The Audi RS 6 Avant Performance represents the culmination of decades of engineering excellence in the high-performance estate segment. As Audi announces the retirement of new RS 6 Avant production in the UK, this final iteration stands as a testament to German automotive prowess, combining supercar-level performance with everyday practicality. With 630 PS of raw power and cutting-edge technology throughout, the RS 6 Performance delivers an uncompromising driving experience that few vehicles can match. This remarkable machine bridges the gap between family transport and track-focused performance, offering genuine versatility without sacrificing the visceral thrill that defines the RS badge.
Twin-turbo V8 TFSI engine architecture and power delivery systems
The heart of the RS 6 Performance lies in its sophisticated powertrain architecture, representing years of development in high-performance engine technology. This advanced system demonstrates how modern engineering can extract extraordinary performance whilst maintaining efficiency and reliability standards expected from premium manufacturers.
4.0-litre biturbo configuration with mild hybrid 48V technology
At the core of the RS 6’s performance credentials sits a meticulously engineered 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This biturbo configuration utilises two strategically positioned turbochargers to eliminate lag whilst maximising power delivery across the entire rev range. The engine’s architecture incorporates hot-V turbocharger placement, positioning the turbos within the cylinder banks for optimal heat management and response characteristics. This configuration reduces the distance exhaust gases travel to reach the turbines, significantly improving throttle response and reducing turbo lag to virtually imperceptible levels.
The integration of 48-volt mild hybrid technology represents a significant advancement in performance vehicle electrification. This system incorporates a belt-driven starter generator (BSG) that provides up to 16 PS of additional power during acceleration phases whilst enabling advanced fuel-saving technologies. The 48V electrical architecture supports the electric compressor system and various chassis technologies, creating a comprehensive approach to performance enhancement that extends beyond traditional mechanical solutions.
630 PS maximum output and 850 nm peak torque characteristics
The RS 6 Performance delivers a staggering 630 PS (621 bhp) at 6,000 rpm, representing a significant increase over the previous generation. This power output places the vehicle firmly in supercar territory whilst maintaining the practicality of a five-seat estate. The engine’s torque delivery proves equally impressive, generating 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of peak torque available from just 2,050 rpm and maintained through to 4,500 rpm.
This broad torque plateau ensures exceptional drivability across all driving scenarios, from urban environments to high-speed autobahn cruising. The power delivery characteristics have been specifically calibrated to provide linear acceleration that feels both controllable and explosive, depending on the driver’s requirements. Performance engineers have optimised the engine mapping to deliver maximum torque earlier in the rev range whilst maintaining peak power output at higher RPMs, creating a versatile performance envelope.
Variable valve timing and Cylinder-on-Demand deactivation system
Advanced valve timing technology plays a crucial role in optimising both performance and efficiency characteristics. The engine incorporates dual variable valve timing systems on both intake and exhaust camshafts, allowing precise control over valve events throughout the operational range. This technology enables the engine to optimise breathing characteristics for different load conditions, improving both low-end torque delivery and high-RPM power output.
The cylinder-on-demand (COD) system represents sophisticated engineering that can deactivate four cylinders during light load conditions. When cruising or operating under minimal throttle inputs, the system seamlessly shuts down cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8, effectively transforming the V8 into a highly efficient four-cylinder unit. This transition occurs imperceptibly to occupants whilst delivering significant fuel economy improvements during highway cruising and urban driving scenarios.
Integrated starter generator and electric compressor integration
The integrated starter generator system serves multiple functions within the RS 6’s powertrain architecture. Beyond traditional starting duties, this unit provides energy recovery during deceleration phases, charges the 48V battery system, and delivers additional power assistance during acceleration. The system can provide up to 12 kW of electrical assistance, effectively eliminating any perceived lag during initial acceleration phases.
The electric compressor technology works in conjunction with the traditional turbochargers to provide immediate boost pressure before exhaust gas flow reaches sufficient levels to drive the main turbochargers. This electric supercharging effect virtually eliminates turbo lag whilst providing additional airflow during peak performance demands. The system represents a bridge between traditional forced induction and full electrification, offering performance benefits without the complexity of larger hybrid systems.
Quattro ultra All-Wheel drive and dynamic chassis control
The RS 6 Performance employs Audi’s most advanced all-wheel drive technology, representing decades of refinement in traction and stability systems. This sophisticated drivetrain manages the substantial power output whilst providing confidence-inspiring handling characteristics across diverse driving conditions and surfaces.
Sport differential with torque vectoring capabilities
The rear-mounted sport differential incorporates active torque vectoring technology that can distribute power between the rear wheels with remarkable precision. This electronically controlled system can send up to 70% of available torque to either rear wheel, depending on driving conditions and driver inputs. The differential works in conjunction with the quattro system’s centre differential to provide optimal traction distribution across all four contact patches.
During aggressive cornering, the sport differential actively transfers torque to the outside rear wheel, effectively pulling the vehicle through corners and reducing understeer tendencies. This technology transforms the driving experience, making the substantial 2,090 kg kerb weight feel significantly more manageable during spirited driving. The system operates seamlessly, requiring no driver intervention whilst dramatically improving cornering capabilities and stability.
Adaptive air suspension with four selectable ride heights
The adaptive air suspension system provides unprecedented versatility in ride height and damping characteristics. Four selectable ride heights accommodate various driving scenarios, from maximum ground clearance for challenging terrain to aerodynamically optimised low settings for high-speed stability. The system can lower the vehicle by up to 30mm in dynamic mode whilst raising it by 20mm for improved clearance when required.
Each air spring incorporates individual pressure control, allowing the system to compensate for load variations and maintain optimal ride height regardless of cargo or passenger configuration. The damping characteristics adjust continuously based on driving mode selection, road surface conditions, and driving style. Advanced sensors monitor body movement, wheel position, and acceleration forces to provide real-time suspension adjustments that optimise both comfort and performance.
Dynamic ride control Anti-Roll stabilisation technology
Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) represents cutting-edge chassis technology that actively controls body roll during cornering whilst maintaining ride comfort over irregular surfaces. The system connects the front and rear anti-roll bars through hydraulic actuators that can apply opposing forces to counteract body movement. This technology allows the suspension to remain relatively soft for comfort whilst providing exceptional roll control when needed.
During straight-line driving over uneven surfaces, the DRC system allows independent wheel movement without transmitting forces through the anti-roll bars, maintaining comfort and traction. However, when cornering forces are detected, the system instantly stiffens the appropriate anti-roll bar sections to minimise body roll and maintain optimal tyre contact patches. This dual-mode operation delivers the best characteristics of both comfort-oriented and sport-focused suspension systems.
Rs-specific calibration for drive select performance modes
The Audi Drive Select system incorporates six distinct driving modes specifically calibrated for RS 6 Performance characteristics. Comfort mode prioritises ride quality and fuel efficiency, whilst Dynamic mode sharpens all vehicle responses for spirited driving. The RS1 and RS2 modes allow complete customisation of individual vehicle parameters, enabling drivers to create personalised setups for specific driving scenarios.
Each mode affects engine response, transmission behaviour, steering characteristics, suspension settings, exhaust note, and stability system intervention levels. The Individual mode permits granular control over each system, allowing experienced drivers to create bespoke configurations that match their preferences and driving conditions. Professional drivers often utilise these customisation options to optimise vehicle behaviour for specific tracks or driving environments.
Carbon fibre aerodynamics package and lightweight construction
The RS 6 Performance incorporates extensive aerodynamic optimisation through strategically placed carbon fibre components and active aerodynamic systems. These elements work together to provide stability at high speeds whilst reducing overall vehicle weight and improving cooling efficiency. The aerodynamic package demonstrates how form and function can combine to enhance both visual appeal and performance characteristics.
The front splitter and rear diffuser utilise computational fluid dynamics optimisation to manage airflow beneath the vehicle, reducing lift forces whilst directing cooling air to critical components. The active rear spoiler deploys automatically at speeds above 120 km/h, providing additional downforce and stability during high-speed operation. This spoiler retracts when speeds drop below 80 km/h, maintaining optimal aerodynamic efficiency across the vehicle’s operational range.
Carbon fibre components extend beyond aerodynamic elements to include structural components that reduce unsprung weight whilst maintaining rigidity. The optional carbon fibre roof panel alone saves approximately 3.5 kg compared to the standard steel unit, whilst the carbon ceramic brake system reduces unsprung weight by over 15 kg compared to conventional iron discs. These weight reductions improve acceleration, braking, and handling characteristics whilst demonstrating advanced materials technology.
The integration of carbon fibre technology throughout the RS 6 Performance represents a comprehensive approach to weight reduction that benefits every aspect of vehicle dynamics.
MMI touch response infotainment and virtual cockpit plus integration
The interior technology suite centres around the MMI Touch Response system, featuring dual touchscreen displays that eliminate traditional physical controls. The upper 10.1-inch display manages infotainment functions, whilst the lower 8.6-inch screen controls climate and vehicle settings. Both screens incorporate haptic feedback technology that provides tactile confirmation of inputs, improving usability whilst maintaining focus on driving.
The Virtual Cockpit Plus system replaces traditional analogue gauges with a customisable 12.3-inch high-resolution display. This system can present information in various layouts, from traditional gauge clusters to full-screen navigation displays. The RS-specific display modes include performance-focused layouts showing power output, torque delivery, G-forces, and lap timing information. Track enthusiasts particularly appreciate the ability to monitor real-time performance data during circuit driving sessions.
Connectivity features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, alongside embedded navigation with real-time traffic data. The optional Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system incorporates 19 speakers strategically positioned throughout the cabin to create an immersive audio experience. This premium audio system utilises advanced digital signal processing to optimise sound quality based on seating position and ambient noise levels.
Brembo Carbon-Ceramic brake system and performance tyres specification
The braking system represents critical technology for managing the RS 6’s substantial performance capabilities. The standard steel brake setup features large ventilated discs with six-piston front callipers, providing excellent stopping power for everyday use. However, the optional carbon-ceramic system elevates braking performance to track-worthy levels whilst reducing unsprung weight and improving heat dissipation.
Carbon-ceramic discs measure 420mm at the front and 370mm at the rear, providing exceptional thermal capacity and fade resistance. These discs can withstand repeated hard stops from high speeds without performance degradation, making them ideal for track use or aggressive driving scenarios. The reduced unsprung weight improves suspension response and wheel control, particularly noticeable during rapid direction changes or uneven road surfaces.
The standard tyre specification utilises 275/30 ZR22 rubber at all four corners, mounted on lightweight forged aluminium wheels. These tyres represent a balance between performance and practicality, providing excellent grip whilst maintaining reasonable durability for daily use. The wide contact patch works with the quattro system to maximise traction during acceleration, whilst the low-profile sidewalls improve steering precision and cornering response.
Performance tyre technology continues advancing rapidly, with modern compounds offering unprecedented grip levels whilst maintaining acceptable wear characteristics for daily use.
RS 6 performance variant enhancements and Track-Focused upgrades
The Performance designation represents the pinnacle of RS 6 development, incorporating numerous enhancements over previous iterations. These improvements focus on extracting maximum performance whilst maintaining the refinement expected from premium estates. The upgrades demonstrate how continuous development can elevate already exceptional vehicles to new performance levels.
Engine modifications include revised turbocharger mapping, enhanced cooling systems, and optimised exhaust routing to support the increased power output. The transmission receives upgraded clutch packs and revised programming to handle the additional torque whilst providing faster shift speeds. These mechanical enhancements work together to deliver the 3.4-second 0-62 mph acceleration time that places the RS 6 Performance among the quickest estates ever produced.
Track-focused upgrades include the optional ceramic brake system, sport suspension calibration, and performance-oriented stability system settings. The Electronic Stability Control system incorporates RS-specific programming that allows greater slip angles whilst maintaining safety margins. This calibration enables more engaging driving characteristics without compromising safety, particularly beneficial for track day events or advanced driver training scenarios.
The exhaust system receives specific tuning to enhance the V8’s natural soundtrack whilst meeting stringent emissions requirements. Active valving allows drivers to select from subtle to aggressive exhaust notes, adapting the auditory experience to match driving conditions and personal preferences. Sound engineers have carefully crafted the exhaust note to emphasise the engine’s character whilst avoiding excessive noise levels that might limit usability in various environments.
| Performance Metric | RS 6 Performance | Previous RS 6 |
| Power Output (PS) | 630 | 600 |
| Peak Torque (Nm) | 850 | 800 |
| 0-62 mph (seconds) | 3.4 | 3.6 |
| Top Speed (mph) | 190 (with RS Dynamic Package) | 174 |
The limited-edition GT variant represents the ultimate expression of RS 6 Performance capabilities, incorporating race-inspired modifications that further enhance track performance. This exclusive model features manually adjustable coilover suspension, additional aerodynamic components, and weight-saving measures that reduce overall mass whilst improving handling precision. Only 660 units planned globally, with 60 allocated to the UK market, making this variant exceptionally rare and collectible.
Final production of the RS 6 Avant marks the end of an era for high-performance estates, as manufacturers increasingly focus on SUV platforms. This transition reflects changing market preferences, but enthusiasts recognise that estates like the RS 6 Performance offer unique combinations of practicality and performance that SUVs struggle to match. The lower centre of gravity, aerodynamic efficiency, and cargo versatility make estates particularly suited to European driving conditions and preferences, ensuring continued appreciation among discerning drivers who prioritise handling excellence alongside practical utility.