Audi has made good on its promise to eliminate fake exhaust tips, starting with the new S5 sold in Europe. The car now features a real quad setup, a much-needed change that has been well received by enthusiasts. However, when it comes to the larger S6 Sedan, S6 Avant, and S7 Sportback models, the situation is a bit different. While these models have also done away with the fake exhaust tips, they have not reverted to the traditional quad setup. Instead, the exhaust tips are now tucked away underneath the bumper, giving the cars a sleek and modern look.
Screenshots from the German configurator show the updated rear-end design of the S6 Sedan, S6 Avant, and S7 Sportback, with the exhaust tips hidden from view. This design choice gives the cars a futuristic appearance, reminiscent of Audi’s new S-badged electric vehicles. Despite their electric-like aesthetics, these models still feature a combustion engine, specifically a V-6 that is different from the one found in North American models.
When Audi initially launched the S6 and S7 models a few years ago, European buyers were surprised to find that they were equipped with diesel engines instead of the twin-turbo, 2.9-liter V-6 gas engines found in the US-spec models. Audi justified this decision by citing the popularity of diesel engines in Europe at the time, as well as the need to lower fleet emissions. However, with the release of the new S5 featuring a 3.0-liter V-6 TFSI engine globally, it seems that Audi is moving away from diesel powertrains in its performance models.
Spy shots have revealed that Audi is working on replacements for the S6 and S7 models, which are likely to ditch the diesel engines in favor of gasoline-powered variants. Under Audi’s updated naming scheme, the ICE-powered S6 will be rebranded as the S7. This change aligns with Audi’s efforts to streamline its lineup and offer a more consistent naming convention across its range of vehicles.
Overall, Audi’s decision to eliminate fake exhaust tips and make subtle design changes to its performance models reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation and customer feedback. By listening to consumer preferences and adapting to market trends, Audi continues to set the standard for luxury and performance in the automotive industry.
