So here we have it, the all-new Audi RS 6 Avant. And like the whole Audi lineup, anything that bears the lettering “RS” is nothing to be made fun with, even if it is in the form of a tame, deceivingly-looking urban wagon. But unlike the previous RS 6 that houses a monstrous V10 under the hood, this one has a V8 instead; so no more oomph from this Deutschland sleeper?
But even with a smaller engine, the twin-tuborcharged 4.0-liter V8 can still squeeze out an impressive 560-horsepower, only 20 less than the previous version. And those amounts of horses are being channeled properly through the eight-speed tiptronic transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system, giving it a zerotohundred time of only 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h. The optional Dynamic package however allows it to hit 280km/h, and a faster 305km/h on the Dynamic Plus.
As for the ride, the RS 6 comes in with specifically tuned air suspension, which is also the first RS model in Audi’s arsenal to have those as standard. This allows the Avant to be lowered by 2cm, and controlled damping giving out the optimal ride comfort depending on the road conditions.
Stopping power is provided by four internally vented discs, with the carbon ceramic brake discs available as an optional extra to those wanting an extra edge. Covering these brakes are standard 20-inch wheels that could be changed to the 21-inch wheels in the optional list.
So sometimes less does mean more. And with the combination of a smaller V8 and a lighter body build that shaves off 100kg than the previous RS 6, this German wagon has yet to lose its presence as a terrifying sleeper that should not be messed around.
