Audi has released the 2012 S6 and S6 Avant ahead of the public debut at the IAA 2011. The models are sports cars for everyday use, outfitted with the new a four-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine, which brings Audi’s downsizing strategy to the high-performance S-class.
The S6 and S6 Avant use the 420hp version of the new 4.0 TFSI. The twin-turbo V8 is linked to a seven-speed S-tronic and provides a constant 550Nm of torque from 1,400 to 5,300rpm. It accelerates the S6 from 0 to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and the S6 Avant in 4.9 seconds. With both models, the electronically governed top speed is 250km/h.
A number of technologies are added to cars, including the recuperation and start-stop systems as well as the new “cylinder on demand” cylinder management system. When the V8 deactivates four cylinders under part load, the Active Noise Cancellation system (ANC) is activated. Four microphones integrated into the headlining record the noise in the cabin, which is then analyzed by a computer. If the computer detects intrusive sound elements, it broadcasts an antiphase sound through the speakers of the sound system. This sound combines with the intrusive sound and largely cancels it out.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system uses a self-locking center differential and torque vectoring. If desired, Audi adds an optional sport differential, which actively distributes the power between the rear wheels. The two new S models come standard with the adaptive air suspension sport. The tuned air suspension with variable damping lowers the body by 10 millimeter. The disc brakes, internally ventilated front and rear, have matt black calipers with S6 logos. Audi offers carbon fiber-ceramic discs as an option.
The S6 and S6 Avant come standard with cast aluminum wheels in a five parallel-spoke design. The 8.5Jx19 wheels are shod with 255/40-series tires. Seven different 19 or 20 inch wheels, four of them from quattro GmbH, are available as options.
The single-frame grille sports aluminum applications and chromed horizontal double bars are the main differences with respect to the normal A6. Another chrome strip was also added to the front bumper. The exterior mirrors feature aluminum-look housings, and the side sills are distinctively shaped. The S6 sedan has a spoiler on the trunk; the Avant has a roof spoiler. With both models, the diffuser on the rear bumper is platinum gray with an aluminum-look offset edge. The four chrome-tipped tailpipes are elliptical.
The new Audi S6 and S6 Avant will be rolling into dealer showrooms in spring 2012. Pricing is not yet available at this stage.
