2021 Audi S6

header-image
Rating8.1

Ranked #17 in 

Midsize Sedan
Write Review
$74,400 - $81,100
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on October 31, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

MHEV Turbocharged V-6 is excellent

Limited cargo space

21-inch wheels with summer tires, Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display, and carbon-fiber trim are all standard now.

Standard Quattro AWD system

Lack traditional driving experience

Premium Plus model's optional Executive package now gets adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist.

Excellent handling and driving dynamics

Specs & Features

$74,400

price

444 hp

horsepower

443 lb.-ft.

torque

TBD

transmission

2.9L 6cyl AWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2021 Audi S6 is the high-performance version of the Audi A6. Audi has recently upgraded it to the fifth generation S6 introduced for the 2019 model year. The V-8 engine was replaced with a 444 hp V-6 that offers better performance and economy with its mild hybrid system. Also, it features a sporty exterior design that suits its sports sedan nameplate, and our folks at "HotCars" like to call it the subtle super sleeper sedan for the sheer amount of performance on offer. Check out their video below for more a detailed video review. 

Buying Advice

The base Premium Plus trim is the best value trim at $74,400. You can avail yourself of top-notch features from the optional packages as needed. In terms of performance and comfort, both trims are identical. The Prestige trim offers standard features but costs an extra $7,000. Instead, you can get the Premium Plus and add optional packages to better equip the luxury sports sedan. The Premium Plus trim gets impressive features as standards such as Audi virtual cockpit, interior lighting package, comfort package, and four-zone automatic air conditioner.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The new Audi S6 is available in two trim levels. The base Premium Plus trim is offered at MSRP $74,400 and the top of the line Prestige trim will cost $81,100. Both trims are available with a standard Audi Quattro AWD system. You have up to 37 packages and options as add-ons. The 2021 S6 will compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53, BMW M550i, and the Maserati Ghibli S.

Features

The lineup of the 2021 Audi S6 starts with the base Premium Plus trim with a price of $74,400. With numerous customization options and features, you can load your car upto the brim. While the top-end Prestige trim costs $81,100, you get most of the features as standard. Both the trims offer similar mechanicals and performance.

Trims 

Premium Plus

Prestige

MSRP

$74,400

$81,100

Key Features

Audi virtual cockpit

Adds features to the Premium Plus trim:

 

Matrix design headlamps

Heads up display

 

Platinum slat single frame grille

21-inch 5 double-spoke V wheels

 

Four-zone automatic air-conditioning

HD matrix design headlamps with animation

 

Bang and Olufsen 3D premium speakers

Adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist

Which trim should you buy?

The base Premium Plus trim is the best value trim at $74,400. You can avail yourself of top-notch features from the optional packages as needed. In terms of performance and comfort, both trims are identical. The Prestige trim offers standard features but costs an extra $7,000. Instead, you can get the Premium Plus and add optional packages to better equip the luxury sports sedan. The Premium Plus trim gets impressive features as standards such as Audi virtual cockpit, interior lighting package, comfort package, and four-zone automatic air conditioner.

Fuel Economy
7.5/10

The mild-hybrid powertrain of the Audi S6 doesn't affect the performance. It can both go fast and deliver a fantastic economy. It offers 18 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on the highway, and a combined 22 MPG. With its 19.3 gallon tank, you can avail yourself of a maximum range of up to 540 miles on the highway.

Models

2021 Audi S6

2021 Mercedes AMG E 53

2021 BMW M550i

2021 Maserati Ghibli S

MPG (City)

18

22

17

17

MPG (Highway)

28

29

25

25

MPG (Combined)

22

25

20

20

Fuel Capacity (Gallons)

19.3

21.1

18.0

21.1

Range (City/ Highway/ Combined) (miles)

347.4/540.4/ 424.6

464.2/611.9/ 527.5

306/450/360

358.7/527.5/422

The S6 offers a much better fuel economy than the BMW M550i and the Maserati Ghibli S do with their V8 engines. The Mercedes AMG E 53 is a tough contender, and with its EQ boost, it wins over segment-leading 25MPG combined. The S6 follows right behind with excellent efficiency.

Interior
9.3/10

No doubt, Audi cars have the most happening interiors. The luxurious, as well as spacious cabin on the 2021 S6, is wrapped in premium leather with carbon fiber, metal-look, and piano black accents. It also comes with interior ambient lighting making the interior more lively. The dashboard is attractive as well with this premium carbon fiber inlays. The simple-looking sports steering wheel is wrapped in leather and is paired with mounted controls and paddle shifters. You also get both metal-look and leather accents on the center console.

Comfort is the main concern in the Audi S6. That's why you get Valcona leather seat trim with diamond stitching. The front sports seats have 8-way power adjustment as standard which can be upgraded to 12-way adjustments and heating function with the optional S sport package. The rear bench seat is a 40-20-40 split-bench seat with a foldable seatback. Comfort features include Audi navigation plus, four-zone automatic air-conditioning with separate rear controls, memory settings for steering and door mirrors, power-adjustable heated steering wheel, 12V DC power outlets, and center armrests with storage in both rows.

Models

2021 Audi S6

2021 Mercedes AMG E 53

2021 BMW M550i

2021 Maserati Ghibli S

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg, in inches)

38.0/57.8/41.6

37.9/57.8/41.7

38.8/58.7/41.4

38.8/57.8/37.7

Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg, in inches)

38.1/56.5/37.4

37.6/57.1/36.2

37.5/55.9/36.5

38.8/56.5/33.2

Cargo Capacity (cubic feet)

13.7

13.1

14.0

17.7

The Audi S6 is similar in size to its rivals. Yet the cabin is spacious where you have best in the class front row seating comfort with heated seatbacks, lumbar, and bolster support. Likewise, the rear seat is quite comfortable with its massive legroom. With just 13.7 cubic feet of cargo area, you have limited cargo space. Space is better than the AMG E53 and slightly smaller than the M550i. On the other hand, the Ghibli S has the biggest trunk. Standout Interior features:

  • Leather upholstery
  • Interior lighting package
  • Carbon fiber inlays
  • Leather sports steering wheel
  • 12-way power seat adjustments
  • Foldable rear seatback
  • Four-zone automatic climate control
  • Audi Navigation plus

What's there to keep you entertained? 

Inside the 2021 S6, there's a one-of-a-kind dual-display infotainment setup. The dual-screen setup consists of a 10.1 infotainment screen powered by Audi MMI and the lower 8.6-inch screen is for climate control and seating comfort. Both the screens are conveniently placed within the reach of the driver. The intuitive infotainment can be operated through voice, touch, and even handwriting. You also have connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.

There's Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well. You have entertainment features such as the SiriusXM radio subscription with a 3-month trial and an Audi Connect plus internet access for up to 6 months. To boom up the cabin, you have 16 premium speakers set up by Bang and Olufsen with surround sound. The gauge cluster gets a 12.3-inch all-digital display, known as the Audi virtual cockpit. It allows you to choose from different speedometer styles to stay connected to the drive. Standout Infotainment features:

  • Dual infotainment display
  • Audi MMI system
  • Haptic feedback
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Amazon Alexa
  • Bluetooth and USB connectivity
  • SiriusXM radio subscription
  • Audi Connect plus internet connectivity
  • Bang and Olufsen premium speaker system

Exterior
9.3/10

The 2021 Audi S6 got serious upgrades as compared to the previous generation. The visuals aren't that distinctive, still, the design is uplifted with new body lines, aerodynamics, and the available black optic and S sport package. The new S6 is comparatively bigger in terms of length and height, yet looks small with its sport sedan image. The center of attraction is the platinum slat grille. You have new LED matrix design headlamps with DRL and animation. 

The chrome accents are available with bumpers and side windows. The rear fascia is updated with sleeker LED matrix tail lamps, a lip spoiler, and quad chrome tip exhausts. The HD matrix lights are optional with the Prestige package. The S6 gets massive 20-inch 5 double-spoke V design wheels. There are 21-inch wheels standard with the Prestige trim. The optic package offers 21-inch 5 twin-arm titanium matte wheels with summer tires and black body accents. The S sport package adds red brake calipers and a sport exhaust that looks good and roars even better.

Models

2021 Audi S6

2021 Mercedes AMG E 53

2021 BMW M550i

2021 Maserati Ghibli S

Curb weight (lbs)

4,486

4,341

4,275

3,990

Length (inches)

195.0

195.8

195.2

195.7

Width (inches)

74.3

72.9

73.5

76.6

Height (inches)

56.9

57.0

58.4

57.5

Ground clearance (inches)

4.6

4.5

5.2

4.5

Wheelbase (inches)

115.3

115.7

117.1

118.0

The Audi S6 has dropped a good amount of weight, still, it is the heaviest sedan as compared with the rivals. Even with the increase in length and height, the Audi S6 is the smallest sedan in the lot. Although it is the widest sedan in its range. The 4.6-inch ground clearance isn't the best on the S6. However, the adaptive steel suspension works fine with the Quattro AWD system. The 115.3-inch wheelbase is the smallest in the segment, thus we have a poor cornering ability. Standout Exterior features:

  • LED matrix design headlamps
  • Platinum slat grille
  • Quad exhausts
  • 21-inch aluminum wheels
  • S sport package
  • Black optic package

Safety
7.0/10

The 2021 S6 sits on the Volkswagen group C platform. With a reduced weight, the S6 now offers better structural integrity and strength. The available safety features on the Audi S6 are countless. Most of the features are provided to assist the driver on the road. The standard safety features of the S6 include Audi pre-sense basic and front, lane departure warning, Audi adaptive cruise assists with traffic jam assist, top view 360-degree virtual view camera, and a night vision camera. Standout safety features of the 2021 Audi S6:

  • Audi pre sense basic and front
  • Audi adaptive cruise assist with traffic jam assist
  • Audi lane assist with emergency assist
  • Lane departure warning
  • Night vision camera
  • Audi turn assist
  • Audi parking system plus

Competition
6.0/10

2021 Audi S6 vs 2021 Mercedes AMG E 53

With similar power output, pricing, and performance figures, the Mercedes-Benz AMG E 53 takes down the S6 with its best-in-class economy as well. Surprisingly, the 2021 S6 can beat the AMG E53 in terms of comfort and convenience as it makes good use of technology. Hence, both cars have unique strengths.

2021 Audi S6 vs 2021 BMW M550i

The BMW M550i is way ahead in the segment with its 523 hp V-8 engine. It costs nearly the same and offers a much greater value than the S6. With its unmatched performance and handling, the M550i is a luxury barge as well. On the other hand, the 2021 S6 makes more sense with its MHEV powertrain and best-in-class cabin space.

2021 Audi S6 vs 2021 Maserati Ghibli S

The Maserati Ghibli S is all about luxurious comfort. It has a beautiful cabin. The S6 takes over in terms of cabin space, onboard technology, and performance. Moreover, the overall package of the S6 is quite impressive for its price. The Ghibli S showcases Italian craftsmanship whereas the 2021 S6 is a German precision vehicle.

Final Verdict

The Audi S6 is getting better with each generation. The performance-oriented S6 now offers a more practical approach than ever. Against its rivals, the S6 is the clear choice in its segment, apart from the BMW M550i. The S6 is more feasible and appealing with its spacious cabin, advanced safety, interactive infotainment, and decent fuel economy. The value addition packages will make your first interaction with the S6 special as you have lots of personalization options.

Trims

    Premium Plus
    $74,400 onwards
    • 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen display
    • 21-Inch wheels
    • Adaptive air suspension
    • Heated front sport seats
    • Premium leather upholstery
    • Sunroof
    Prestige
    $81,100 onwards
    • Air fragrance system
    • Blind-Spot monitoring
    • Head-Up display
    • Red brake calipers
    • Soft-Closing doors

Compare to similar cars

Price

$74,400- $81,100

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

8.11

Horsepower

444 hp

Torque

443 lb.-ft.

Capacity

5

Read Review

$103,500

Gasoline

8.04

600 hp @ 6000 rpm

553 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

5

Read Review

$74,390- $109,890

Gasoline

8.37

345 hp @ 5500 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

$76,000- $82,850

Gasoline

7.82

416 hp @ 6000 rpm

442 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$140,600- $161,900

Gasoline

7.95

577 hp @ 5500 rpm

590 lb.-ft. @ 2350 rpm

4

Read Review

$114,000

Gasoline

8.59

591 hp @ 6000 rpm

590 lb.-ft. @ 2050 rpm

-

Read Review

$76,800

Gasoline

8.01

523 hp @ 5500 rpm

553 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

5

Read Review

$36,995- $47,795

Gasoline

8.43

-

-

5

Read Review

$70,300- $72,800

Gasoline

7.48

362 hp @ 5500 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm

5

Read Review

$107,500- $112,450

Gasoline

8.73

603 hp @ 5750 rpm

627 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    2021 Audi S6

    Ranked #8

    4.4 sec12.7 sec155 mph
    2021 BMW M5

    Ranked #1

    2.8 sec10.9 sec163 mph
    3 sec--
    3.41 sec--
    3.6 sec12.3 sec130 mph
    3.65 sec12.3 sec190 mph

    2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      2021 Audi S6

      Ranked #4

      18 mpg28 mpg22 mpg19.3 gal.347.4/540.4 mi.
      23 mpg30 mpg26 mpg21.1 gal.485.3/633 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg21.1 gal.464.2/611.9 mi.
      21 mpg26 mpg23 mpg21.1 gal.443.1/548.6 mi.
      18 mpg29 mpg22 mpg21.7 gal.390.6/629.3 mi.
      20 mpg25 mpg22 mpg21.1 gal.422/527.5 mi.

      2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2021 Audi S6

        Ranked #10

        195 in.74.3 in.56.9 in.-115.3 in.
        206.1 in.74.8 in.57.1 in.6.6 in.123 in.
        199.2 in.81.5 in.56.8 in.4.6 in.116.2 in.
        199.2 in.81.5 in.57.3 in.4.6 in.116.2 in.
        199.2 in.76.9 in.57.3 in.4.6 in.116.2 in.
        199.1 in.74.6 in.56 in.4.7 in.115.7 in.

        2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          2021 Audi S6

          Ranked #2

          13.7 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.74.7 cu.ft.
          14 cu.ft.98.8 cu.ft.89.7 cu.ft.
          2021 BMW M5

          Ranked #3

          14 cu.ft.98.8 cu.ft.71.3 cu.ft.
          11.9 cu.ft.108.3 cu.ft.68.8 cu.ft.
          12.7 cu.ft.80.3 cu.ft.12.7 cu.ft.
          11.9 cu.ft.-27.1 cu.ft.

          2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            2021 Audi S6

            Ranked #1

            74.7 cu.ft.13.7 cu.ft.74.7 cu.ft.76 ft.
            12.7 cu.ft.12.7 cu.ft.12.7 cu.ft.-
            68.8 cu.ft.11.9 cu.ft.68.8 cu.ft.-
            15.4 cu.ft.7.1 cu.ft.7.1 cu.ft.-
            -13.1 cu.ft.--
            -17.7 cu.ft.--

            2021 Audi S6 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              2021 Audi S6

              Ranked #1

              1102 lbs.4486 lbs.
              -4497 lbs.
              -4707 lbs.
              -3798 lbs.
              928 lbs.4275 lbs.
              1389 lbs.4134 lbs.

              Top Audi Cars

              2021 Audi RS 6 Avant

              Horsepower : 591 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.5 sec

              #1

              2021 Audi RS 7

              Horsepower : 591 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3 sec

              #2

              2021 Audi RS Q8

              Horsepower : 591 hp

              MPG Combined : 15 mpg

              0-60 : 3.4 sec

              #3

              2021 Audi R8

              Horsepower : 532 hp @ 4475 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 3.6 sec

              #4

              2021 Audi SQ7

              Horsepower : 500 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 4.3 sec

              #5

              2021 Audi SQ8

              Horsepower : 500 hp

              MPG Combined : 17 mpg

              0-60 : 4.3 sec

              #6

              2021 Audi S8

              Horsepower : 453 hp @ 5500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 18 mpg

              0-60 : 3.8 sec

              #7

              2021 Audi RS 5

              Horsepower : 444 hp @ 5700 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 3.7 sec

              #8

              2021 Audi S7

              Horsepower : 444 hp

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 4.5 sec

              #9

              2021 Audi S6

              Horsepower : 444 hp

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 4.4 sec

              #10