New Audi RS4 Avant with 330kW revealed for 2012

The legend returns: this is the brand-new 2012 Audi RS4 Avant. Launching at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the new RS4 estate is powered by a 330kW 4.2-litre V8 and goes 0-100km/h in just 4.7 seconds.

The previous generation Audi RS4 is widely regarded as one of the best super saloons ever, easily going toe-to-toe with the BMW M3 and the Mercedes C63 AMG. We're hoping the new one will prove a proper return to form for Audi, after the slightly lacklustre RS5.

Rolling on 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels as standard (20s are optional) and packing a modern interpretation of the squared-off wheel arches of quattro legend, the RS4 certainly looks the part.

Check the chiselled bumpers, the front splitter, the honeycomb grille and the matte aluminium detailing. Substantial LED daytime running lights enclose "xenon plus" headlamps and are complemented by LED taillights at the rear, where you'll also find the traditional pair of RS oval tailpipes.

Like every RS Audi the RS4 has quattro four-wheel drive, complete with lightweight "crown-gear" centre differential that can send up to 70% of that 450hp to the front wheels and as much as 85% to the rear.