Audi's S Models Arrive in Japan All at Once

Audi S6 / S6 Avant / S7 Sportback / S8 |
Audi S6 / S6 Avant / S7 Sportback / S8

A Treasury of Technology

Audi's S Models Arrive in Japan

Audi Japan has announced the new "S6," "S6 Avant," "S7 Sportback," and "S8." These vehicles are packed with Audi's technology, offering higher performance than their "A"-badged counterparts while also excelling in environmental and comfort features.Reservations are already open in Japan,but these S models have finally revealed themselves to us.

Text and Photographs by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)

Equipped with the Latest Environmental Systems

OPENERS has already published reviews for the "S6," "S6 Avant," and "S7 Sportback",Tatsuya Otani's Test Drive Reportand now, with the addition of the "S8," Audi's S models, all equipped with the latest 4-liter V8 twin-turbo engine, have made a simultaneous debut in Japan.

The 4-liter V8 engine is the result ofjoint development with Bentley. It incorporates Audi's renowned lightweight technology, "Audi Ultra", and various environmental technologies including downsizing. Most notably, it features "cylinder on demand" technology, which deactivates four cylinders when high torque is not required, allowing the V8 engine to operate like a V4 temporarily. This not only uses engine power efficiently but also reduces environmental impact.

Furthermore, this engine works in conjunction with four microphones installed in the cabin. The "active noise control" system cancels out noise by emitting sound waves with an inverted phase through the audio speakers, while the "active engine mount" counteracts engine vibrations by vibrating the mounts themselves. These technologies demonstrate exceptional attention to comfort.

Audi S6 Avant

Audi S7 Sportback

Performance is also exceptional. In addition to the aforementioned "cylinder on demand," twin-scroll turbochargers are mounted within the V-banks, compacting exhaust and boost. Further efficiency improvements in the exhaust path eliminate the typical turbo lag and response issues associated with turbo engines compared to naturally aspirated ones. The drivetrain is, of course, Audi's renowned "quattro" all-wheel drive. The standard torque distribution is 40% front and 60% rear, but this can vary up to 85% to the rear and 70% to the front depending on road and driving conditions.

While the S8 uses the same engine as the S6/S7, its tuning is modified for a 100 ps increase in maximum output. It also features 21-inch alloy wheels and dedicated brake calipers.

The total sales target for the "S6," "S6 Avant," "S7," and "S8" announced this time is 200 units for the remainder of the year, with a target of 600 units for next year. Sales begin today, with deliveries scheduled for October.

These S models, representing the culmination of Audi's technology, are targeted by Audi Japan as "Intelligent Power Players."

At the announcement event, conductor Yutaka Sado, known for leading the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra's subscription concerts, made an appearance and performed a special piece. Additionally, Olympic swimming medalist in the men's 200m butterfly, Takeshi Matsuda, appeared as a guest. He engaged in a talk session with President Okita, stating, "Balancing power and efficiency is the same in swimming."

Audi S8 | Audi S8
Engine | V8 DOHC twin-scroll twin-turbo
Displacement | 3,993 cc
Max Output | 382 kW (520ps) / 5,800 rpm
Max Torque | 650 Nm / 1,700-5,500 rpm
Length x Width x Height | 5,146 × 1,949 × 1,458 mm
Curb Weight | 1,945 kg
Transmission | 8-speed S tronic
Drivetrain | All-wheel drive
Trunk Capacity | ------
Fuel Economy | 10.2 ℓ / 100 km (NEDC)
CO2 Emissions | --- g / km
Top Speed | 250 km / h
0-100 km/h Acceleration | 4.2 seconds
Price | 15,800,000 yen

OPENERS

Audi's S Models Arrive in Japan All at Once

Audi S6 / S6 Avant / S7 Sportback / S8 |
Audi S6 / S6 Avant / S7 Sportback / S8

A Treasury of Technology