PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN AUDI S6 IS A THRILL OF A RIDE!

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

It’s sporty, stylish and luxurious. To top it all, the 2023 S6 also comes with the renowned quattro all-wheel drive that provides peace of mind in any road/weather condition. One cannot ask for a more graceful and energetic ride in the luxury midsize sedan segment than this Audi. Lest we forget, the S6 is performance-driven too!

The 2.9-liter bi-turbo V-6 engine cranks out 444 horsepower and 443 pounds-feet of torque. This allows the sprightly sedan to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, a major feat for a 4,486-pound vehicle. To fight turbo lag, it is equipped with 48-volt electric mild-hybrid capabilities, helpful during stop and go or while cruising the highway. An 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission results in a quiet and smooth drive train. An electronically controlled, adaptive air suspension system delivers admirable poise and stability. The potent brakes, which feature 15.8-inch front and 13.8-inch rear ventilated discs, have a firm pedal feel. They operate inside 21-inch V-spoke design wheels shod with 245/35 tires.

The aluminum-alloy structure-based S6 sports a massive double-slat single-frame grille with the familiar four Audi rings, which are flanked by matrix-design LED headlights. The rear gets four S-specific tail pipes and diffuser inlay in black chrome matte. The cabin is packed with all the luxury accoutrements expected in a ride of this class. A pleasing 12.3-inch digital instrument Cluster matches up well with dual black-gloss touch screens, a 10.1-inch upper display for navigation, radio and telephone controls while the 8.6-inch lower one is solely for climate control and vehicle settings. Offering a solid grip is the splendid and inimitable yacht-like shifter knob. Rear-seat passengers will enjoy abundant headroom and legroom. Our favorite was the red stitching on the Valcona black leather seats, a sight to behold! Also standard are a three-spoke power tilt/telescopic steering column, 12-way heated power front seats, rear manual sun shades, four-zone auto a/c, open/close power trunk, glossy piano black trim, Bang & Olufsen sound system with 16 speakers and a Audi Drive Select so the driver can pick dynamic, comfort, auto or individual modes.

In the event of a possible collision, Audi pre sense basic and front detects an emergency maneuver and prepares the vehicle and its occupants. Ten airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, electronic stability/traction control, rearview camera, lane departure warning, front/rear parking sensors, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

Undoubtedly, the performance-oriented S6 is a blast to drive. Plus, it’s got the looks, exterior and interior, that should appeal to any potential luxury midsize sedan buyer. We expect this Audi to continue to give the competition (Mercedes and BMW, are you listening?) sleepless nights.

S6 (PREMIUM PLUS)

Wheelbase: 115.3 inches

Length: 195 inches

Height: 56.9 inches

Width: 83.1 inches

Fuel capacity: 19.3 gallons

City: 19 mpg

Highway: 26 mpg

Base price: $73,700

Price as tested: $91,165

Web site: www.audiusa.com