Audi RS 6 speedster set for Down Under

AUDI'S most powerful car ever, the RS 6, will go on sale in Australia in June next year for about $230,000.

The timing and approximate pricing was confirmed by Audi Australia this week as the V8 bi-turbo goes on sale in Europe.

Just 25 units will be available for Australian customers, with the majority expected to plump for the sedan rather than the Avant (wagon).

An Audi spokesperson said "a few" orders had already been placed for the RS 6, despite final pricing and specification still to be set.

The RS 6 is loaded with technology. Its bi-turbo engine produces a stonking 331kW of power, there is an electronic suspension system called Dynamic Ride Control and an eight-piston high-performance brake system. Naturally, the quattro four-wheel drive system is also standard.

The looks are suitably toughened with a low front apron with three air intake apertures of diamond design, 18-inch alloy wheels, discreet side sills, a redesigned rear apron and a separation edge on the luggage compartment lid of the saloon.

* Audi Australia has confirmed it will import the A4 Avant from late August in 2.0-litre multitronic form. The decision to bring the car in is a turnaround from earlier this year when limited sales potential appeared to rule it out.

Although it will command a premium well above the $49,900 A4 multitronic sedan, it is still expected to be priced significantly under BMW's new 320i Touring, which goes on sale in June priced from $65,000.

Next up for Audi will be the A4 cabriolet in November, which will come as a 3.0-litre V6 priced around $105,000.

The all-alloy new generation A8 luxury saloon follows about April, 2003.

The only other vehicle that could appear before the RS 6 is an automatic version of the TT sports car. Sales have slipped back 25 per cent year-on-year in 2002, making TT the expanding franchise's only disappointing performer.