Audi RS6 Avant review

The Audi RS6 is a large, monstrously rapid, four-wheel drive estate car. In fact, it’s not just monstrously rapid, it is the fastest big estate car you can buy. Pull up next to a supercar at the traffic lights in the RS6 and you can feel a deep sense of smugness, since the RS6 will hold its own against most exotica in a flat-out drag. Family motoring doesn’t get more power-crazed.

Under the bonnet is a V8 4.0-litre bi-turbo petrol engine, or an even more powerful Performance version, both of which get an eight-speed automatic as standard. As it’s based on the Audi A6 Avant (you can’t get the RS6 as a saloon), you get a high quality cabin, brilliant infotainment and very good space and practicality.

It has very few direct rivals, the Mercedes-AMG E63 Estate being about as close as it gets. Top-end sports SUVs like the Range Rover SVR and Porsche Cayenne Turbo also rank as key competitors where buyers are looking for spacious, premium family cars with outrageous performance potential. It’s just a shame that the RS6 isn’t a bit more comfortable and a bit more at home on UK roads.