The 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant high-performance wagon is here in the United States market. The RS 6 brings performance with a top speed of 190 mph (when properly equipped), a body that's 1.6 inches wider than the A6 wagon it's based on, twin-turbocharged V8 engine, and thrilling driving dynamics.
It features an adaptive air suspension with controlled damping and customizable drive modes, as well as standard all-wheel steering.
There's only one model in the range: the RS 6 Avant. Pricing starts at $109,995 including destination.
The Audi RS 6 features a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. It boasts of 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, and is capable of moving the RS 6 from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.
Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system is standard, and power is sent to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RS gets fuel economy ratings of 15 miles per gallon city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 combined, according to the EPA.
The RS 6 is a wagon that offers seating for five passengers. Its cargo capacity has yet to be confirmed.
The RS 6 Avant comes standard with a surround-view camera system, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and front and rear parking sensors.
Surprisingly at this price point, the rest of the typical active safety features are extra-cost options. Checking the box for the $2,250 Driver Assistance Package brings adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and an intersection assist system. The $500 Audi Side Assist Package houses blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and vehicle exit warning.
The Audi RS 6 may lack some key safety features, but its connectivity is comprehensive.
Audi’s 12.3-inch virtual cockpit is standard alongside two central touchscreens: an 10.1-inch upper and an 8.6-inch lower display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, HD radio, satellite radio, and Bluetooth are included. Other standard features include a wireless phone charger, four USB ports, and a 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen audio system.
A 19-speaker Bang and Olufsen 3D advanced audio system is a $4,900 standalone option.
You don’t have to do much for yourself in the RS 6 Avant, with keyless start, stop, and entry standard alongside a hands-free power tailgate.
Four-zone automatic climate control complements heated and ventilated front seats with 14-way power and memory for the driver's seat. Occupants are also treated to a sunroof, Valcona leather upholstery with RS embossing, and a leatherette upper dashboard. The driver will appreciate the heated steering wheel and and power tilt-and-telescope steering column.
The exterior features LED headlights and taillights, 21-inch aluminum wheels, rain-sensing windshield wipers, matte aluminum trim, an RS honeycomb grille, RS oval exhaust outlets, and heated, power-folding, and auto-dimming side mirrors.
You can have red brake calipers with RS badging for $500, or opt for ceramic brakes. They're available in gray for $8,500 or red for $9,000, both of which raise the top speed to 190 mph.
The $2,500 Executive Package adds even more luxury, bringing heated rear seats, power soft-closing doors, a head-up display, and more leather on the instrument panel, door rails, door armrests, and center console.
It’s disappointing that adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist are optional on the expensive 2021 Audi RS 6, but it's hard to nitpick about the rest of its standard equipment list. For buyers seeking a wagon with performance, the RS 6 Avant should be on their list.
