Audi RS4 Avant

A power struggle between the big three German motor manufacturers gave rise to the incredible RS4 in 2006. The previous generation of the flagship A4 had picked up where the old RS2 left off, and was only available as a practical Avant estate.

With a 375bhp 2.7-litre bi-turbo V6 engine, this model had kept Audi at the top of the performance load-carrier class – but when production came to an end in 2001, RS4 fans faced a five-year wait for its replacement.

It was worth it, though, because this car saw the RS4 come of age. Offered in saloon, Avant and Cabriolet bodystyles, it had a spec sheet to make its competitors tremble.

The centrepiece of the newcomer was a mighty 4.2-litre V8 that produced 414bhp and a muscular 430Nm of torque. Bulging wheelarches leave you in no doubt about its potential, although these are blended with tidy detailing to provide a well judged mixture of aggression and subtlety for which modern Audis are now famous. And from behind the wheel, it’s easy to see why this car features in our greatest quattros line-up.

The beautiful flat-bottomed leather steering wheel, figure-hugging sports seats and perfect driving position make the cabin feel genuinely special, while the throaty rumble of the V8 sets the RS4 apart. In terms of driver involvement, it remains one of the best quattro models ever – the sharp handling, agility and breathtaking traction made it a stern rival to the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG. Despite excellent body control, there’s a suppleness to the suspension that means the Audi isn’t as hard to live with as you might expect. Hi-tech options included ceramic brakes, while the standard Sport button sharpened the throttle response and improved the wonderful exhaust note.

If production hadn’t ceased last year, the car would still be vying for class honours in this ultra-competitive sector. And that’s why we can’t wait to find out what an RS4 version of the latest A4 will have to offer!

Details

WHY: Supercar performance from an estate!