| Audi unveiled a potent new V10 FSI-powered
Audi S6 quattro at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit
this month
The 420PS ten-cylinder
engine on the Roadjet will power quattro four-wheel-driven
Saloon and Avant models |
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Developed with technical input from Lamborghini, the quattro four-wheel-driven,
420PS ten-cylinder Audi super saloon will be available to order in the
UK from April and will reach its first UK customers in July. Avant estate
versions combining exceptional performance with up to 1,660 litres of
carrying capacity will be launched simultaneously.
Using the Gallardo super car’s 5.0-litre unit, developed by Lamborghini
in conjunction with Audi, as its foundation, the new 5.2-litre V10 FSI
engine that appeared first in the new S8 quattro has been tuned to suit
the specific characteristics of the new A6 range flagship. Its adjusted
output of 420PS is delivered at 6,800rpm, and peak torque of 540Nm is
on tap between 3,000 and 4,000rpm, with over 500Nm available from just
2,500rpm right up to 5,500rpm.
Channelled through a six-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with software
revisions that enable even swifter gear changes than existing A6 models,
this exceptional output gives the new S6 quattro the potential to cover
the 0-62mph sprint in 5.2 seconds (Avant 5.3 seconds) and to reach a top
speed limited electronically to 155mph. It can also cover a respectable
21.0mpg on the combined cycle.
In the pursuit of performance that is more commonly associated with exotic
sports coupes, the fact that the S6 quattro is first and foremost an A6
was never forgotten. Bespoke features including Audi FSI direct petrol
injection and a balancing shaft ensure that although the engine note and
breathtaking response befit a super car, efficiency, smoothness and refinement
remain typically Audi.
Weighing in at a comparatively light 220kg, the new engine also has a
surprisingly modest impact on the 1,910kg overall weight of the S6 quattro,
contributing to an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 220PS per ton for
the saloon.
The first ever V10 from Audi is effectively harnessed by sports suspension
incorporating a high proportion of lightweight aluminium for maximum agility,
and unique settings that strike the best possible balance between ride
comfort and handling poise. The reassurance of smooth, unruffled acceleration
and outstanding grip in all conditions comes courtesy of the latest generation
quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system, featuring a standard torque
split of 40:60 (front / rear) that helps to optimise balance, adjustability
and steering precision.
In common with generations of sporting Audi models, the new S6 quattros
don’t flaunt their capabilities to the outside world. Subtle hints
include a unique front end design incorporating a restyled single frame
grille and an additional central air intake flanked by larger side intakes
containing distinctive LED daytime running strip lights. Front wheel arches
flared by 14mm, aluminium look door mirrors and larger body-coloured side
rubbing strips enhance the profile in conjunction with 19-inch 5-arm Wing
design alloy wheels. At the rear, an integrated boot or tailgate spoiler,
a built-in diffuser in a contrasting colour and four ellipsoidal exhaust
tailpipes subtly complete the look.
Inside, new Alcantara and leather-upholstered sports seats with integral
head restraints and pronounced lateral supports are a focal point, as
is the ‘S quattro’ three-spoke leather-trimmed sports steering
wheel with contrasting double seam stitching and aluminium look tiptronic
gear shift paddles.
The sporting theme is continued in the facia and doors, which are inlaid
with carbon fibre, and in the instrument panel, which features a new ‘Flexmetallic’
anthracite-coloured metallic covering and incorporates exclusive dials
embossed with the S6 logo. Also new within the instrument panel is an
upgraded Driver’s Information System (DIS) with a built-in digital
speedometer.
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