynamic steering, a sport rear differential, and a sport exhaust. There’s also the $1,850 Comfort Seating Package, which adds ventilated and massaging front seats.
Audi also has two appearance packages, the $750 20” Black Optic Package that adds unique wheels and high-gloss external black trim, and the $1,250 Arras Red Audi Design Selection which has carbon twill red inlays on the interior trim. There’s also the option to add an black Alcantara headliner for $3,000, and you can get Audi to paint your car a special color for $3,900.
The differences between the base Premium Plus and the Prestige are minor in quantity and in price, so you’re probably best off with the base trim. The S Sport Package does add mechanical improvements to take this sporty sedan to the next level, so it may be worth the premium. We’d also be interested in the Comfort Seating Package for the updated seats. On the other hand, you may want to hold off on buying an S6 – a new version is likely right around the corner.
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