The 2011 Audi S6 stands as a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess, blending high-performance capabilities with the luxury and refinement expected from the German automaker. Positioned as the sportier sibling to the Audi A6, the S6 Audi 2011 model year offers a compelling package for driving enthusiasts seeking a spirited experience without compromising on comfort or cutting-edge technology. This review delves into the key aspects of the 2011 Audi S6, exploring its interior, performance, safety features, and distinctive design elements.
The 2011 Audi S6 is designed for those who appreciate the thrill of driving and demand a vehicle that is both luxurious and practical for everyday use. Its unique styling cues and athletic stance set it apart from the standard A6 models, signaling its enhanced performance capabilities. Let’s explore what makes the s6 audi 2011 a standout in the premium performance sedan market.
Interior and Features: A Blend of Sport and Luxury
Stepping inside the 2011 Audi S6, you are immediately greeted by an interior that masterfully balances sporty aesthetics with luxurious comfort. The cabin showcases high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, creating an environment that is both sophisticated and driver-focused. Standard Valcona leather upholstery provides a plush and premium feel to the seats, while brushed aluminum trim accents lend a modern and sleek touch throughout the interior.
The cockpit of the s6 audi 2011 is designed with the driver in mind. A three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel, complete with paddle shifters, puts control at your fingertips. The instrument cluster is clearly laid out and easy to read, reinforcing the car’s performance-oriented nature.
Standard interior features of the s6 audi 2011 are generous and cater to both comfort and convenience. These include a 13-speaker Bose premium sound system, creating an immersive audio experience. Dual-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort for both driver and passengers. Heated seats are standard, adding to the luxury feel, especially in colder climates. Audi’s intuitive Multi Media Interface (MMI) system is also included, offering seamless control over navigation, audio, and various vehicle settings via a central dial and a high-resolution display screen.
For those seeking an even more elevated experience, optional upgrades were available for the 2011 Audi S6. A Bang & Olufsen sound system could be specified for audiophiles desiring top-tier sound quality. Ventilated front seats were also an option, providing enhanced comfort during warmer conditions.
Space and Practicality
Despite its performance focus, the 2011 Audi S6 remains practical and spacious. It comfortably accommodates five passengers, making it a versatile choice for families or those who frequently travel with passengers. The standard front sports seats are designed to provide excellent support and bolstering, ensuring comfort even during long journeys or spirited driving. Rear passengers benefit from ample legroom (36.9 inches) and headroom (37.8 inches), making the rear seats genuinely usable for adults.
Cargo Capacity
The s6 audi 2011 boasts a practical trunk space, offering approximately 15.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity. This is sufficient for everyday needs such as groceries, luggage for weekend trips, or other essentials. For larger items, the rear seats can be folded down in a 60/40 split configuration, expanding the cargo area and increasing versatility.
Thoughtful storage solutions are integrated throughout the cabin of the 2011 Audi S6, including a sizable glove box, a deep center console storage compartment, door pockets, and seatback storage pouches. These details highlight the S6’s ability to serve as both a luxury vehicle and a practical daily driver.
| Audi S6 | Jaguar XF Supercharged | Cadillac CTS-V | Mercedes-Benz E550 4MATIC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | |||
| 5 Seater | 5 Seater | 5 Seater | 5 Seater |
| Headroom in inches – Front | Rear | |||
| 37.5 | 37.8 | 37.1 | 37.6 | 38.8 | 37.2 | 37.9 | 38.2 |
| Legroom in inches – Front | Rear | |||
| 41.3 | 36.9 | 41.5 | 36.6 | 42.4 | 36.1 | 41.3 | 35.8 |
| Trunk/Cargo Space | |||
| 15.9 ft³ | 17.7 ft³ | 13.6 ft³ | 15.9 ft³ |
Materials and Color Options
The 2011 Audi S6 offered a selection of premium materials and color options to personalize the interior. Standard Valcona leather upholstery was available in classic black, elegant silver, and warm beige. These leather choices were complemented by high-quality trim materials such as brushed aluminum, sporty carbon fiber inlays, or sophisticated wood inlays, allowing buyers to tailor the cabin ambiance to their preferences. The careful material selection contributes to the upscale and refined feel of the s6 audi 2011 interior.
Technology and Infotainment Features
The 2011 Audi S6 is generously equipped with advanced technology and luxury features, enhancing both the driving experience and passenger comfort. Standard features included a multifunction steering wheel for easy access to vehicle controls, heated seats for added comfort, power-adjustable seats with lumbar support for optimal driving position, and the Audi MMI infotainment system. The MMI system provided integrated control over various vehicle functions and entertainment options. The 13-speaker Bose audio system delivered high-fidelity sound, and a rearview parking camera enhanced safety and convenience during parking maneuvers. Optional extras included Audi side assist, which enhances safety by monitoring blind spots, carbon fiber inlays for a sportier interior aesthetic, and the top-of-the-line Bang & Olufsen sound system for audiophiles.
Performance: V10 Power and Quattro Grip
The heart of the 2011 Audi S6 is its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine. This impressive powerplant produces 435 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, providing exhilarating performance and a distinctive engine note. Interestingly, this V10 engine shares its lineage with Lamborghini, showcasing the high-performance pedigree of the s6 audi 2011. However, in the S6, it is tuned for a more refined and everyday usable power delivery.
Paired with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, the V10 engine delivers effortless acceleration and strong mid-range power. Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard on the 2011 Audi S6, ensuring exceptional traction and grip in all weather conditions. This system enhances both performance and safety, providing confidence-inspiring handling. The sport-tuned suspension further sharpens the handling dynamics, contributing to agile cornering and overall stability.
The s6 audi 2011 is capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.1 seconds, placing it among the quickest sedans in its class at the time. Audi also equipped the S6 with large disc brakes, providing strong stopping power, and a well-weighted steering system that offers good feedback and enhances driver engagement. The combination of the V10 engine, Quattro AWD, and sport-tuned chassis makes the 2011 Audi S6 a genuinely engaging and rewarding car to drive.
Fuel Efficiency: A Trade-off for Performance
Given its high-performance V10 engine, fuel economy in the 2011 Audi S6 is understandably not its strongest suit. According to EPA estimates from FuelEconomy.gov, the s6 audi 2011 achieves 14 MPG in the city, 21 MPG on the highway, and a combined rating of 16 MPG. While these figures are not exceptional, they are typical for vehicles in this performance segment with large displacement engines. Prospective buyers of the s6 audi 2011 should factor in fuel costs as part of the ownership experience.
| 5.2-liter V10 Gas 6-Speed Auto AWD |
|---|
| Power | Torque |
| 435 hp | 398 lb-ft |
| 0-60 |
| 5.1 seconds |
| Top Speed |
| 155 mph |
| MPG – AWD |
| 16/14/21 |
Safety Features: Comprehensive Protection
The 2011 Audi S6 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants. Standard safety equipment includes multiple airbags strategically placed throughout the cabin, LATCH anchors for secure child seat installation, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), electronic stability control, traction control, hill hold assist, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Rear parking sensors and a rearview camera are also standard, enhancing safety during low-speed maneuvers and parking.
While neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) specifically tested the 2011 Audi S6, the A6 model upon which it is based received “Good” ratings in IIHS front and side crash tests. Audi’s reputation for robust build quality and engineering provides further reassurance regarding the safety of the s6 audi 2011.
| Base |
|---|
| Airbags |
| S |
| ABS |
| S |
| Traction Control |
| S |
| Stability Control |
| S |
| Parking Sensors |
| S |
S = Standard | O = Optional | N/A = Not Available
Reliability: Expected Maintenance for a Performance Model
Reliability ratings specifically for the 2011 Audi S6 from J.D. Power are not available. However, Audi generally has a reputation for producing well-engineered and precisely manufactured vehicles. Owning a high-performance model like the s6 audi 2011, particularly with its V10 engine and advanced Quattro drivetrain, typically entails higher maintenance costs compared to standard models. Regular and diligent maintenance is crucial to ensure the long-term reliability and optimal performance of the s6 audi 2011. Potential owners should be prepared for potentially higher maintenance demands associated with a performance vehicle of this caliber.
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Design: Understated Sportiness
The 2011 Audi S6 features a sleek and understated design, with subtle yet distinctive elements that differentiate it from the standard A6. The front fascia is more aggressive, incorporating a unique grille design, eye-catching LED daytime running lights, and xenon headlights. Quad exhaust outlets at the rear, subtly flared wheel arches, and discreet “S6” badging further hint at its performance capabilities without being overtly flashy.
Inside, sporty design cues continue, including aluminum pedals and “S6” logos tastefully embroidered on the seats. These elements reinforce the 2011 Audi S6‘s identity as a high-performance luxury sedan, blending sportiness with sophistication in its design.
Conclusion: A Unique Blend of Power and Luxury
The 2011 Audi S6 occupies a unique space in the luxury performance sedan market. Its Lamborghini-derived V10 engine delivers thrilling performance, while the Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional handling and all-weather capability. The meticulously crafted interior offers a luxurious and comfortable environment for both driver and passengers.
While fuel economy and potentially higher maintenance costs are factors to consider, the 2011 Audi S6‘s combination of power, luxury, and advanced technology makes it a compelling choice for automotive enthusiasts and discerning luxury car buyers. For those seeking a performance sedan with a distinctive V10 engine and refined German engineering, the s6 audi 2011 remains an enticing option.
Disclaimer: All information in this review was accurate at the time of original writing; recalls and updates may have occurred since then. For the most up-to-date recall information, please consult the NHTSA website.
