car audi review and genesis

2014 Audi S6

The Audi S6 is the only Volkswagen Group model so far to use the revolutionary new twin-turbo V-8 paired with the firm’s twin-clutch transmission. The technical merits of the design allow the S6 to beat the remarkable sub-4-second sprint stats achieved by the larger S8 despite packing 100 fewer horsepower.

The transition from the luxury A6 to the S6 is a comprehensive redesign of nearly all the car’s key mechanical systems and components. The exterior style barely moves forward from the A6 S-line but does include a number of S6-exclusive elements, like the giant quad exhaust system, and deeper fascias and bumpers.

The S6 raises the bar on every aspect of the standard A6’s performance. It also changes the car’s competitive set from BMW 535i and Mercedes E350 models up to the Porsche Panamera and the new E63 AMG 4Matic. For 2014, the S6 has some reshuffled option packages and a new Black Optics trim pack to increase car’s road presence.

The Porsche Panamera is the S6’s biggest competitive threat for buyer attention. Does the Audi have the chops to dethrone the ranking AWD performance sedan king?