Audi is bringing back the RS6 sedan, ending a 15-year absence since the C7 generation was discontinued in 2011. The move positions Audi to directly compete with rivals like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E63 in the high-performance executive car segment. Recent spy photos confirm the development of a camouflaged prototype undergoing road testing, showcasing the signature RS design cues.
Design and Aesthetics
The RS6 sedan prototype retains the aggressive styling elements familiar from the Avant variant. Key features include a more dynamic front bumper, wider fenders, sharper side skirts, and a deeper rear apron housing the iconic dual oval exhaust outlets. In line with Audi Sport’s understated approach, the rear features a subtle lip spoiler instead of a more ostentatious wing. Unlike some competitors, Audi has prioritized seamless integration, with RS-specific rear doors designed to match the muscular fender lines and integrated vents on the front fenders. The prototype rides on five-spoke alloy wheels and sits lower than the standard A6, hinting at the substantial power beneath the surface.
Powertrain and Platform
The new RS6 sedan will be built on Audi’s Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture, with chassis revisions from Audi Sport engineers. Initial speculation suggested a plug-in hybrid V6 powertrain, but recent reports indicate a potential return of the twin-turbo V8 in a plug-in hybrid configuration. The anticipated output exceeds 700 horsepower (522 kW / 710 PS).
Electric Variant Cancellation
Audi had been testing fully electric RS6 E-Tron prototypes in Sportback and Avant forms, but these plans have reportedly been scrapped. The combustion-powered variant will be the sole offering for this generation.
Historical Context
Audi previously offered sedan versions of the RS6 in the C5 and C6 generations, but the C7 and C8 models were exclusively available as Avants. The expanded lineup of the C9 generation, mirroring the smaller RS5, demonstrates Audi’s direct targeting of BMW M models.
Market Availability
There is no confirmed release date or word on whether the RS6 sedan will be available in North America. However, industry analysts predict a likely debut sometime next year as a 2027 model.
The revival of the RS6 sedan marks a strategic move by Audi to reclaim market share in the high-performance luxury segment. By reintroducing a sedan variant, Audi is directly challenging BMW and Mercedes-AMG, offering customers a broader range of choices within its high-performance lineup
