Key Takeaways
- The Audi RS6 e-tron spied in production form for the first time.
- Aggressive new looks include widened and vented fenders.
- Expected to have around 700 horsepower with release likely in 2026.
The new Audi RS6 e-tron has been captured while undergoing testing at the Nurburgring, and it’s the first time we’re seeing it with production bodywork – bodywork that represents a big departure from today’s C8 RS6 Avant. If this nomenclature seems incorrect, given that this is not a wagon, the discrepancy comes from the fact that Audi EVs will have even-numbered names from now on, while combustion-powered vehicles will use odd numbers. Most buyers won’t care too much about the name as long as the vehicle it describes is good, and from an aesthetics point of view, there’s no doubt that this new model moves Audi styling forward in a big way, integrating the same sort of design language seen on the all-new Q6 e-tron revealed last month.
Split Headlights And New Fascia
As an electric vehicle, the RS6 e-tron will have reduced cooling demands compared to today’s twin-turbo V8-powered wagon (and its RS7 Sportback sibling). Hence, the front end is blocked off, while the lower half of the front bumper retains inlets for radiators and other ancillaries. Wider sills, bulging fenders with the same vents first seen on the e-tron GT, a small front spoiler, an aggressive rear diffuser, and a subtle trunk lid spoiler confirm this is the hardcore RS model.
Related
Audi Reveals All-Electric Q6 e-tron And SQ6 e-tron With Up To 510-HP
After a long wait, Audi’s Q6 e-tron is finally here, and it looks ready to dominate the hotly contested electric luxury EV segment.
The taillights, like the headlights, have been restyled, but these present less of a departure from existing Audi styling than what we see on the front end. A closer look at the electric fastback’s profile reveals bigger brakes behind a mismatched (but very sporty) set of wheels. The design on the front is particularly aggressive, but there’s no guarantee that either will be offered in the final production version.
Rumored Power Outputs
The Audi A6 e-tron concept may give us some idea of what to expect. Revealed in 2021, this appeared on the Premium Platform Electric architecture with a 100 kWh battery and two motors for all-wheel drive. As a non-RS concept, it debuted with 469 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, but the production RS6 e-tron is expected to develop in the region of 700 hp. The A6 e-tron has been confirmed for a reveal this summer, likely alongside the S6 e-tron, and both should land in the US for the 2025 model year. But the RS version will likely arrive much later for the 2026 model year. If any new information comes to light, we’ll keep you updated.