The next-generation Audi RS6 looks set to be quite the performance weapon, according to a new report out of the UK.
Autocar claims the new bahn-storming wagon will feature a version of the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 used in various Volkswagen Group models like the Porsche Panamera and Lamborghini Urus, with a power output eclipsing the 600hp (447kW) barrier.
Currently, the RS6 Performance makes 445kW and 750Nm from its 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8, where the earlier pre-update RS6 made 412kW and 700Nm from the same engine.
The Panamera Turbo, meanwhile, makes 404kW and 770Nm from the new engine that's anticipated to feature in the new-gen RS6, while the Lamborghini Urus makes a meatier 478kW and 850Nm from the same unit – expect the Audi to sit somewhere in between.
According to the British publication, the extra grunt from the new powertrain and its lighter MLB underpinnings should help it shave a tenth of a second or so off its 0-100 claim, meaning it should hit triple figures in around 3.5 to 3.6 seconds.
By comparison, the BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E63 S complete the benchmark dash in 3.4 seconds, though the beefier M5 Competition betters that slightly with a 3.3-second claim.
The report adds that the next-generation RS6 will be revealed and launch after the upcoming S6, which should be offered in both sedan and wagon forms compared to the wagon-only RS version, and ditch the current model's detuned twin-turbo V8 for the new 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 used in the RS4 and RS5.
With 331kW of power and 600Nm of torque in its current form, the twin-turbo V6 actually betters the torque figure of the current V8 (331kW550Nm), and the reduced weight of the smaller engine in combination with the lighter MLB platform should see the 'S' version of Audi's large sedan and wagon edge closer to the 4.0-second mark for the 0-100 sprint.
Both the S6 and RS6, however, are expected to send drive to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Stay tuned to CarAdvice for more updates over the coming months.
Pictured: Audi RS6 prototype (spy shots)
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