Audi is bringing the new S6, S7 and S8 to Frankfurt with an all new twin-turbo V8.
Audi's S cars have always occupied a space that few other automakers seem to bother with. It's a tick below BMW's M Division and Mercedes' AMG (Audi lets its RS cars tackle that heady company) and delivers subtly aggressive styling, effortless acceleration and dynamics that flatter yet are able to be ignored when you're not up for it. The next generation of S Audis looks set to carry on with this tradition, while bringing along a raft of improvements.
The Frankfurt Motor Show will see the reveal of not just one, but four new Audi S cars - the S6 (sedan and avant wagon), the S7, and every covert European wheelman's favorite car, the S8. At the heart of this new line-up is an all new 4.0 liter twin turbo TFSI V8 that will produce between 420 and 520 horsepower depending on the application.
The S6 and S7 get the 420 hp version and will be capable of 0-60 in 4.8 and 4.9 seconds. The S8 gets the full-fat 520 hp and will do 0-60 in 4.2 seconds, which is rather impressive for a car of its size. The S6 and S7 feature a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, while the S8 which will have an eight-speed Tiptronic driving all four wheels through Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
An optional sport differential for the S6 and S7 will add to the fun by actively distributing power between the rear wheels. A three-way adaptable air suspension system will provide improved handling and comfort depending on your mood and the dynamic steering will provide stability at high speeds and improved maneuverability at low speeds.
All cars will achieve improved efficiency through the extensive use of aluminum in the body panels and the chassis. Energy recuperation, engine stop-start technology and what Audi calls "cylinder on demand", which deactivates four cylinders when power is not needed, contribute to drastically improved fuel economy and emissions across the range.
New technologies feature prominently in all interiors. A Bang and Olufson stereo will be controllable, along with virtually ever other system, through the latest generation of Audi’s MMI, which will provide Bluetooth connectivity, Wi-Fi and WLAN technology for mobile devices.
Pricing is yet to be announced, but you can expect more on that front in a few weeks time in Frankfurt. Look for the S6, S7 and S8 on dealer lots early next year.
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