I'm not the kind of guy who will manually change gears with an automatic transmission. But what a thrill using the S6's paddle shifters! This device doesn't change gears as lightning-quick as the A3 with the DSG (oops, I mean S tronic) tranny, but the difference can be measured in fractions of a second.
With such a big engine, one would expect Hummer-like fuel consumption, but it's not the case; my average of 14.5 L/100 km is okay, considering I didn't lift my right foot off the gas pedal very often.
And yet the car isn't a beast that requires a constant beating. The S6 roars when asked to, but when we want to drive more calmly, like with the father-in-law or our boss on board, the car will be docile and silent. Wait, if we're buying a car this pricey, WE'RE the boss. Anyway, you know what I mean.
Audi's engineers have not only created a split-personality engine, but they've done the same with the suspension. Relatively soft in more-relaxed driving, it can be quite capable of keeping the car stuck to the pavement when we pick up the pace.
MMI: not for me
There's a high-luxury cockpit in the S6, but the driving experience is somewhat tarnished by MMI on-board computer. I find it less user-friendly than similar systems offered by rival brands, like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. But what really burns me are the heating and ventilation controls, which require as much attention as my 3-year-old daughter. They're a real distraction while driving. I invented new swear words in the S6.
The firm seats are very supportive, and the driver's instrument panel has clear and precise dials. Visibility is excellent all around, and an ideal driving position is easily found.
In back, there is space for two, but three across is pushing it. If you think a car this size must have more room back there, you're right; but know that other mid-size luxury sedans aren't better: the Lexus GS, for example, has the same problem.
The trunk, however, is huge; it benefits from a medium-sized opening, but it's deep enough for a few Jimmy Hoffas.
With such a big engine, one would expect Hummer-like fuel consumption, but it's not the case; my average of 14.5 L/100 km is okay, considering I didn't lift my right foot off the gas pedal very often.
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| The suspension works admirably well without punishing the occupants. |
And yet the car isn't a beast that requires a constant beating. The S6 roars when asked to, but when we want to drive more calmly, like with the father-in-law or our boss on board, the car will be docile and silent. Wait, if we're buying a car this pricey, WE'RE the boss. Anyway, you know what I mean.
Audi's engineers have not only created a split-personality engine, but they've done the same with the suspension. Relatively soft in more-relaxed driving, it can be quite capable of keeping the car stuck to the pavement when we pick up the pace.
MMI: not for me
There's a high-luxury cockpit in the S6, but the driving experience is somewhat tarnished by MMI on-board computer. I find it less user-friendly than similar systems offered by rival brands, like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. But what really burns me are the heating and ventilation controls, which require as much attention as my 3-year-old daughter. They're a real distraction while driving. I invented new swear words in the S6.
The firm seats are very supportive, and the driver's instrument panel has clear and precise dials. Visibility is excellent all around, and an ideal driving position is easily found.
In back, there is space for two, but three across is pushing it. If you think a car this size must have more room back there, you're right; but know that other mid-size luxury sedans aren't better: the Lexus GS, for example, has the same problem.
The trunk, however, is huge; it benefits from a medium-sized opening, but it's deep enough for a few Jimmy Hoffas.
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| It will take you awhile to figure out the MMI system. |