If you’re in the market for a high-performance saloon, then chances are that running costs aren’t a major deal-breaker in what model you choose. The Audi S6 running costs have been lowered because fuel economy improvements have been made over its predecessor, however. The claimed average economy for the Saloon has increased to 29.1mpg, up from 22mpg, while the Avant is now capable of 29.4mpg, increased from 21mpg.

It’s hardly going to save you £1,000s but it’s a start.

With a smaller engine and the addition of eco technology like cylinder-on-demand and stop/start Audi S6 emissions have been improved over the previous car. The last car emitted 299g/km of CO2 and this has been lowered to 225g/km on the Saloon and 226g/km on the Avant.

Audis have an excellent reputation for reliability and build quality, and the Audi S6 reliability should continue this. The only real question mark is likely to be over the new 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, which is being used here for the first time. The company has had few problems with engines in the past, however, and this one should also be trouble-free.