Following the introduction of the new Audi A8 and the high-volume Audi A4, the Audi 100 model range was renamed Audi A6. The front and rear bumpers, front apron, headlamps, direction indicators and rear lights were redesigned. All models were fitted with side indicators integrated into the front wings, while the protective side mouldings, door handles, exterior mirrors and bumpers were now finished in body colour. The basic body shape and the technical platform of the former Audi 100, however, remained unchanged.
Since 1991, the Audi S4 had been available with a 169 kW (230 PS) turbocharged five-cylinder 20-valve engine and a five-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed manual transmission and 16-inch wheels were available as optional extras. Externally, the S4 could be identified by its white direction indicators, flared front wings and red full-width rear light panel. The interior was equipped in a style similar to that of the Audi S2 Coupé.
As part of the model range renaming and facelift, the Audi S4 was redesignated Audi S6. Sixteen-inch wheels and the six-speed manual gearbox now became standard equipment. Following the model update, the S6 was the only model in the C-series still available with a five-cylinder petrol engine. The high-performance segment was subsequently complemented by the Audi S6 4.2 and the Audi S6 Plus, both powered by V8 engines producing up to 240 kW (326 PS).
The turbocharged five-cylinder engine remained in production until the end of the model’s production run in August 1997. A total of 3,231 Audi S6 saloons were built with this engine.