Audi RS6 Avant (2013-2018) review - Practicality, comfort and boot space

Ever since Audi revealed the Porsche-tuned RS2 Avant in 1994, it has been leading the way with its lightning-quick estate cars that match practicality with supercar performance, and this RS6 Avant is no exception. As it's based on the practical A6 Avant there's no shortage of space for luggage, while a deep glovebox, large door bins and an array of useful cubbies boost the Audi's family-friendly cabin.

There's no saloon option - you could consider the RS7 Sportback if you don't want an estate - and the RS6 is a full five-seater.

Size

The Audi RS6 Avant is a big car, measuring almost five metres nose-to-tail - very similar to the BMW 5 Series Touring. The Audi's 4,979mm length is matched by width of 1,936mm, so you might want to seek out the Parking Pack Advanced, which brings automated self-steering parking and an array of cameras for an all-round picture of your surroundings.

Leg room, head room & passenger space

Front seat comfort is exemplary in the Audi RS6 Avant, and rear passengers have plenty of room to lounge around too - although the large transmission tunnel gets in the way for passengers sitting in the middle seat.

Headroom in the rear is better than the A6 saloon, and there are Isofix child seat mounts fitted as standard.

Boot

While the RS6 Avant's 565-litre boot is roomy and well-shaped, it trails the Mercedes E63 Estate's spacious luggage area by a significant 130 litres. Folding the Audi's rear bench flat gives you a healthy 1,680-litre load space - although this is still 265 litres shy of the E63's. However, there is the option of a useful load-securing system, plus a standard-fit powered tailgate and handy netted storage bin.

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The Convenience Pack adds a reversible floor mat for the load bay plus a fixings set for the internal rail system with a telescopic pole and straps for dividing the luggage area. It also comes with a 'through load' facility in the seat back for longer items, complete with a removable ski bag.