2011 Audi S6

LED Daytime Running Lights
Audi was among the first to use LEDs as a styling element. On the S6, low-set bright white LED daytime running lights are grouped in two rows of five to represent the V10 engine within. They give the S6 one of the most distinctive faces on the road.

V10 Engine
We like the 5.2-liter V10's smooth and willing power delivery, as well as the unique sounds it makes. Mercedes gets as much power with more brute force out of a V8, but the S6's V10 is a conversation starter.

Audi is known for modern, stylish, high-quality interiors and the S6 is no exception. The standard wood trim is attractive and the available carbon fiber is both good-looking and appropriate for a car with the S6's sporty intentions. The same goes for the sport bucket seats, which are supportive during hard cornering. Audi's standard MMI central control system – which handles the entertainment, communication, navigation and climate controls – is among the more intuitive of these systems on the market today, but it can complicate some controls and take a little time to learn.

Versus the more subtle A6, the 2011 Audi S6 has some slightly more aggressive styling elements. The bolder front end is highlighted by a uniquely-styled grille and very distinctive LED daytime running lights placed in the lower air intakes. The LEDs also act as fog lights. Along the sides, the S6 features V10 badges, aluminum-look mirrors and unique 19-inch wheels. At the rear, the S6 has a tastefully-integrated rear spoiler and quad exhaust tips.

The mid-size S6 is powered by a slightly less-powerful version of the direct-injected V10 engine found in the cars' corporate cousin, the Lamborghini Gallardo. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability, the 2011 Audi S6 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and top out at an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph. The S6 also comes standard with Audi's 40/60 rear-biased quattro all-wheel drive system, along with more aggressive suspension tuning, bigger brakes and a more direct steering ratio than the A6.

5.2-liter V10
435 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
398 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3000-4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/21

The 2011 Audi S6's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) begins around $78,000 with both the gas-guzzler tax and destination charge included. The Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com reflects real-world transaction prices nearly equal to the sticker price, probably due to a limited supply. BMW M5 pricing starts at just over $85,000 and ranges to more than $100,000, with the Mercedes-Benz E63 slightly above that range. As for resale value, we expect the S6 to command a better percentage than the BMW but not do as well as the Mercedes.

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