Next-Gen Audi RS6 Avant Caught Testing at the Nurburgring, Appears to Be a PHEV

Next-Gen Audi RS6 Avant Caught Testing at the Nurburgring, Appears to Be a PHEV

      Stefan Baldauf/SB-Medien

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      Performance wagons are currently enjoying a surge in popularity, as evidenced by BMW’s booming sales of M5 Touring estates and the Audi RS6 Avant experiencing its best sales year to date. While it’s not surprising to see these German performance vehicles thrive internationally—Europe has always appreciated them—U.S. buyers are now also purchasing them in record numbers. Additionally, there’s more exciting news, as recent spy photos capture Audi testing the next-generation RS6 longroof at the Nurburgring, sporting significant center-exit exhaust pipes. Here’s why that’s more significant than it appears.

      There was a period when we assumed the upcoming RS6 Avant would be solely electric, but that is clearly not the case. In June, we reported that Audi would likely opt for a plug-in hybrid version of its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 instead. Indications suggest this remains accurate, as the noted exhaust setup is paired with a high-voltage sticker on the windshield, similar to those seen on other testing PHEVs.

      Stefan Baldauf/SB-Medien

      I can only speculate on the power output of this vehicle, but it’s expected to exceed the current non-hybrid model. Even in its present form, it boasts 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. While this is purely conjectural, an output of 650 hp or more seems plausible.

      The camouflage on this Audi is so dense that it’s challenging to discern many specifics. From a rear three-quarter perspective, the taillights appear to be more bracket-shaped compared to those on the existing RS6. There are also some front fender vents absent from the current model. The vehicle maintains its wide stance, large wheels, and the body kit mirrors the familiar ground effects associated with the Avant.

      Stefan Baldauf/SB-Medien

      The holes cut into the camouflaged front bumper seem to indicate substantial intercoolers for the turbochargers. Interestingly, the lower grille only has two openings, shifted towards the passenger side. I don’t believe there’s much significance here. However, if you glance behind the windshield, you’ll notice a flat-bottom steering wheel during turns, alongside a flared upper dashboard that looks significantly different from the existing model. It’s safe to assume it will feature multiple screens, with the passenger likely receiving a smaller display similar to what we observe in the 2026 A6.

      Everything appears to be progressing well with the new large-body Avant. I can’t wait for someone to hand me the keys.

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Next-Gen Audi RS6 Avant Caught Testing at the Nurburgring, Appears to Be a PHEV

It features a set of wide, center-exit exhaust pipes and a high-voltage decal on the windshield, suggesting that this performance wagon will be significantly more powerful than the current generation.