Audi has quietly let loose its big gun on the South African market. Introducing the mighty RS6 Avant.

The RS6 Avant is an absolute brute of a family wagon, capable of matching sports cars for pace, all whilst terrifying your dog and kids in the back.

This latest variant actually has a little less power than its predecessor but has more torque. The previous 5-Litre V10 Biturbo has been scrapped along with its 426 kW. Under the bonnet is a 4-Litre V8 turbo that still manages a lofty 412 kW combined with 700 Nm of torque. 100kph is dispatched in 3.9 seconds and the eight-speed tiptronic gearbox will send it to a top speed of 305kph. That’s if you opt for the dynamic plus package that disregards the standard 250kph limiter.

In order to make the RS6 go around corners in an exciting manner, Audi has fitted the RS6 Avant with self-locking differential. This allows torque to be sent to whichever axle best promotes dynamic handling. This works in tandem with the Drive Select button that adapts the air suspension depending on the driver’s desires.

The RS6 Avant is distinctive from the outside, especially with its wider front track and 21-inch rims. The wheel arches are flared for presence, the front and rear bumpers are RS model specific and the exhaust tips are brushed in aluminium.

The RS6 Avant still has to work as a station wagon so in standard form it has a boot space of 565-Litres. Fold the back seats down and that space expands to 1 680litres.The optional dynamic package plus includes ceramic brakes, top speed of 305kph, dynamic steering, matrix beam headlights and sports suspension plus with DRC. There are also a wide range of driver assistance systems available, including adaptive cruise control with stop & go function. Blind spot monitoring and active lane assist, which prevents unintended lane changes.

RS6 Avant Price in South Africa

Seeing as this is a full blown RS model, it’s likely to break the bank. In standard form it costs R1465000 and comes with a 5 year/100 000km Freeway Plan.