Audi RS6
The most powerful production Audi ever belongs in this list for that reason alone
Meet the most powerful production Audi ever – for that reason alone, the latest RS6 merits a place in our greatest quattros line-up. But there’s more to this wolf in sheep’s clothing than sledgehammer performance.
The RS6 is available as a saloon or Avant estate, and with its impeccable cabin and superb refinement, it blends luxury with pace in one stunning package. Power comes from an incredible 5.0-litre twin-turbo V10 with 572bhp and 650Nm of torque – making the carrier the world’s fastest-accelerating estate car!
Its engine is a technological masterpiece. The mighty V10 is packaged so tightly under the bonnet that it needs seven separate radiators and four fans to stay cool. And to keep oil flow constant during hard cornering, it features the same kind of dry-sump lubrication found on racing cars.
Despite the RS6’s near-two-tonne kerbweight, performance is staggering and the brutal acceleration is even more astonishing because of the fuss-free way in which the power is delivered. Traction is unbreakable and stability at speed is rock solid. The clever 4WD provides a 40/60 split in torque towards the rear, which helps the car turn in positively, and the active dampers aid both ride quality and body control.
The six-speed auto box provides a distinctive warble on upshifts, while the V10’s subdued growl never lets you forget this is a very special machine. At £74,555, it comes at a price, but the RS6 offers incredible performance, refinement and quality – and proves you can wrap supercar pace in a spacious saloon or estate body.
Details
WHY: Twin-Turbo V10 gives massive performance with minimal effort
