Overall Rating
4.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.9
Comfort & Interior
4.5
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
4.4
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a car that combines supercar performance with everyday practicality? The Audi RS4 Avant might be exactly what you need. This high performance estate delivers serious firepower under the bonnet while offering enough space for a family road trip. It’s the perfect choice for drivers who want track day thrills without sacrificing practicality.
From the moment you see it, the RS4 Avant commands attention. The aggressive body styling, massive wheel arches, and distinctive grille make it clear this isn’t your average estate car. But step inside and you’ll discover a beautifully crafted interior that rivals luxury saloons. The build quality is exceptional, with premium materials throughout and cutting edge technology that makes every journey feel special.
Driving the RS4 Avant is an unforgettable experience. The twin turbocharged V6 engine delivers explosive acceleration that pins you to your seat, while the quattro all wheel drive system keeps everything under control. It handles like a sports car on winding roads but transforms into a comfortable cruiser for motorway journeys. While it commands a premium price compared to regular estates, you’re getting genuine supercar performance in a practical package that you can use every single day.
What's the Audi RS4 Avant Like to Drive?
The Audi RS4 Avant is designed to be an absolute weapon on the road. The 2.9 litre twin turbocharged V6 engine produces a mighty 444 horsepower, launching this estate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. That’s seriously quick for any car, let alone one that can carry a full family and luggage. The engine note is intoxicating, with a deep growl that builds to a thunderous roar under acceleration.
Where the RS4 truly excels is in its all weather capability. The legendary quattro all wheel drive system sends power to all four wheels, providing incredible grip and traction in any conditions. The adaptive suspension can be adjusted from comfortable for daily driving to rock hard for track use. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you complete confidence when pushing hard. This is a car that makes every journey exciting, whether you’re collecting the shopping or heading to a track day.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.9L V6 Twin Turbo
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Power Output
444 bhp
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0-60 mph
4.1 seconds
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MPG Combined
28 - 32 mpg
- Boot Space
- 505 litres
- Safety Rating
- (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Audi RS4 Avant: Comfort & Features
Step inside the RS4 Avant and you’re greeted by one of the finest interiors in its class. The cabin feels like a luxurious cockpit, with supportive sports seats wrapped in premium leather and Alcantara. The dashboard is a masterpiece of German engineering, featuring the latest Virtual Cockpit display and MMI infotainment system. Every surface feels solid and well built, from the metal paddle shifters to the carbon fibre trim pieces.
The front seats are absolutely superb, offering excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys. There’s plenty of adjustment to help you find the perfect driving position. Rear seat passengers get generous space for an estate of this size, though the firm suspension can make the ride a bit choppy on broken surfaces. Standard equipment is comprehensive, including heated seats, climate control, and smartphone integration that keeps you connected on every journey.
The Audi RS4 Avant is a truly special car that successfully combines supercar performance with genuine everyday usability. The twin turbo V6 engine provides intoxicating acceleration, while the quattro system ensures you can use all that power safely. The interior is beautifully crafted and packed with the latest technology. The main drawbacks are the high running costs and firm ride quality on poor surfaces. It’s also not as involving to drive as some rivals, prioritising all weather capability over pure driver engagement. However, if you want a car that can handle the school run on Monday and a track day on Saturday, the RS4 Avant is virtually unbeatable. For those who can afford the premium, it represents the perfect blend of performance and practicality.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi RS4 Avant?
As a high performance flagship, the RS4 Avant comes with premium running costs to match its capabilities. The powerful twin turbo engine returns real world fuel economy of around 28 to 32 MPG, which is reasonable given the performance on offer. Insurance costs will be high due to the significant power and desirability of the car. Servicing at Audi dealerships is expensive, but essential to maintain reliability and warranty coverage.
The purchase price puts the RS4 firmly in luxury territory, competing with high end sports cars rather than regular estates. However, for those who can afford it, the combination of everyday usability and supercar performance represents excellent value. Depreciation is relatively strong in the first few years, though RS models tend to hold their value better than regular Audis. Car finance options can help spread the cost, making this dream car more accessible to enthusiasts.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Audi RS4 Avant
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BMW M3 Touring
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Mercedes AMG C63 Estate
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £75,000 | £73,000 | £78,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.9L V6 Twin Turbo | 3.0L I6 Twin Turbo | 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo |
| Power | 444 bhp | 473 bhp | 503 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 4.1 seconds | 3.9 seconds | 4.0 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 30 mpg | 29 mpg | 27 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 505 litres | 500 litres | 490 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Quattro AWD, Virtual Cockpit, Sport exhaust | M xDrive AWD, M Drive modes, Carbon roof | 4MATIC+ AWD, AMG Performance exhaust, Track mode |
Is the Audi RS4 Avant Practical for Everyday Use?
For a supercar in estate clothing, the RS4 Avant is surprisingly practical for everyday use. The 505 litre boot easily swallows a weekly shop or holiday luggage for four people. The rear seats fold flat to create a massive load area when you need to transport larger items. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage spots for phones, drinks, and other daily essentials.
The RS4 works brilliantly as a family car for those with older children. While rear seat space is adequate rather than generous, it’s perfectly usable for most journeys. The low loading lip makes it easy to load heavy items into the boot. For couples or small families who want the ultimate blend of performance and practicality, few cars can match what the RS4 Avant offers. It’s a proper used Audi that can handle school runs and track days with equal ease.
“Absolutely incredible machine that never fails to put a smile on my face. The acceleration is addictive and the build quality is faultless. Running costs are high but worth every penny for the sheer joy it brings to every journey.” by Marcus Thompson
The Audi RS4 Avant stands as the ultimate performance estate, combining blistering acceleration with impressive practicality. It wraps supercar performance, luxury appointments, and cutting edge technology into a package that works brilliantly for everyday life. The twin turbo V6 engine and quattro all wheel drive system deliver exceptional capability in all conditions.
You choose the RS4 Avant because you refuse to compromise between performance and practicality. Its stunning looks, incredible speed, and family friendly space make it a uniquely appealing proposition. It’s perfectly suited for enthusiasts who need a car that can handle both weekend adventures and daily responsibilities. If you’re looking for an estate that offers genuine supercar thrills, the RS4 Avant should be at the top of your list, especially with cars under £50,000 offering excellent value.