The hi-po version of the Audi A6 Avant has been spotted testing on the Nürburgring. The third-gen RS6 should be good for around 540hp thanks to a new twin-turbo V8.
That’s actually down a bit on power compared to the astonishing Lamborghini-sourced V10 in the old RS6. When we drove that back in 2008 we said: “The power and the subsequent hit of adrenalin are insanely addictive in this car.”
We can only imagine Audi will be working hard to ensure none of that rush is lost in the new model, despite two less cylinders and a bit less power. Audi may continue to stick with a conventional torque-converter slushbox (8-speed) for the RS6 with concerns the 7-speed S tronic may not be able to handle the grunt expected.
It’s expected the RS6 will make an official appearance at the Paris Motor Show later in the year, before going on sale in 2013. It should pave the way for an RS7 Sportback sometime next year.
[Source: Car]