First Look: 2013 Audi S6, S7, S8 – Review and Test Drive
DRIVING THE 2013 AUDI S6, S7, AND S8
The new Audi SQ5 SUV
I had a chance to test some of these features in each of the three cars, in the span of one day. The routes I took included local and highway driving on straight and winding roads in Westchester County.
Perhaps not surprising, I found the S8 was the most satisfying, particularly when it was set to Dynamic mode, and I felt more confident taking curves faster in it than in the S6 – perhaps in part thanks to the effect of the S8’s dynamic steering. The S7 also felt a little more planted to the road than the S6, which may be attributable to its slightly wider track and greater weight, although the S6 certainly was well grounded in the curves. Comfort mode transformed all three equally into luxury cruisers.
The active engine mounts and active noise cancellation system tied to the cylinder on demand system also worked well; my only clue that half the cylinders were deactivated was an indicator in the instrument panel.
BOTTOM LINE
Audi is aiming its S models at a broader segment of luxury car buyers but hasn’t lost sight of these vehicles’ performance pedigree. The S6, S7, and S8 are equally capable of cruising and carving through corners and, based on my experience, the S8’s extra technology aids will likely improve the driver’s abilities, as well.
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2013 Audi S6 |
2013 Audi S7 |
2013 Audi S8 |
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| Base price | $71,900 | $78,800 | $110,000 |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, all-wheel-drive | Front engine, all-wheel drive | Front engine, all-wheel-drive |
| Engine | 4.0-liter/420 hp/406 lb-ft torque/V8 | 4.0-liter/420 hp/406 lb-ft torque/V8 | 4.0-liter/520 hp/481 lb-ft torque/V8 |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch | 7-speed dual-clutch | 8-speed automatic |
| Curb weight (lbs) | 4,398 | 4,508 | 4,641 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 114.7 | 114.7 | 117.8 |
| Length x width x height (inches) | 193.9 x 73.8 x 57.8 | 195.6 x 75.2 x 55.9 | 202.2 x 76.7 x 57.9 |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 4.5 | 4.5 | 3.9 |
| City/highway fuel economy (mpg) | 17/27 | 17/27 | 15/26 |
(Photos: Accura Media Group)
