The Audi RS 6 has been the point of reference among sports station wagons for over 20 years. Although BMW, Mercedes or Porsche have also built many explosive models with a large trunk, the RS 6 Avant continues to seduce with its two-sided character: practical, comfortable and chic on the one hand, but also explosive and super fast when conditions they allow it. As if this well-mannered and clean-cut fellow suddenly turns into a punk rocker without any hesitation…
Less subtle
However, the fourth model in the line (the C8), introduced in 2019 as the RS 6 Avant station wagon and the RS 7 Sportback four-door coupe, slightly shifted the balance between the two personalities. Opting for a more aggressive look, but also adding more and more technology to make its behavior even more edgy. Such as the steering rear wheels. Just like its predecessor, the C7, the current generation C8 gets a new Performance version which even replaced the “normal” RS 6 in the Belgian range.
Moustache
In terms of look, new colors were introduced for the occasion, such as the Blu Ascari of our test model. The Performance models are also distinguished by the RS body elements painted in matt gray as standard: side mirrors, spoiler, side skirts and rear diffuser. This means the model moves away from the ‘sporty casual’ look we loved with previous RS 6 generations, which we think is a shame. But let’s face it: the RS 6 Avant Performance, with its wide hips, still has enough charisma to make our mouths water, despite its “moustache” and extra layer of makeup. Additionally, Audi offers the option to check out packages that output all these details in a darker color if you prefer.
Gym shoes
Most interesting, however, is the arrival of a new set of lightweight 22-inch wheels. These not only improve brake cooling, but each wheel weighs about 5 kilos less than the 22-inch aluminum rims of the “normal” RS 6 Avant. A total weight reduction of 20 kilos of unsprung mass, that already counts! Furthermore, these rims are equipped with new sports rubber (285/30) which should also improve grip during sporty driving. On paper they significantly increase cornering speed and also reduce braking distance by up to 2 meters when braking from 100 to 0 km/h. We didn’t use our meter to test this, but the grippy feel is certainly impressive and further enhances the agile side that you wouldn’t expect from a car of this size.
Supercars for the whole family
Performance models come standard with an interior with blue accents, which were also present on our test model. But again you don’t have to worry if it’s not your taste, because the interior can also be completely customized to your wishes with different color options. What is clear is that the RS 6 Avant Performance remains a supercar for the whole family. It’s spacious and has a large, easily accessible boot, just like the more everyday A6 Avant.
Furthermore, in our opinion, the RS 6 has achieved the maximum in terms of ergonomics and infotainment. Of course, the latest gadgets such as those of the new BMW 5 Series or the Mercedes E-Class are not included, since this A6/RS 6 generation is already a little older than its competitors. But we didn’t lack those gadgets either… We just need to be able to clearly see all the necessary information, with the possibility of switching from one ‘RS’ configuration to another with a simple movement of the thumb. That’s all it takes to make us happy!
+ 30 HP and 50 Nm
Under the hood, this Performance retains the same 4.0 twin-turbo V8 as the “normal” RS 6 C8, but blows a little louder through its pipes. The turbo pressure increases from 2.4 to 2.6 bar, resulting in an increase in peak power of 30 HP and 50 Nm. This gives a total of 630 HP and 850 Nm(!), which comes out with light pressure from the right foot. Even compared to the new generation of high-power electric cars, you have nothing to be ashamed of with this “archaic” V8.
Mainly because the RS 6 Avant has become a little lighter than the Performance (including less sound insulation in the bonnet, which makes the sound more audible), reducing its curb weight to 2,075 kg. With launch control enabled, the RS 6 Performance now catapults you to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds (-0.2 s compared to the RS 6). Of course, there are several electric cars that can do better. But the RS 6 offers more sensations and can even reach a speed of 280 km/h or even 305 km/h with the optional RS Dynamic package!
Fiesta ST on steroids
But the Audi RS 6 Performance makes more of an impression when cornering. The improvements made by the German brand are just what the model needed to take driving pleasure to a new level. We have already talked about the tires previously, but the efficiency of the transmission is also impressive, which slightly favors the rear axle (standard 40/60, up to 85% on the rear axle) to allow light “power slides”, without start. wagging his tail in vain. Another compliment goes to the steering, which is light but also offers perfect feedback and sufficient consistency. Without forgetting the rear wheel steering, the rear differential lock and the bite of the carbon-ceramic brakes (standard with the RS Dynamic package), which contribute to the feeling of compactness and lightness while driving. You almost feel like you’re rocking a lightweight sports car like the Ford Fiesta ST from corner to corner. The only difference is that 630 HP and 850 Nm are unleashed on the winding asphalt…
Price Audi RS 6 Performance
Audi offers the RS 6 Performance starting from 145,100 euros. The standard equipment is already very complete. But if you add (as on our test model) laser lights, lighter 22-inch wheels, the RS Dynamic package and some extras, the price can rise significantly (in this case up to around 170,000 euros). And the same goes for consumption if you can’t resist the temptation to step on the gas. During our test period, the average was close to the limit of 20 l/100 km… But with more self-control it should be possible even almost half!
Our verdict
This Performance version subtly enhances the sporting qualities of the Audi RS 6 Avant. It gains efficiency and dynamics, without compromising general comfort and great versatility. If we could only keep one combustion engine car in our garage, it would undoubtedly be this one…
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2024-01-05 17:39:38
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