Audi RS 6 GT unveiled as iconic ’80s race car tribute, coming to NZ

Take a quick look at Audi’s portfolio of past racecars and without a shadow of a doubt, the 1989 90 quattro IMSA GTO will stick out like a sore thumb as one of the greats. It’s also the car that the German manufacturer took direct inspiration from for the new pinnacle of the RS 6 line-up, the Avant GT.

Set to arrive in New Zealand later this year, albeit just 13 of the 660 being made, the new model introduces us to a host of new styling appointments inside and out, as well as a throwback paint scheme.

In addition to taking inspiration from the old IMSA racer, the RS 6 Avant GT also draws much of its appearance from the RS 6 GTO concept that was revealed in 2020. So think of this as the production version.

The incoming model will feature various exclusive parts like a carbon fibre bonnet and front fenders, 22-inch wheels that reduce air pressure in the wheel arches and improve brake cooling, as well as a double-wing and a rear diffuser at the back.

Kiwi customers will be able to choose from two colour options, Nardo Grey and Mythos Black, both highlighted by black and gray decals. Audi will also offer the wheels in gloss or matte black. There’s no word on whether the iconic red-highlighted white paint scheme will be offered here though.

As for the interior, black leather and Dinamica microfibre can be found throughout, contrasted by red and copper stitching on the steering wheel, sides of the center console, center armrest, door armrests, and the floor mats with “RS 6 GT” lettering. The car’s serial number can also be found on the centre console.

Power output hasn’t changed from the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 mill under the bonnet, producing 463kW and 850Nm of torque. Audi did however manage to reduce the Avant GT’s 0 to 100km/h sprint time by 0.3 seconds compared to the base RS 6, coming to 3.3 seconds.

A specially tuned rear differential also features, along with stiffer adjustable coilover suspension that lowers the car’s ride height by 10mm.

“The RS 6 has always been the pinnacle of our RS offering, and we know Kiwis love it. Almost 25 per cent of our overall volume is made up of RS models, and with New Zealand set to receive only 13 of these limited editions we expect there won’t be enough to meet demand,” says Greg Leet, General Manager of Audi New Zealand.

Pricing for the Audi RS 6 Avant GT has yet to be announced for New Zealand, but local deliveries are expected to begin in the last quarter of 2024.