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A "supercar" with space!
It has arrived. Audi's new RS6 with its twin-turbo V10 delivering a neck-snapping 426 kW and 650 Nm, transforming the normally sedate estate into a super car.
Linked to a six-speed tiptronic gearbox, this 5.0-litre V10 with TFSI catapults this car with a supercar-like 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.6 seconds. Top speed is governed at 250 km/h, although Audi modestly notes that this could be increased to 280 km/h.
The tiptronic system, with deliberately short gearing for more rapid acceleration, has a torque converter that operates in primarily in activated lock-up mode. And via its sophisticated hydraulics and management system, the gearbox adapts to individual driving styles.
And while the engine is based on the unit already at work in the S6 and S8 models, this V10 with FSI has been rejigged with the addition of two turbochargers. Equipped with this extra equipment, the RS6's powerplant's 650 Nm is available from 1 500 to 6 250 r/min, while peak power is on tap from 6 250 r/min right until the 6 700-r/min red line.
Audi quotes a standard fuel economy figure of 14 l/100 km.
Regarded by its manufacturer as being the "ideal sports engine", the 90-degree V10 has fewer components, is lighter and more compact at a length of 560 mm. The crankcase is constructed from a high-strength aluminium alloy using low-pressure die casting, which promises low weight (278 kg) with high strength properties.
Equipped with FSI direct fuel injection, the common rail injection system injects fuel into the combustion chambers at a pressure of 120 bar.
Stickiness guaranteed
As expected on all performance Audis, quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard on this model. A Torsen centre differential distributes the torque with a 40/60 bias to the rear wheels in regular mode. Depending on the road conditions, up to 65- and 85% can be distributed to the front and rear axles, respectively.
RS6 Avant rides on a sports suspension with dynamic ride control (DRC) controlling the shock absorber settings, and an optional sports suspension plus allows damping characteristics to be set at three different levels to cater to varied driving conditions.
The car comes standard with 19-inch aluminium wheels and performance brakes, while 20-inchers and ceramic brake discs are available as an option.
Where its styling is concerned, air intakes have been enlarged to ensure the engine and two turbochargers have sufficient breathing space. Audi's signature single-frame grille is finished in a high-gloss black finish emblazoned with the RS6 logo.
Following the current Audi convention, a strip of LED daytime running lights are incorporated into the light clusters. The bonnet cover and front fenders are fashioned from aluminium to reduce the car's weight.
Flared wheel arches and prominent side sills accentuate the estate's profile.
The rear is dominated by four large tailpipes. A roof spoiler and LED taillights are visible, too.
Its interior is awash with carbon fibre, aluminium, leather and Alcantara finishes and an array of RS-specific equipment.
Bad news for local fans is that the RS6 Avant will not be coming to South Africa, although a sedan version is expected to make its local appearance in the second half of this year.
