2021 Audi S6
2021 Audi S6 Review
- Attractive and refined interior
- Lots of high-tech features
- Impressively quick acceleration
- Smooth ride
- Infotainment interface can be challenging to use
- Short on in-cabin storage and trunk space
- 21-inch wheels with high-performance summer tires are now standard
- Standard equipment now includes Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel
- Minor changes to available advanced driver aids
- Based on the fifth A6 generation introduced for 2019
To create its S6 midsize luxury sport sedan, Audi simply takes its A6 and adds more performance via a more powerful turbocharged V6 engine, sticky tires and a suspension tuned for better handling. The regular A6 comes with either a 261-horsepower four-cylinder engine or a 335-hp V6, but the S6's standard V6 trumps both with a muscular 444 hp. Pleasingly, Audi has made sure that no luxury has been lost with that extra performance, and the S6 has all the premium hallmarks that make the standard A6 sedan so comfortable.
As you'd expect, the strongest competition for the S6 comes from other German manufacturers. BMW offers its potent M550i, while Mercedes-Benz matches the sporty AMG E 53 sedan against the Audi. For something similar but different, you could also check out Tesla's Model S. It offers even more performance plus the efficiencies of a fully electric drivetrain. Does the S6 hit your sweet spot for a luxury sport sedan? Read our Expert Rating below for an in-depth look at the strengths and weaknesses of the Audi S6.
2021 Audi S6 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which S6 does Edmunds recommend?
Audi S6 models
The Audi S6 is a performance-oriented midsize luxury sedan based on the more sedate A6. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 (444 horsepower, 443 lb-ft of torque). Also standard are an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Two trims are available: the well-appointed Premium Plus and the loaded Prestige. Feature highlights include:
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $75,445
- MPG & Fuel
- 18 City / 28 Hwy / 22 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.3 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 444 hp
- Torque: 443 lb-ft
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 195.0 in. / Height: 56.9 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 83.1 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 74.3 in.
- Curb Weight: 4486 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 13.7 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite S6 safety features:
- Audi Pre Sense Basic and Front
- Warns of an impending front collision and automatically applies the brakes if you don't.
- Audi Side Assist
- Notifies you if there's a car in your blind spot and alerts you if you activate the turn signal.
- Audi Active Lane Assist
- Steers the S6 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker.
Audi S6 vs. the competition
2021 Audi S6
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Audi S6 vs. Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Mercedes-Benz offers a wide variety of E-Class sedans, but the best foil for the Audi S6 is the AMG E 53. Like the S6, it's powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and comes standard with all-wheel drive. Both sedans offer some of the most cutting-edge technology in the class, pack strong performance, and are built to a very high quality.
Audi S6 vs. BMW 5 Series
The BMW 5 Series is another top competitor. From a raw horsepower perspective, the S6 slots between the six-cylinder 540i and the V8-powered M550i. However, the Audi's estimated 0-60 mph time is closer to the 540i's, yet it costs almost as much as the M550i. The Audi has a roomier cabin and better technology, but you pay for them. If you want to learn more about a 540i of this generation, you can read our long-term road test.
Audi S6 vs. Tesla Model S
Performance has always been a strong suit of the Model S, but it makes a stronger case for itself than ever before thanks to a steady stream of updates over the years as well as ever-improving build quality. It's quick, efficient and quiet. The S6, for its part, offers more traditional luxury appointments than the Tesla as well as better smartphone connectivity.
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FAQ
Is the Audi S6 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Audi S6?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi S6:
- 21-inch wheels with high-performance summer tires are now standard
- Standard equipment now includes Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel
- Minor changes to available advanced driver aids
- Based on the fifth A6 generation introduced for 2019
Is the Audi S6 reliable?
Is the 2021 Audi S6 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi S6?
The least-expensive 2021 Audi S6 is the 2021 Audi S6 Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (2.9L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $74,400.
Other versions include:
- Premium Plus 4dr Sedan AWD (2.9L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $74,400
- Prestige 4dr Sedan AWD (2.9L 6cyl Twincharger gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $81,100
