Audi launches new RS 6 Avant and S3 Sportback

Audi has launched the new-generation RS 6 Avant and S3 Sportback in Germany and both high-performance models have now been confirmed for Australian release by the end of this year.

Due on sale here in November, the all-new RS 6 wagon will be priced around $230,000 plus on-road costs -- $30,000 less than the last RS 6 Avant, about 65 examples of which were sold here between late 2008 and 2010.

That makes it around the same price as BMW’s M5 sedan ($229,500) and about $20,000 cheaper than the facelifted Mercedes-Benz E 63 S AMG sedan ($249,900) also due here in the second half of 2013.

The RS 5 Cabriolet will be the next Audi hot-shoe to arrive (in July), but a successor for the previous RS 6 sedan, which was available here for about $252,000 during a similar period, is yet to be revealed.

Audi Australia has confirmed a high level of standard specifications for the RS 6, including a 360-degree camera, 20-inch wheels, carbon inlays, adaptive air suspension, digital TV + navigation plus and Audi connect features.

Options will include 21-inch wheels/tyres, Dynamic Ride Control and a ‘matt quattro’ styling package.

Audi Australia Managing Director Andrew Doyle said its new performance flagship said the RS 6’s supercar performance and large wagon practicality would be a winning formula.

“The all-new RS 6 Avant will be a very welcome addition to our high-performance vehicle line-up in Australia,” he said. “It will join the RS 4 Avant, the TT RS plus and the new R8 model – all of which have been introduced in the first quarter of this year to Australian audiences.

“Without a doubt, 2013 is a year when Audi will introduce a host of extreme performance vehicles to the Australian market. In addition to our RS 4 Avant, TT RS plus and R8, we will also be bringing the all new RS 5 Cabriolet in July.”

“There will be no shortage of choice from the Audi range for those dynamically-minded customers wanting to make the most of high-performance, combined with everyday driving capacity. This model will further cement our reputation as a manufacturer of the highest quality, sports vehicles.”

The new RS 6 Avant is powered by a 412kW/700Nm twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with cylinder-on-demand technology (replacing its forebear’s 5.0-litre V10), enabling it to hit 100km/h in a claimed 3.9 seconds and consume just 9.8L/100km.

The new S3 Sportback, meantime, is now confirmed for local release in December, followed by the all-new S3 sedan in the first quarter of next year.

Offering more performance and value than ever before, the third-generation S3 five-door will be priced between $65,000 and $70,000 plus on-road costs, undercutting the outgoing model ($71,200).

The second-generation S3 found almost 900 buyers in Australia between 2007 and 2012.

The new S3’s redesigned 2.0-litre TFSI turbo-four cranks out 221kW/380Nm and, driving through a quattro all-wheel drive system, can propel the 70kg-lighter hatchback to 100km/h in a claimed 5.1 seconds (manual) and 4.8 seconds (auto).

Mr Doyle confirmed both six-speed manual and S tronic dual-clutch transmissions will be available alongside a high level of standard equipment, with both transmissions offering improved fuel consumption of as low as 6.9L/100km.

“The new S3 Sportback is a truly responsive vehicle for those customers who want uncompromising quality, in a diminutive package,” said Mr Doyle.

“The S3 has all of the features of our much larger sports cars, yet its size and relatively light weight make it extremely nimble and fun to drive.

“We intend to add even more value to the package. It’s a highly competitive market place and we want the many Audi customers, both existing and new, to be delighted with their brand new S3 Sportback.”

Head over to our car reviews section to read our first drive reports of both models by the end of this week.

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