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
4.7
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 RS6 Avant might be exactly what you need. This high performance estate delivers explosive power wrapped in a sophisticated package that can haul the family shopping one day and embarrass supercars the next. It’s the ultimate sleeper car for those who want maximum capability without compromise.
From the moment you see its muscular stance and hear that distinctive twin turbo V8 rumble, you know this isn’t just another executive estate. The RS6 stands apart from rivals like the Mercedes E63 S Estate and BMW M5 Touring with its perfect blend of aggression and refinement. The wide arches, massive brakes, and aggressive front grille hint at the serious performance lurking beneath its civilised exterior. This is a car that commands respect on both the school run and the race track.
Driving the RS6 is an intoxicating experience that redefines what an estate car can be. The twin turbo V8 delivers crushing acceleration while the sophisticated all wheel drive system ensures you can use every horsepower safely. It handles with the precision of a sports car but rides with the comfort expected from a premium Audi. While the price tag reflects its exclusive nature, you’re investing in one of the most capable and desirable performance cars money can buy. The RS6 proves that you really can have it all.
How Does the Audi RS6 Drive?
The Audi RS6 is designed to be devastatingly fast while remaining completely usable every day. The twin turbocharged 4.0 litre V8 engine produces around 600 horsepower in standard form, catapulting this performance estate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. That’s genuine supercar territory from a car that can carry five passengers and their luggage. The eight speed automatic gearbox shifts with lightning precision, while the quattro all wheel drive system ensures maximum traction in all conditions.
Where the RS6 truly excels is in its remarkable dual personality. At low speeds it’s refined and comfortable, with the air suspension soaking up bumps and imperfections. Press the throttle and it transforms into a wild beast, with exhaust pops and crackles that announce your arrival from miles away. The adaptive dampers and dynamic ride control keep everything composed even at serious speeds. This makes it incredibly confidence inspiring whether you’re overtaking on country roads or enjoying some spirited driving on track days.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
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Power Output
600 bhp
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0-60 mph
3.6 seconds
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MPG Combined
22 - 25 mpg
- Boot Space
- 565 litres
- Safety Rating
- (Euro NCAP)
Audi RS6 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review
Step inside the RS6 and you’re greeted by one of the finest interiors in the automotive world. The cabin blends luxury with purposeful sportiness perfectly. The diamond quilted Nappa leather seats are supremely comfortable and supportive, holding you securely during enthusiastic driving while remaining comfortable on long journeys. The build quality is exceptional throughout, with premium materials and precise assembly that justifies the substantial price tag.
The technology package is comprehensive and cutting edge. The dual touchscreen setup controls everything from climate to navigation with intuitive ease. The Virtual Cockpit display is crisp and customisable, while the Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers concert hall acoustics. Despite its performance focus, the RS6 remains impressively refined. Wind and road noise are well suppressed, making it a relaxing long distance cruiser. The rear seats offer generous space for adults, while the panoramic sunroof adds to the airy, premium atmosphere.
The Audi RS6 Avant represents automotive perfection for those seeking the ultimate do everything car. It successfully combines face melting performance with genuine everyday usability in a way few cars can match. The build quality, interior luxury, and technological sophistication are exemplary, creating a driving experience that feels special every single time. The sound of that V8 engine alone is worth the price of admission for enthusiasts. The main considerations are the substantial running costs and eye watering purchase price. Fuel consumption is predictably heavy, and insurance costs will be significant. However, for those who can afford it, the RS6 offers an uncompromising blend of capabilities that makes it genuinely irreplaceable. It’s the perfect choice for successful professionals who refuse to compromise between practicality and performance. The RS6 proves that having a family doesn’t mean giving up your automotive dreams.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Audi RS6?
As you’d expect from a high performance luxury car, the RS6 comes with premium running costs. Fuel economy hovers around 22 to 25 mpg in real world conditions, though this can drop dramatically if you enjoy using the full performance potential. Insurance costs will be high due to the power and desirability factor. The initial purchase price places it firmly in luxury territory, competing with some of the world’s most expensive performance cars.
However, the RS6 holds its value remarkably well thanks to its exclusivity and desirability. Audi’s reputation for build quality means reliability is generally good, though servicing costs at main dealers reflect the complex engineering involved. For those considering car finance, the strong residual values help keep monthly payments manageable relative to the car’s capabilities. The combination of performance, practicality, and prestige makes it a sound investment for those who can afford the running costs.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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audi rs6
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Mercedes E63 S Estate
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BMW M5 Touring
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £95,000 | £98,000 | £94,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Power | 600 bhp | 612 bhp | 625 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 seconds | 3.4 seconds | 3.6 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 23 mpg | 24 mpg | 22 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 565 litres | 640 litres | 560 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Quattro AWD, Air suspension, Premium interior | AMG Performance, Larger boot, Drift mode | M xDrive, Carbon fibre trim, Track modes |
Is the Audi RS6 Practical for Everyday Use?
For a car with supercar rivalling performance, the RS6 is surprisingly practical for everyday use. The 565 litre boot easily swallows family luggage, golf clubs, or weekly shopping trips. The rear seats fold flat to create an enormous load space when needed, making it genuinely useful for larger items. The wide opening tailgate and low loading lip make accessing the cargo area effortless, while numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin keep smaller items organised.
Where the RS6 particularly excels is as a family car that happens to be devastatingly quick. Five adults can travel in genuine comfort, while the smooth ride quality keeps everyone happy on longer journeys. For buyers considering other used Audi cars, the RS6 represents the ultimate expression of the brand’s ability to combine luxury, performance, and practicality. Its compact dimensions compared to large SUVs make it easier to park and manoeuvre in urban environments, while the performance potential ensures it never feels boring or mundane.
“Absolutely incredible machine that does everything perfectly. The performance is mind blowing but it’s so easy to drive daily. My wife loves it for the school run and I love it for everything else. Running costs are high but totally worth it for this level of capability.” by James Mitchell
The Audi RS6 Avant stands as the ultimate expression of the modern performance car. It packages genuine supercar performance, luxury car refinement, and practical estate versatility into one extraordinary machine. While the substantial price tag and running costs mean it’s not for everyone, those who can stretch to RS6 ownership are rewarded with one of the most complete cars ever built. Its ability to seamlessly switch between comfortable family transport and track destroying weapon is simply unmatched.
You choose the RS6 because you want the absolute best without compromise. Its combination of devastating performance, everyday usability, and luxury appointments makes every journey special. Whether you’re collecting the kids from school or enjoying some serious driving on your favourite roads, the RS6 delivers an experience that few cars can match. For those seeking the ultimate one car garage solution, especially when considering cars under £100,000, the RS6 Avant should be at the very top of your list.