New Audi RS 6 Avant teased

The first glimpse of the all-new Audi RS 6 Avant has been released ahead of the supercar-hustling wagon's launch at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

Based on the fifth-generation C8-series Audi A6 Avant wagon, the next RS 6 migrates from the MLB platform to the car-maker's latest MLBevo architecture that will allow the RS 6 to use a mild-hybrid version of its current twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.

Audi Sport posted the shadowy pic that reveals only its new tail-light design, but hasn't said how much power it will produce. However, expect at least 450kW in standard form, while the RS 6 Plus version is expected to come with 700bhp (522kW).

With that level of performance, plus Audi's all-wheel drive quattro and a faster-shifting dual-clutch automatic transmission with launch control, we expect the new RS 6 to post a 0-100km/h acceleration time of less than 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 320km/h without its standard 250km/h limiter in place.

Compared with the standard A6 Avant, the Audi Sport-honed RS 6 will come with a redesigned front bumper, wider wheel-arches and large alloy rims, plus a working rear diffuser and rear spoiler to ensure the fast wagon is stable at its extremely high top speed.

Inside, the RS 6 will be business as usual, getting a pair of heavily bolstered sport seats and a flat-bottom sports steering wheel trimmed in leather and Alcantara. Instead of wood or brushed stainless steel, expect the fastest (and most expensive) Audi wagon's cabin to be dressed in acres of glossy carbon-fibre.

Concerns about the new RS 6's availability in Australia arose last year with the news that the new Audi A6 would only be offered to here as a sedan following the sales decline of wagons Down Under.

Luckily for performance fans, the 2020 Audi RS 6 Avant will head to the southern hemisphere alongside the redesigned Audi A6 Allroad crossover.