For those in the know, wagons represent the perfect blend of practicality and driving pleasure, ditching unnecessary pretension for genuine capability. And then there are wagons that transcend mere utility, achieving a level of raw, undeniable coolness that appeals to everyone. The 2023 Rs6 Avant firmly plants itself in this latter category.
Audi’s history in the U.S. with their coveted RS models has been somewhat restrained. We’ve seen glimpses of the RS 3 and RS 5, a fleeting RS 6 sedan back in 2003, but never the wagon, until recently. If you missed the memo amidst the global shifts of recent years, the RS 6 Avant made a triumphant return to the American market in 2021, exclusively as a wagon. Now, the 2023 RS6 Avant continues this legacy, offering an exceptional blend of power and practicality.
It’s never too late to appreciate automotive brilliance, and the 2023 RS6 Avant is undoubtedly special. Under the hood lies a beastly twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, unleashing a staggering 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse transforms the wagon from a family hauler into a genuine performance machine.
At the track, the 2023 RS6 Avant demonstrated controlled aggression off the line, prioritizing grip for drama-free launches. Once underway, the full force of the V8 surged forward, propelling the car to 60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds. For those craving even more, a performance upgrade is on the horizon for the ’24 model year, promising an additional 30 horsepower and a further reduction in acceleration times.
We found ourselves thoroughly impressed by the raw, visceral power delivered by the traditional combustion engine of the 2023 RS6. In an era increasingly dominated by electric powertrains, the RS6 serves as a potent reminder of the thrill and sensory experience unique to a high-performance V8. It’s a celebration of mechanical engineering and explosive power, a refreshing contrast to the often-clinical efficiency of electric alternatives.
The auditory experience is integral to this thrill, and the V8 in the 2023 RS6 delivers a captivating soundtrack, both inside and outside the cabin. The 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission seamlessly manages the power, offering near-instantaneous gear changes with a remarkably smooth overall operation. In quarter-mile testing, the RS6 clocked an impressive 11.6 seconds at 120 mph.
Despite its substantial weight of nearly 5,000 lbs, the 2023 RS6 defies expectations on the handling course. It exhibits surprising nimbleness and agility, feeling significantly lighter than many performance SUVs in its weight class. Advanced technologies such as torque vectoring, a rear sport differential, and four-wheel steering contribute to this remarkable agility. Turn-in is sharp and responsive, with understeer virtually eliminated. The steering provides quick responses with ample feedback, avoiding an overly assisted feel.
Braking performance is equally impressive, instilling confidence during high-speed deceleration. The RS6 stops from 60 mph in a mere 113 feet, demonstrating exceptional stability and stopping power.
Visually, the 2023 RS6 makes a bold statement. Its lowered stance and aggressively flared wheel arches, extending over 2 inches wider than the standard A6 sedan, immediately communicate its high-performance nature. While the RS6 Avant offers a unique blend of sportiness and practicality, Audi also continues to offer the A6-based Allroad wagon for those with different needs.
Stepping inside the 2023 RS6, you are greeted by Audi’s signature blend of cutting-edge technology and premium materials, elevated with a distinctly sporty ambiance. While touch panel controls may not appeal to everyone, the infotainment system, anchored by a user-friendly 10-inch touchscreen, proves intuitive to operate. Audi’s acclaimed 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, enhanced with exclusive RS-specific displays and programming, remains a standout feature.
The interior is further refined with Alcantara and microfiber accents, complemented by vibrant color stitching and sport seats upholstered in quilted Valcona leather, reinforcing the RS lineage. Rear passenger space is generous, comfortably accommodating adults, and the cargo area boasts a substantial 30.0 cubic feet of storage.
Fuel economy for the 2023 RS6 is rated at 14 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. In real-world driving, we observed a respectable 19 mpg on premium fuel. However, the energy impact score reflects higher than average annual oil consumption and CO2 emissions, as expected for a high-performance vehicle.
The 2023 RS6 Avant enters a competitive segment of high-horsepower wagons, sharing the stage with formidable rivals from Mercedes-AMG and Porsche. All these contenders command six-figure price tags, with the RS6 Avant starting at $123,995.
In conclusion, the 2023 Audi RS6 Avant delivers the exhilarating performance of a sports sedan with the added versatility of an SUV, creating a driving experience that is genuinely smile-inducing. Its striking aesthetics further enhance its appeal. While some might perceive it as more extravagant than practical, this very blend of attributes is precisely what makes the 2023 RS6 Avant so utterly desirable.
Specifications
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Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
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Horsepower: 591
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0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
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60-0 Braking: 113 feet (avg)
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Transmission: 8-speed automatic
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Torque: 590 lb-ft.
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1/4 Mile: 11.6 seconds at 120 mph
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EPA: 14 City / 21 Highway / 17 Combined
