Verdict
B
← Audi S6 · 2013-present · C7/C8
Audi S6 C7 / C8 (2013-present)
Turbo V8 (C7) then turbo V6 mild-hybrid (C8). Faster, more efficient, less character than the V10.
BHP
420-444 bhp
0–60
4.4 s
Top speed
155 mph
MPG
21.0 mpg
Used
$22,000-$60,000
The C7 (2013-2018) replaced the V10 with a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 making 420 hp and 406 lb-ft — Audi's first turbocharged S6 engine. Seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch, quattro AWD. 0-60 in 4.4 seconds, faster than the V10 despite less power. The C8 (2020-present) made the bigger leap: 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 with 48-volt mild-hybrid integration, making 444 hp and 442 lb-ft. Eight-speed Tiptronic. The C8 is more efficient (21 mpg combined), more powerful, and significantly lighter than the C7. Both generations are excellent fast sedans; both lack the Lamborghini V10's character. Reception has been consistent: capable but lacking the obvious BMW M5's emotion or Mercedes-AMG E63's drama.
Strengths
- C7 4.0 TT V8 has serious low-end torque
- C8 2.9 TT V6 + 48V mild hybrid is genuinely efficient
- 0-60 in 4.4 seconds in both generations
- Quattro AWD makes it all-weather usable
- C8 cabin tech is genuinely modern
Weaknesses
- Less character than the V10 predecessor
- Heavier than rivals (4,400+ lb on C8)
- C7 dual-clutch has known mechatronics issues
- C8's MMI haptic touchscreens are polarising
- Infotainment occasional lag on C8
Notable tech
- C7: 4.0L twin-turbo V8 (420 hp)
- C8: 2.9L twin-turbo V6 + 48V mild-hybrid (444 hp)
- Seven-speed S tronic (C7) / 8-speed Tiptronic (C8)
- Quattro AWD with Sport diff (C8)
- Adaptive air suspension optional
- Virtual Cockpit (C8)
Common issues
- C7 mechatronics unit failures
- C7 4.0 TT timing chain tensioner concerns
- Both: carbon build-up on intake valves
- C8 MMI haptic-screen complaints
- Air suspension air-spring leaks (when optioned)
Used-market budget
$38,000
C7 cars $22-35k. C8 (2020-2024) $42-60k. Verify timing chain service on C7. Audi's CPO program adds two years of warranty coverage and is worth the premium.