Something Strange Is Happening To The Next-Gen Audi RS6

The Audi RS6 Avant is one of the most desirable cars in Ingolstadt’s lineup. The V8-powered wagon is all things to all people: fast, handsome, luxurious, and discreet; there are few things the RS6 can do. But it seems the beloved Audi will morph into something entirely different in the new generation, as the latest spy shots suggest. That’s because the RS6 nameplate will now be applied to an EV for the first time. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean the combustion RS6 is dead.

Caught testing in the snow-covered Alps, the heavily camouflaged Audi looks very similar to the upcoming A6 e-tron that we spied testing a few years ago. Because of the disguise, it’s hard to see any new details, but if you look closely, some tell-tale signs show this is no ordinary executive sedan.

Aggressive Styling, Bigger Brakes

The prototype seen here has aggressive-looking flared fenders, a staple of the RS6 lineup since the C5 generation debuted in 2002. Tucked beneath those muscular arches are black-painted wheels with an intricate design. They look good, but whether they will be offered on the production model remains to be seen. If so, we assume the design aids aerodynamic performance and conserves range while cooling the brakes.

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Speaking of the brakes, it would appear the test unit has been equipped with an uprated system comprising larger drilled discs and black calipers. Compared to the A6 e-tron prototype, the electric RS6 sedan spotted here has a sportier front fascia, which will presumably have larger faux intakes for a more menacing look. Once some of the camouflage is removed, we’ll get a better idea of the final design. Like the rest of Audi’s contemporary offerings, the RS6 sedan will receive a light bar at the rear, while the front end will receive a split-headlight design, as worn by the Q6 e-tron SUV.

What We Know So Far

Audi has already confirmed that the A6 e-tron will be underpinned by the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. Therefore, it’s safe to assume the electric RS6 and the S6 would be built on the same platform. Not much is known at this point, but it’s worth noting that the A6 e-tron concept had a 100 kWh battery that delivered an estimated range of 435 miles (on the WLTP cycle). Audi claims the concept has 469 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in less than four seconds. If so, we expect the RS6 to deliver mind-blowing performance – reports suggest the newcomer can produce as much as 800 hp. We’ve seen this same platform produce 630 hp in the Macan Turbo Electric, but we’re sure there’s more in reserve.

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Audi’s sporty EV could be a game changer.

While many will lament the loss of the gas-powered RS6, there’s a glimmer of hope. Remember, Audi has adopted a new naming system for its vehicles. Even numbers will identify EVs, whereas ICE-powered cars will take on an odd number. That means the gas-powered RS6 could live on as an RS7 Avant. The next-generation RS7 is rumored to arrive with an electrified V8 engine producing around 700 hp. So, when can we expect the new RS6 to appear? The A6 e-tron is expected to be unveiled before the end of this year, which means the high-performance version could follow a few months later.