Why The 2008 Audi RS6 Avant Was The Ultimate V10 Sports Wagon
The Audi RS6 C6 Avant has to be one of the most outrageous wagons to roll out of the German factory. Boasting supercar levels of performance, the family-friendly super wagon caused shockwaves in the automotive world upon its release. Indeed, the talking point was the mighty V10 engine shoehorned under the hood derived from the amazing Lamborghini Gallardo. It’s true to say, Audi had taken its RS product to another level.
Indeed, when Audi unveiled the second-generation RS6 in 2008, it became the fastest-production station wagon in the world. What’s more, it upstaged its German rivals at the time, immediately relegating the BMW M5 E61 and Mercedes E63 AMG to second place. Furthermore, Audi’s rapid wagon offered Quattro all-wheel drive, a modified sports suspension, aggressive styling, and superb practicality in one quality package.
Although a sedan version was available, the station wagon was the more desirable of the two. Audi built 8000 examples over three years, of which 6500 were the Avant wagons, ending production in 2010. Sadly, the RS6 was not sold to the North American market. Undoubtedly, the Audi RS6 C6 generation was an impressive engineering achievement and is now regarded as a modern classic. According to classic.com, the price of a 2009 example RS6 is around the $22,000 mark. Astonishing when you consider its performance potential. What’s more surprising, is that back in 2009, a new RS6 from the showroom would have set you back $160,000!
The RS6 Wagon Had A Lamborghini V10 Powerplant
No doubt, the RS6 engine is a masterpiece. It’s the detuned version of the unit found in the Lamborghini Gallardo, shared also with Audis flagship S8 and supercar R8. The outrageous 5.0-liter V10 powerplant in the RS6, however, has 400 unique parts fitted, including twin turbochargers. What’s more, this V10 beast needs seven radiators and four electric cooling fans.
The muscular engine churns out an astonishing 579 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. That’s more power output than a BMW M5 E61 Touring and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon. Furthermore, the RS6 comes with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, with paddle shifts, that sends power to the Quattro permanent four-wheel drive system, with 60% of torque split to the rear and 40% to the front.
The RS6 also features an air suspension system that comes standard and huge brake discs with six-pot calipers providing immense stopping power. Ceramic brakes remained an expensive option.
Despite its family-friendly appearance, the supercar performance comes with super high costs. Indeed, buyers should be aware that running and maintaining an RS6 V10 can be shockingly expensive. In addition, the fuel economy is unimpressive, averaging 16 mpg at best.
The Understated Design Of The RS6 Avant Made It The Ultimate Sleeper
The understated design of the 2008 RS6 Avant almost makes it the ultimate wolf in sheep’s clothing. The RS6 badges around the car set it off subtly. Indeed, the most conspicuous feature of the RS6 is its unique, flared fenders, reminiscent of the UR Audi Quattro rally car, and gives the station wagon a muscular stance. Moreover, the front fenders and hood are lightweight aluminum. In addition, the huge signature twin oval tailpipes at the rear have become synonymous with all RS vehicles.
The stunning 19-inch wheels complete the package with 275-section tires. Massive 20-inch alloys were also an option.
The RS6 Avant Came With A High Quality Luxury Cabin
Inside the cabin of the RS6, very little distinguishes it from the standard S6, which is no bad thing. There is, however, carbon fiber trim on the center console and doors, brushed chrome switches, and aluminum pedals. As you expect from the German automaker, the cabin of the RS6 Avant is very well-built with the use of high-quality materials, as well as boasting excellent driver ergonomics. Moreover, the Germanic cabin comes equipped with all the bells and whistles, including fully electric leather Recaro sports seats with RS6 logos embossed on the backrests. Behind the chunky flat-bottomed steering wheel, the bespoke analog dials feature a speedometer that displays 200 mph and a rev counter etched with the RS6 emblem.
It’s A Station Wagon That Thinks It’s A Supercar
Audi’s supercar slayer is, no doubt, rapid yet incredibly practical. There’s a wonderful burble on start-up from the V10, though becomes somewhat muted whilst driving. Not the screaming Lamborghini V10 noise that one expects, more of a deep roar of thunder. What’s more, the effortless acceleration can easily embarrass supercars setting off at the traffic lights. The super station wagon takes just 4.6 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standing start, making it one of the fastest Audi’s ever produced, capable of easily hitting a top speed of 180 mph, with the limiter removed of course!
Indeed, the relentless surge of power is remarkable. Thanks to the Quattro all-wheel drive and dynamic ride control, it’s surprisingly agile too for a station wagon that weighs 4464 lbs. It’s true to say, the RS6 has a split personality, with a huge amount of power on reserve.
Moreover, the incredible power makes the RS6 quicker than many contemporary rivals. It’s also well-balanced with decent levels of grip, enabling it to charge out of each corner. However, many will argue its steering feel and handling lacks the finesse of the BMW M5 E61 Touring. Despite its brutal acceleration and all-wheel drive system, the RS6 struggles with its mass up front as it reaches the limits of adhesion, resulting in unexpected understeer.
However, boasting better reliability than its Bavarian counterpart, more power, and all-weather cross-country ability, the spectacular Audi RS6 is the victor of the German super wagons.
