Audi is Prepping an RS 6 e-tron Avant

As suggested a month or so ago, Audi is putting the finishing touches on a dual-motor RS version of the A6 e-tron Avant. It promises sharp performance, naturally, and a more aggressive stance than the recently unveiled A/S6 e-tron Avant. It is due to go on sale in Europe next year. 

This is the new range-topper in the A6 e-tron line-up. Well, alongside the RS 6 e-tron saloon version that has also been spotted testing recently. Expect a much more aggressive body kit than the standard A6 e-tron, as with the petrol RS 6. There’s a chunkier front bumper from the S6 and different headlight signature in the upper cluster. 

Look out also for RS-exclusive alloys, and up front there’s an opening behind the leading wheels that looks to be inspired by that in the new RS 6 GT. At the rear is a fresh bumper design and what looks to be a faux diffuser. The rear roof spoiler is different from that on the standard A6 e-tron Avant. Camera mirrors should enhance battery range some.

Obviously, there’s a substantial lift in output. S6 e-tron is AWD and with 404kW requires 3.9sec to hit 100 from stopped. Close relative Porsche Macan Turbo Electric has 470kW and manages 0-100 in 3.3sec. The RS 6 e-tron will likely be as quick as this. 

However, there’s sure to be a roughly 10 per cent decrease in range to around 560km. 

The RS 6 e-tron will probably come standard with the three-screen cockpit, an option in the S6 variant. Audi RS models typically get top of the range infotainment systems, and extra modes to make use of the added performance potential. RS 6 e-tron should therefore come with both of these items.

No price is yet to hand for the S6 which is due out midway through next year, so RS 6 e-tron pricing is some way off yet. However, AutoExpress expects it to kick off from roughly $NZ250k equivalent.