EXCLUSIVE FIRST TIME SPY PHOTOS: New Audi RS6 Sedan

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TACH AUTO CENTRAL – February 17, 2008: One of the big unveilings at last September’s Frankfurt Motor Show was the Audi RS6 Avant. But since that time there’s been lots of speculation about a new RS6 Sedan.

The latest spy shots taken by Robert Sandseth in Scandinavia prove two things: first, that the new RS6 Sedan is on its way; second, that as some have opined, a new RS6 Sedan is Audi’s “worst kept secret.” Incidentally, considering that the car is badged in several places with an RS6 emblem, there really is no secret, except the actual date of dealer availability.

Decked out in black, the vehicle looks sleek and sexy, and with the twin spot lights mounted on top I’m reminded of a very funny gypsy taxi ride in Manhattan a few years back, when the taxi driver insisted on taking us through an impromptu tour of the city’s best hooker hideouts…but that’s a story best left for another occasion.

Scuttlebutt is that the RS6 Sedan will have a “Lamborghini” 550hp V10 power-plant and a six-speed tiptronic transmission.

The RS6 is, of course, based on the S6 (which is a heck of a lot like an A6, in terms of appearance), except for what looks like extra flared fenders.

Background on the S6

The Audi S6 is the sporty flagship model in the luxury-class A6 family. It makes maximum use of its resources: its newly developed V10 petrol engine with a displacement of 5.2 litres mobilises an output of 320 kW (435 bhp) and a torque of 540 Nm. Audi produces a saloon and Avant version of the S6.

Concept and design
Audi's distinctive brand of sporty and dynamic styling is already visible in the high-volume A6 model line. The S6 hones this visual impact with several details, without appearing aggressive. The single-frame grille features double aluminium-look vertical struts. Integrated in the bumper, five white LEDs on each side serve as daytime running lights and guarantee that the vehicle will be easily identified. Xenon plus headlights come as standard, the adaptive light high-end solution including dynamic cornering light function is available as an option.

The front wings are flared by 14 mm, the door trim strips are painted in the body colour. Aluminium-look exterior mirror housings and 19-inch wheels are further striking features. At the rear, the spoiler (a roof spoiler on the Avant), a colour-contrasting diffusor and four exhaust tailpipes ensure that this model cuts an impressive figure from behind too.

The S-specific features add a few choice highlights to the elegant interior too. The front sports seats have integral head restraints. They are covered in leather and Alcantara – or optionally in leather only – and are heated with multi-way electrical adjustment. Carbon trim inserts, an aluminium-look finish and the "Flexmetallic" material on the instrument panel instil a sense of sheer elegance. The instruments have grey dials and white needles in the Audi S6 style.

The powerful S6 boasts luxurious equipment. The MMI operating system incorporates an audio system with a dual tuner and digital sound system. An anti-theft system, cruise control and deluxe automatic air conditioning plus are also standard items. On long journeys in particular, the driver and passengers in the S6 benefit from its superior refinement and ultimate operating convenience.