The shift towards green motoring means the likes of the high capacity, normally aspirated engines like the 5.2-litre V10 found in the 'old' S6 and the 5.0-litre V10 in the 'old' M5 will probably never see production again.

The good news is that the new breed of turbocharged V8s seen in the new S6 (and BMW M5) are more efficient and provide more useable power in nearly every situation.

Exterior

Not much clues here to its potential for dismissing hot hatches and pseudo sport cars. The S6 is distinguished from lesser A6s by a platinum-colored grill, horizontal slats in the front air intakes, aluminum coloured mirrors, and a rear lip spoiler.


Oh, and four exhaust outlets warn other road users not to mess with it. Our test car also had optional LED headlamps that provide an additional hint that this no ordinary A6.

The 20-inch five-spoke alloys are wrapped by sticky 255/35R20 Pirelli P-zero rubber and allow gawkers to view the six-pot front/four-pot rear brake calipers with S6 logo. Yes, understated pundits will no doubt be able to spot the difference.


The A6 is a relatively good looking car and the slight changes to the exterior all combine to give it a sportier look without being too brash.