Audi’s 300km/h load carrier
Audi has a history of launching unassuming supercars bearing their RS badge but the next RS6 takes this to the extreme with a possible 304km/h top speed.
The latest Quattro GmbH offering will be sold as an estate (station wagon) model only and will feature Audi's trademark all-wheel-drive as well as a development of the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 motor used in the current Audi S6, S7 and S8. Incidentally, Bentley also uses the same engine in their Continental GT V8 where it produces 500bhp but the Audi engineers have gone even further.
The RS6 uses two twin-scroll turbochargers nestled between the cylinders and it's hoped this layout will reduce any turbo-lag. We've already seen BMW's M Division use the same formula for the new M5 where their 4.4-litre V8 produces 552bhp and 680Nm. Audi has managed to squeeze out more though as the RS6 will have the same 552bhp but more torque with 700Nm available from 1750-5500rpm.
Incidentally, the previous iteration of the RS6 used a twin-turbo version of the Lamborghini Gallardo's 5.2-litre V10 and had 28bhp more but new engine developments have allowed Audi to squeeze an extra 50Nm of torque over a wider rev-range. The new V8 also has stop-start technology and a 'cylinder on demand' mode where half the cylinders will be shut down when the car is using 25 - 40 per cent of maximum torque.
The new engine is also lighter than the V10, which helps contribute to the 100kg weight saving over the old car. Therefore, despite being able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds and have a potential top speed of 304km/h, the combined fuel consumption figure of Audi's latest ultra-estate is a miserly 10km/l with a CO2 rating of 229g/km, which is amazing for such a big car with supercar baiting speed.
Like all-German manufacturers though, Audi observes a pre-set speed limit of 250km/h, which goes up to 280km/h with the optional Dynamic Package. Opt for the Dynamic Package Plus and you get the full beans though it's likely to be a costly option.
Only one gearbox will be offered and while less powerful RS models use the twin-clutch automated manual S Tronic 'box, the RS6 will use a ZF eight-speed auto. This will be modified with shorter intermediate ratios to aid acceleration but there will be a taller top ratio to aid fuel economy. Paddle shifts will also be offered.
Like it's competitor from BMW, Audi has given the RS6 an improved self-locking differential with a separate oil cooler, while a Sport differential, which distributes torque between the rear wheels, is an option. The chassis also gets active damping and air suspension with a 20mm lower ride height than the S6. You can also opt for steel springs and Dynamic Ride Control when you opt for sports suspension but that looks like a hardcore option for track day heroes.
Stylistically, there are a few subtle go-faster exterior additions but overall, the RS6 still looks very much like a wolf in sheep's clothing. There is no word yet on when or if the car will arrive or how much it would cost but if you want the ultimate estate car, then you should take a closer look at the next Audi RS6.
