Key Points
- Audi is working on a spicier derivative of the RS6 Avant, which could gain the “GT” suffix.
- The meaner derivative might coincide with a facelift for the standard RS6.
- There are quite a few changes to the prototype spotted at the Nordschleife, including a new front bumper with reshaped air intakes, bulging fenders with a vertical vent, and a new beefy spoiler derived from the wild 2020 RS6 GTO concept.
- It’s unclear how much extra oomph Audi will extract from the RS6 GT, but we’re not expecting a major jump in output.
- Both the RS6 GT and spicy RS3 are likely going to be high-priced, low-volume special editions.
Details
Audi is planning to introduce an even hotter variant of the RS6 Avant before transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) in 2026. This model, potentially named the RS6 GT, has been spotted undergoing testing at the Nürburgring.
The spy video reveals several changes compared to the standard RS6, including a new front bumper with reshaped air intakes, vertical vents on the bulging fenders, and a beefy rear spoiler derived from the RS6 GTO concept. The prototype also features large “Y” spoke wheels, similar to those found on the RS6 Performance.
Key features of the upcoming Audi RS6 GT
- New front bumper with reshaped air intakes
- Bulging fenders with a vertical vent
- New beefy spoiler derived from the wild 2020 RS6 GTO concept
- Massive wheels with a “Y” spoke design
- Full roll cage
- Possible increase in power over the standard RS6 Performance’s 621 horsepower
- High-priced, low-volume special edition
- One of the last hot ICE models to carry the Four Rings
RS6GT and RS6
While the interior changes are not expected to be significant, it is unlikely that the production model will retain the full roll cage seen in the spy video. The RS6 GT will likely be powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, similar to the RS6 Performance, which produces 621 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque. Although the exact power output for the RS6 GT is unknown, it is not expected to be a significant increase over the RS6 Performance.
Audi Sport boss Sebastian Grams has hinted at the possibility of a “more extreme” and “even stronger” RS6 model, suggesting that the RS6 GT may offer even higher performance and sharper dynamics. It is unclear if the release mentioned for 2024 refers to the RS6 GT or another RS model in Audi’s lineup, such as the RS3 Sportback/Sedan with an upgraded inline-five engine.
RS3
Both the RS6 GT and the spicier RS3 variant are expected to be high-priced, low-volume special editions. These models could be among the last high-performance internal combustion engine (ICE) cars from Audi, as the company is committed to transitioning to electric vehicles by 2026. The discontinuation of models like the TT RS and R8 has already signalled the beginning of the end for sporty gasoline cars in Audi’s lineup.
Conclusion
The upcoming Audi RS6 GT is shaping up to be a very special car. It will be more powerful, more aggressive, and more exclusive than the standard RS6. It will also be one of the last hot ICE models to carry the Four Rings. If you’re a fan of fast wagons, the RS6 GT is definitely one to watch.
Here are some of the reasons why we think the RS6 GT will be a special car:
- It will be more powerful than the standard RS6 Performance, which already makes 621 horsepower.
- The RS6 GT will have a more aggressive exterior design, with features like a new front bumper, bulging fenders, and a large rear spoiler.
- More track-focused interior, with fewer creature comforts and a more supportive driving position.
- It will be limited to a production run of just a few hundred units, making it a very exclusive car.
