2020 Audi S6 and S7 revealed

Audi has unveiled the S-version of their A6 sedan and Avant and A7 Sportback models and, in a step away from convention, the 2020 Audi S6 and Audi S7 will be made available with either a diesel or a petrol engine, depending on which region the model is destined for.

Diesel-loving European markets will be keeping the 257kW/700Nm 3-litre V6 turbo diesel for themselves while the rest of the world, Australia included, are expected to receive the 330kW/600Nm 2.9-litre V6 turbo petrol donk that is related to the RS4/RS5’s powerplant, which in itself is no bad thing.

Picture: 2020 Audi S6/S7 3-litre diesel TDI V6

Engines aside, both powertrain combinations are assisted by a mild hybrid system and an electric compressor, which are supported by the A6/A7’s 48V electrical system. As expected for a performance-fettled Audi, power will be channelled through Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.

According to Audi, the mild hybrid system features a small 10Ah lithium-ion battery pack that allows for start/stop operation from speeds as low as 22km/h and coast for up to 40 seconds with the engine off for the diesel powerplant.

As of the time of publication, Audi has yet to confirm the specifics when it pertains to the mild hybrid system’s capabilities when paired with the petrol engine, but we don’t expect the figures to vary too greatly.

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Likewise, Audi has only released performance figures for the diesel S6 and S7 with a quoted 0-100km/h time of 5sec for the S6 sedan, 5.1sec for the S6 Avant and S7 Sportback, and a limited top speed of 250km/h for all three. As of now Audi has yet to confirm the performance figures for its petrol-powered variants.

In keeping with its performance bent, the S6’s sports suspension drops the ride height of the sedan and Avant wagon by 20mm, while the S7’s suspension lowers it by 10mm, bringing both models to the same ride height. That being said, the S6 and S7 are said to be the first Audi S-models to feature an adaptive air suspension to retain a more comfort-oriented ride.

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The S6 and S7 can be specified with an all-wheel steering feature to improve low speed manoeuvrability and high speed cornering stability, a sport differential for the rear axle, and 400mm/370mm front/rear carbon ceramic disc brakes to replace the standard 400mm/350mm front/rear steel items.

According to Audi Australia, the S6 and S7 are expected to make its local debut early next year, with pricing and specifications to be confirmed closer to its launch.

“We have chosen the petrol-powered TFSI S6 and S7 over the diesel TDI variants for the Australian market based on the priority of the market and the local demand for petrol engines,” said Shaun Cleary, Audi Australia’s corporate communications manager.