Audi S6 is set to return with a gasoline-powered model after Audi abandoned its short-lived vehicle renaming strategy. The redesigned performance sedan has now been spotted without camouflage at the Nürburgring, signaling that its official debut could be close.
Gas-Powered Audi S6 Returns After Naming Strategy Reversal
During Audi’s now-abandoned renaming plan, the company introduced the first all-electric S6, known as the S6 Sportback e-tron. That model was not intended to replace the gasoline-powered S6.
Under the original plan, the combustion-powered version would have been renamed the S7, just as the gasoline-powered S4 became the S5. However, Audi later scrapped the naming strategy. While the change came too late for the A4 and A5, it allowed the A6 lineup to retain its name, clearing the way for the return of the gas-powered S6.
Production Design Revealed at the Nürburgring
The new Audi S6 was spotted undisguised by CarspotterJeroen during testing at the Nürburgring. With camouflage now removed, the model appears to be approaching its official world premiere, which could arrive within weeks or even days.
The redesigned sedan maintains the understated appearance traditionally associated with the S6. More aggressive styling is expected to remain exclusive to the RS 6.
From the front, the S6 closely resembles an A6 equipped with the S Line package. The primary visual differences are silver accents on the grille and matching silver trim surrounding the corner air ducts.
At the rear, quad exhaust outlets distinguish the S6 from the standard A6, which features dual trapezoidal exhaust tips. An S6 Avant version is also expected.
Handling Appears to Stay True to the S6 Formula
Footage of the prototype shows the new S6 maintaining its composure through corners without noticeable understeer. The car also appears to rotate slightly on corner exit, displaying behavior similar to recent S5 models.
The driving characteristics suggest the sedan is equipped with a Torsen Quattro all-wheel-drive system. It is also expected to feature the Sport Differential and four-wheel steering.
Boosted V6 Expected to Power the New Model
The previous-generation Audi S6 was offered with different powertrains depending on the market. Most regions received a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6, while the European version was available exclusively with a higher-output 3.0-liter TDI diesel engine that produced more than 100 horsepower less than the gasoline-powered model.
Based on the sound of the prototype, the next-generation S6 is expected to continue using a turbocharged V6 engine. It is likely to feature an updated version of the 2.9-liter V6 with mild-hybrid technology, with expected output exceeding 444 horsepower.
There is also a strong possibility that the new Audi S6 will be offered exclusively with a gasoline engine, as Europe continues moving away from diesel-powered performance models.
The undisguised appearance of the new Audi S6 suggests the performance sedan is nearing its official introduction, marking the return of a gasoline-powered model following Audi’s decision to reverse its renaming strategy.
