2020 Audi S6 & S7: America Gets ‘Em With 444hp 2.9 TFSI, Europe With 344hp V6 Diesel

Audi has unveiled the new S6, S6 Avant and S7 Sportback.

Starting under the hood, Europeans get an electrified 3.0-liter V6 TDI engine that produces 344 hp (257 kW / 349 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. It is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission which sends power to a quattro all-wheel drive system.

In terms of performance, the S6 TDI Sedan can accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.0 seconds. The S6 Avant and S7 Sportback can accomplish the same task in 5.1 seconds. While the latter models are a bit slower off the line, all three are limited to a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Those figures aren’t earth shattering, but the cars are pretty thrifty at the pump. According to Audi, fuel consumption ratings range from 6.2 L/100 km (37.9 mpg US / 45.5 mpg UK) to 6.5 L/100km (36.1 mpg US / 43.4 mpg UK). Likewise, CO2 emissions range from 164-171 g/km depending on the model and its tires / wheels.

In other markets – including Asia, the Middle East and the United States – the cars will be powered by a twin-turbo 2.9-liter TSFI V6 engine sourced from the RS5 Coupe. It produces 444 hp (331 kW / 450 PS) and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque.

Audi declined to say how fast the models are, but the RS5 Coupe can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.7 seconds. This likely means the larger S6 and S7 will be a tad slower.

Sticking with the performance theme, the cars are equipped with an S-specific power steering system and an S sport suspension which reduces the ride height by up to 0.4 inches (10 mm). Buyers will also find a high-performance braking system which has six-piston calipers and 15.7 inch (400 mm) discs up front as well as six-piston calipers and 13.8 inch (350 mm) discs in back.

As usual, an assortment of options will be available including a dynamic all-wheel steering system which can turn the rear wheels up to five degrees. Audi says this gives the cars more maneuverability at low speeds and greater directional stability at high speeds.

Customers will also be able to order an adaptive air suspension for the first time. It has three different modes and Audi describes it as a “comfort-oriented alternative” to the standard suspension.

A ceramic braking system will also be available and it includes six-piston calipers which grab onto discs measuring 15.7 inches (400 mm) up front and 14.6-inch (370 mm) out back. The larger rear discs aren’t the only advantage as the optional braking system weighs 19.8 lbs (9 kg) less than its steel counterpart.

On the styling front, the S6 gains a faux aluminum front splitter and a unique rear diffuser with tucks in between a four-tailpipe exhaust system. The S7 Sportback is a bit more extreme as it has larger air intakes and unique skid skirts. The models also have a revised grille, special mirror caps and standard 20-inch wheels.

The sporty updates continue in the cabin as drivers will find contrast stitching, brushed aluminum trim and a digital instrument cluster with S-specific displays. Other highlights include stainless steel pedals and illuminated sill plates with S logos.

Alcantara sport seats are standard, but customers can order custom contour seats with Valcona leather. Buyers can also purchase a flat-bottom steering wheel, fine grain ash trim and front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions.

The Audi S6, S6 Avant and S7 Sportback will celebrate their European launch this summer and German pricing starts at €76,500 for the sedan. The wagon begins at €79,000 while the hatchback goes for €82,750.

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