For the 2026 model year, Audi will no longer offer a combustion-powered S6. The midsize performance slot between the standard A6 and the RS6 will now be filled exclusively by the all-electric S6 Sportback e-tron.
While that may initially appear to narrow buyer choice, it reflects a broader strategic simplification of the brand’s lineup.
Despite recently updating the A6 with a redesigned infotainment interface, a new steering wheel, enhanced voice controls, and additional refinements, Audi has chosen not to develop a new gas-powered S6.
According to Edmunds, the only mid-tier performance option for 2026 will be the electric S6 Sportback e-tron.
Given that the outgoing S6 generated moderate enthusiasm and did not stand out decisively in its segment, it was a logical candidate for discontinuation as Audi rationalizes its offerings.
Audi has also restructured the broader A6 range. Four-cylinder engines have been removed, leaving the gasoline-powered A6 available solely with a 3.0-liter V6 producing 362 horsepower.
Although that figure falls short of the previous S6’s 444 hp output, performance metrics tell a more nuanced story. Audi estimates a 0–60 mph time of 4.5 seconds for the 2026 A6, one-tenth of a second quicker than the prior-generation S6 achieved in Edmunds testing.
Dynamic capability has also improved. Buyers can specify a sport rear differential, firmer suspension tuning, and rear-wheel steering, allowing the standard A6 to deliver sharper handling than before.
For comparison, the all-electric Audi S6 Sportback e-tron employs a dual-motor setup producing 543 horsepower. The Audi A6 e-tron reaches up to 456 horsepower in dual-motor configuration, while the single-motor variant generates 375 hp.
Audi’s decision echoes a move made by BMW several years ago, when it discontinued the V8-powered BMW M550i.
That left buyers to choose between the electric BMW i5 M60 and the flagship BMW M5. In both cases, manufacturers are concentrating resources on either top-tier halo models or electrified performance variants rather than maintaining extensive mid-tier offerings.
Electrification is not replacing every performance Audi. Plans for a next-generation RS6 e-tron have been canceled, and the upcoming C9 RS6 is expected to retain a V8 engine. In the meantime, the current C8 RS6 Avant will continue into 2026.
Audi USA lists the high-performance wagon with a starting price of $130,700. Power comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 delivering 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Audi claims a 0–60 mph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
In practical terms, Audi, like BMW, is no longer attempting to occupy every incremental performance niche. Developing S-badged “middle” models alongside full RS variants is increasingly difficult to justify across all model lines.
The flagship RS models function as halo vehicles and remain strategically important, while buyers seeking strong performance without pursuing ultimate combustion bragging rights are directed toward high-output electric alternatives such as the S6 Sportback e-tron.
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