2017 Frankfurt Motor Show: Audi RS4 Avant returns with 331kW 2.9-litre V6

AN ALL new Audi RS4 Avant is upon us, bringing with it 331kW and 600Nm of twin-turbo V6 power.

This is the fourth generation for Audi’s RS4 family, and harks back to the legendary RS2 estate.

The new RS is 30mm wider than the standard A4 Avant, with the typical sporty styling garnishes added.

Gone is the old 4.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 of the previous generation. In its place is a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6, which has the same power figure as the old model, but with 170Nm more torque.

Impressively, peak torque is available from 1900rpm all the way through to 5000rpm.

As is traditional with RS models, power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro system, this time through an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox.

The 0-100km/h sprint has been slashed to 4.1sec, with a claimed top speed of 250km/h, which can be increased to 280km/h with the optional RS dynamic package fitted.

Not only has the RS4 Avant been building muscle, it also lost weight, tipping the scales at 1790kg, 80kg less than the previous generation revealed in 2012 at Frankfurt.

The standard suspension on the RS4 means it sits 7mm lower than the basic A4 with sport suspension. An RS sport suspension plus package is available as an option, adding dynamic dampers, ceramic brakes, and RS-specific dynamic steering.

Audi claims the RS4 will sip fuel at an average of 8.8L/100km.

Inside the cabin there is RS sport seats, Audi’s virtual cockpit, and plenty of badging to remind you that this is the big daddy of the A4 family.

“The Audi RS4 Avant is our RS icon with an incomparable history,” Stephan Winkelmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport, said.

“In common with all our RS models, it blends immense power output with superlative everyday utility.”

Orders for the RS4 will open soon in Europe, with deliveries expected at the start of next year. Its base price overseas is $119,000.