World Debut
Expect Audi’s S middleweight to have its official world launch at Detroit, though don’t be surprised if the car turns up at the Los Angeles auto show one week earlier. Audi and sister brand Volkswagen have both been known to make such moves in the past.
Whether or not the S6 will show as sedan, Avant or both remains to be seen. Audi has spread the unveiling of its S and RS cars previously. The RS 4 sedan has been around since March, while an RS 4 Avant could debut up to a year later. Digitally created photos of both S6 sedan and Avant have been created for this article, though there’s not yet been a clear indication on what to expect.
The S6, in its most recent form, was sold as both sedan and Avant in Europe, though it was Avant-only in the United States. While a US launch for the S6 means it’s more than likely coming stateside, specific information on which bodystyles are to be expected are believed to be forthcoming in Audi’s Los Angeles or Detroit presentation.
Packaging
From the outside, it can be assumed that the S6 will follow a similar formula set by the S4 and S8. The attached photos depict a standard S-line body kit already shown for the A6, though modified to accept S design cues such as larger crosshatch grille and quad exhaust tips. This also follows in line with early prototypes seen testing at Germany’s Nurburgring.
Audi has a new S-car wheel that is strongly reminiscent of the wheels on the Le Mans concept with some subtle changes that make the design more attuned for road car use. Namely, they use standard lug attachment with covers that hide the fasteners from view. This handsome new split-spoke design has been confirmed in photos of the S4 Cabriolet and the S8, and it is expected on the rest of the S-range by the end of next year… including the S6.
The final exterior detail to be expected is an engine badge just below the Euro side repeater. On the S4, the badge reads “V8”, though we expect the one on the S6 to read “V10” as it does on the S8.
Hardware and Equipment
All indications point to a version of the corporate V10 shoehorned under the hood of the new S6. If so, this is the same engine that will power the S8, though it will not be as highly tuned. Expect a figure of about 420 bhp for the S6, compared to the S8’s 450 bhp. A six-speed Tiptronic transmission will probably be standard issue for now.
Also shared kit with the S8 is the adaptive air suspension and shorter ratio steering rack. Each element should add to the sporting feel of the S6, giving it an edgier ride than run-of-the-mill A6 sedan and Avant models.
What to Watch For
As detailed above, the S6 will most likely see its debut at either or both the Detroit or Los Angeles Auto Shows. Audi could release photos and details prior to those events, both of which happen in early January. Expect live coverage from both Los Angeles and Detroit in these pages, as well as any preview Audi might release before that time.
Source: Fourtitude
Pics. These aren't real they are photochopped.