AUDI RS6 AVANT PERFORMANCE

Well-aimed dynamic tweaks tap into the hard-charging estate's potential

- MATT SAUNDERS

Something clearly changed at Audi Sport headquarters during the genesis of the current Audi RS6 Avant. Maybe some collective light bulb moment occurred over midnight oil and schnapps. Whatever the cause, it was evidently better understood than it ever had been what people really want from a fast estate car and how far the design and dynamic mission statement of this iconic, do-it-all, any-weather driver's car could be pushed as a result.

The blistered wheel arches, foursquare stance, voracious-looking grille and menacing rear diffuser of the current car, launched in 2019, told you as much. It had been realised that while RS6 buyers may feel they need space, versatility and Audi-brand on-board technology, they want something that feels much less tempered by everyday practicality. Something a little wild and unhinged.