Audi RS6 Avant

Audi RS6 Avant - The engine is based on the ones in the S6 and S8 sport sedans, but has been redeveloped with the twin turbos to ensure a constant stream of power over a broad engine speed range. In fact, the peak torque number is available from 1,500 to 6,250 rpm.

The RS6 Avant uses a six-speed tiptronic transmission that Audi says achieves 'exceptionally short shift times.' When foot finally goes to throttle, the RS6 Avant can move from 0-69 mph in just 4.6 seconds and has an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph.

In its basic setting, the Quattro all-wheel drive sends 60 percent of its power to the rear wheels and 40 percent to the front, giving the RS6 more sporty handling characteristics thanks to this rear-biased setup. The vehicle has a fully independent suspension that also leans far more toward the sporty side of things, while still giving passengers plenty of comfort for long journeys, Audi says.

A car with this kind of power needs equally powerful brakes, and Audi has things covered here as well. When drivers opt for the 20-inch wheels (19-inch come standard), they will also get ceramic brakes that have a 16.5-inch diameter at the front and 14.0-inches in the rear.

Though this obviously can be a very aggressive car on the road, Audi didn't want it to look the part. Though the front of the car features large air intakes, they're purely for function, the company says. It also has the same aluminum-look single-frame grille used on all vehicles in the RS family. The rear features an equally functional rear spoiler, wide, flared wheel arches and oval exhaust pipes. The wagon comes with the choice of three colours that are exclusive to the RS6 (Sepang blue, Monza silver, Monterrey green).

The RS6 is as much a sport car as it is a utility vehicle, with heated seats, Bose sound system, and 1,660 litres of cargo space.