Audi's RS6 of the best

AUDI'S storming RS6 will make its international debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with Avant and saloon versions appearing simultaneously.

And the good news is that up to 20 Australians will have the chance to own one around the middle of next year - although they can expect no change out of $200,000.

Created by quattro GmbH as an entirely independent model and developed in conjunction with Audi AG, the RS6 is powered by a V8 bi-turbo engine with a thumping 331kW and 560Nm.

Audi claims the RS6 sprints from 0-100km/h in a mere 4.9 seconds, and hits the 200km/h mark after 18 seconds. The top speed is electronically governed at 250km/h.

To maintain the emphasis on an overtly sporty driving style, the tiptronic five-speed automatic transmission for the RS6 incorporates a dynamic Sport program.

Planning is already underway to secure production shares of up to 20 vehicles, according to Audi Australia managing director Graham Hardy.

"The RS6 is the absolute pinnacle of the A6 model range. We believe that the combination of absolute supercar performance with the high levels of luxury associated with the Audi brand will find favour with an exclusive number of Australian buyers," Mr Hardy said.

"The handcrafted nature of this vehicle builds on Audi's reputation for superb quality and design, albeit subtle, to maintain exclusivity for owners. We plan to import around 20 RS6 saloons into Australia next year although pricing and specification has not been finalised." The RS6 will replace the S6 at the top of Audi Australia's just relaunched mid-size A6 range. Considering that car currently retails for $166,000, it is fair to suggest the RS6 will be in the $200,000 region.

Technical features of the RS6 include the DRC (Dynamic Ride Control) suspension stability system, quattro permanent four-wheel drive, five-speed tiptronic transmission and a high-tech brake system which includes composite "floating" discs, eight piston callipers, ABS and electronic brake fore distribution (EBD).

There is no shortage of other acronyms, including ESP (Electronic Stability Program), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), EDL (Electronic Differential Lock with active brake control), ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) and MSR (engine drag torque control).

The RS6's aggressive styling is highlighted by a low front apron with three specific air intake apertures, 18-inch or (optionally) 19-inch alloy wheels, side sills and a rear spoiler above a redesigned rear apron.

Inside there are heated Recaro sports seats, a choice of leather interiors, three-spoke sports steering wheel with shift paddle, a "concert" radio with Bose sound system and the Acoustic Parking System.

The standard-fit passive safety equipment includes airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags at the front and the Audi Sideguard head-level airbag system.