New Models

After the A6 and A6 allroad, Meet the 444-Hp Audi S6

by Guillaume Rivard
All photos
Photo: Audi

The all-new 2020 Audi S6 is ready to take Canadian roads by storm. This midsize performance sedan features a new twin-turbocharged, 2.9-litre TFSI V6 engine developed specifically to produce a wider range of torque when combined with an electric compressor powered by a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

Want some numbers? Here you go: 444 horsepower, 443 pound-feet of torque and acceleration from 0-60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.4 seconds. In case you didn’t realize, it’s the same thing you get with the latest Audi RS models.

With a response time under 250 milliseconds and a maximum speed of 70,000 rpm, the aforementioned electric power compressor pre-empts turbo lag, enabling immediate responsiveness in any driving situation.

Photo: Audi

New for 2020, the Audi S6 comes standard with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that is well-suited for the low-end torque of the V6 engine, plus quattro all-wheel drive featuring active torque distribution to both axles. In normal driving, the system delivers 60 percent of the torque to the rear axle and 40 percent to the front. However, when needed, power can be redirected to the opposite axle, with up to 70 percent of torque to the front or up to 85 percent to the rear axle.

The Sport package adds a quattro sport differential and four-wheel steering for superior cornering agility and a more dynamic driving experience. A sport exhaust and red brake calipers are also included. This package can be combined with the available sport suspension that uses adaptive dampers so drivers can choose between a sporty or comfortable ride.

The exterior of the 2020 Audi S6 is differentiated by LED Matrix headlights as well as sporty design elements including S-model bumpers, a platinum double-slat Singleframe grille and aluminum exterior side mirrors. Additionally, the front splitter makes the car look wider, while four S-specific tailpipes and a diffuser inlay in matte black chrome give flair to the rear. Wheel choices include 20- and 21-inch designs wrapped in summer performance tires.

Photo: Audi

Inside, you’ll find a heated multifunction steering wheel with S emblem, diamond-stitched Valcona leather S sport seats and stainless steel doorsills with an illuminated S logo. The dual-screen MMI touch response infotainment system (10.1-inch upper, 8.6-inch lower) offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. And how can we not mention the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit with navigation or the available full-colour head-up display in front of the driver?

When it goes on sale sometime in the next few weeks, the 2020 Audi S6 will join the base A6 sedan (MSRP of $68,200) and the adventure-ready A6 allroad, which is a brand new addition. Pricing has yet to be announced.

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