- The first of six RS models slated to arrive by end-2019.
- Gets a 591bhp mild-hybrid twin-turbo V8.
Audi has taken the wraps off the new supercar slaying station wagon – the RS6 Avant. Given the diminishing demands of estate models compared to SUVs, a fast station wagon is a bit of stretch in today’s automotive world. Yet, the German carmaker believes that the concept of the super-fast Avant is more tightly woven into their DNA than virtually any other hallmark of Vorsprung Durch Technik. And so, the RS6 Avant spearheads the RS model offensive slated to arrive by later this year.
The new C8 RS6 Avant is powered by a 4.0-litre TFSI which might sound similar to the older powertrain, but in fact, it is a new engine shared with the Porsche Panamera and Cayenne. The new motor is capable of delivering 591bhp and earth-shattering 800Nm of twisting force. Audi says that the Avant takes a mere 3.6 seconds for 0-100kmph sprint and can do 0-200kmph in 12 seconds elapse time. However, the top speed is electronically limited to 250kmph.
The 48Volt mild-hybrid system comes standard with the twin-turbo V8 saving up to 12kW of power from brake energy recuperation in a separate lithium-ion battery. There’s a clever management system which sends power to all-four wheels channelled through an eight-speed automatic quattro all-wheel-drive system with a 60/40 power split in favour of the rear wheels.
Audi claims that only the front doors, the roof and boot are carried over from the standard car while everything else is specially made for this super-station wagon. Upfront, the massive cascading grille are adjoined by huge air-intakes. The headlamp design follows the new family design language. On the side, the wheel arches are flared by 40mm and are shod by imposing 22-inch V-spoke wheels wrapped in 285/35 section tyres. The ride height is lowered by 20mm compared to the standard car but can be adjusted further thanks to the standard air suspension setup. Audi is offering 13 body colours for RS6 Avant but our favourites are the Nardo Grey and Sebring Black which are RS-exclusive.
Prices for the new performance station wagon haven't been divulged at the moment but we do expect a slight premium over the outgoing model. Similar to the outgoing model, the RS6 Avant should also make its way to our shores.
