Audi
S6
Owner report available
Porsche
Taycan
Owner report available
Audi S6 vs Porsche Taycan
The short answer
Based on available data, the Porsche Taycan comes out ahead of the Audi S6 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
S6
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific generation and powertrain. For the C7 generation (approximately 2013-2018) with the twin-turbo 4.0L V8 (4.0T), the vehicle is widely praised for its potent performance, refined luxury, and high-speed cruising capability, described as stable and quiet even at high speeds (e.g., 155 mph / 250 km/h). However, this generation is overshadowed by a very frequent and severe concern regarding catastrophic turbocharger failure, linked to oil screen design flaws, which can lead to engine destruction and extremely high repair costs.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. For the C7 generation (4.0T), there is a strong emphasis on purchasing a vehicle with a comprehensive extended warranty that explicitly covers the turbochargers.
Known issues
- Catastrophic turbocharger failure (C7 4.0T V8): Caused by restrictive oil screens leading to oil starvation, turbo failure, and potential engine destruction. Repair costs are extremely high ($9,000-$12,000 USD at a dealer).
- Software and electronic issues (S6 e-tron): Numerous software glitches requiring multiple service visits, though not necessarily impacting drivability. Frequency: recurrent.
- Carbon buildup (C6 V10 models): Leads to rough running and performance issues, particularly noted on 2007-2008 models. Frequency: recurrent.
Taycan
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between driving experience and ownership reliability. The vehicle is universally praised for its exceptional driving dynamics, handling, and performance, described as "the best road-legal e-car thus far," "elegant and great fun to drive," and a "very good sports car." Owners highlight its rock-stable high-speed stability, insanely good road grip, and the significant benefit of its two-speed gearbox. The instant torque and direct, responsive EV driving experience are frequently cited as major positives, with some stating it has "ruined me for gas." However, this is heavily counterbalanced by very frequent and severe criticisms regarding reliability, software, and service.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Discussions mention various trims (4S, GTS, Turbo, Turbo S, Turbo GT) with different performance levels.
Known issues
- Major reliability and component failures: including transmission replacement, rear differential replacement, heater replacement, and high-voltage battery replacement (with a cited out-of-warranty cost of approximately $52,000).
- Software and infotainment bugs: system freezes, slow response, navigation failures, profile memory issues, charge planner glitches, Android Auto/CarPlay connectivity problems, and lack of software updates for older model years.
- Poor software support and updates: manufacturer does not update older model years to newer software versions, leaving navigation systems broken for extended periods (e.g., 8 months in Europe for 2020-2024 models). Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Porsche Taycan is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Audi S6, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Audi S6 is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi S6 or the Porsche Taycan?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi S6 and the Porsche Taycan. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi S6 or the Porsche Taycan?
The Audi S6 seats more passengers than the Porsche Taycan on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Audi S6 is classed as a Sedan, the Porsche Taycan as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi S6 or the Porsche Taycan?
The EPA rates the 2027 Audi S6 at 100–103 MPGe combined and the 2026 Porsche Taycan at 77–93 MPGe, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi S6 or the Porsche Taycan?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Audi S6 than the Porsche Taycan. See the known issues comparison above.