Audi RS 6 Avant: first plug-in hybrid prototypes spotted

The Audi RS 6 e-tron, the all-electric version of Audi’s most muscular estate, appears to have been cancelled. Although the German manufacturer has yet to address the reports, internal sources have confirmed that there is limited market demand for this type of model.

However, RS 6 Avant fans need not be discouraged. While the electric derivative has reportedly been dropped, the combustion-engined RS 6 remains part of the plan - albeit with one major new feature - and the first development prototypes have now been spotted.

The first plug-in hybrid RS 6

The headline change for the next Audi RS 6 Avant will be the introduction of plug-in hybrid power for the first time, following the lead of its BMW M5 Touring rival.

Audi’s sportiest estate will therefore combine the “forces” of electric motors - although their number is not yet known - with a substantial twin-turbo V8. Combined output is expected to reach at least 700 hp, putting it close to the 727 hp produced by its Munich-based rival.

The system is thought to be similar to those used in other Volkswagen Group models, including the Lamborghini Urus SE, Porsche Panamera Turbo S and Bentley Continental GT.

For comparison, the new Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid uses a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 600 hp and 800 Nm, alongside a 140 kW (190 hp) electric motor delivering 450 Nm, resulting in a combined output of 782 hp 1000 Nm. In the Lamborghini Urus SE, output rises to 799 hp.

The battery, however, is shared by all these models. It has a capacity of 25.9 kWh and provides up to 85 km of all-electric range on the combined WLTP cycle.

Two enormous exhaust outlets

Any remaining doubt that this is the forthcoming combustion-powered Audi RS 6 Avant is immediately dispelled by its rear end. The huge oval exhaust outlets, a familiar feature of every RS model from the Ingolstadt brand, clearly identify it as the most extreme A6 variant. Their more central positioning than usual is also new.

They are joined by a bespoke bumper with a more aggressive and functional design, while the light clusters, though still concealed beneath camouflage, appear to be linked by a full-width light bar, as on the “standard” A6 Avant.

Changes at the front are just as apparent. The side air intakes are larger, while the grille has been reshaped with a diamond-pattern finish. Viewed from the side, the revisions are more discreet, with more pronounced side skirts and air outlets in the front wings providing the main visual cues.

The cabin of Audi’s sportiest estate has not yet been shown, but it is expected to use the same technology as the “standard” versions.

As a result, it should feature an 11.9-inch digital instrument display, a 14.5-inch infotainment system and, optionally, a 10.9-inch screen for the front passenger. The materials, trim finishes and seats, meanwhile, are expected to be specific to this RS version.

When will it arrive?

The new Audi RS 6 Avant does not yet have a confirmed unveiling date, but it is expected to arrive towards the end of this year or at the beginning of 2026. Before then, further details are likely to emerge about what will probably be the most powerful Audi RS 6 Avant ever.