German Car Zone

The next generation Audi A6 is expected to debut early in 2010 and that means a new performance S6 and super-performance RS6 will likely follow a couple of years later. As improved efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions take hold in the early years of the next decade, that almost certainly means the S6/RS6 will follow the trend of this year's new S4 and down-size its powerplant.

The larger RS6 is currently propelled by a twin turbocharged 5.2-liter V10. The V10 which is shared with the Lamborghini Gallardo (in normally aspirated form) will likely give way to a smaller, boosted V8 that should be lighter and more compact. In all likelihood, the smaller engine won't result in a reduction in performance and will probably be in the 4.0-4.5-liter range with either supercharger, turbos or perhaps both. Recent rumors have indicated that the next M5 will follow the same path taking on the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 from the X6 M.


- Next-gen Audi RS6 to drop V10 in favor of V8? — Autoblog

Not surprising. But I honestly think that they will wait for the M5 before they decide it. If the M5 is a V10, I think they'll keep the V10 but if it's a V8, they'll switch.

Early 2010? I don't think so.

A1 & A8 are coming in early 2010. A6 is coming in late 2010, or even early 2011. What happened with A7 though?

Is a V10 even necessary in these types of cars? Honestly a V8 is enough for these types of cars. I think BMW was just pulling one of those "Look what I can do" moments. You really don't need a V10. Look at the magnificient power the SLS has over the M5. V8 is just as capable. I'm guessing Audi has realized that too. Especially since all these new regulations are coming out.

The A6 needs to be replaced but did it not just get an FL?