The next generation of the Audi RS6 is on the horizon, and it’s shaping up to be a game-changer in the performance car segment. Set to debut in 2026, the new RS6 will offer both a plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain and a fully electric variant, marking a significant evolution for Audi Sport. This dual approach not only caters to the growing demand for electrified vehicles but also ensures that performance enthusiasts still have a thrilling combustion option.
What’s New in the 2026 Audi RS6?
For the first time since 2010, the RS6 will be available in both estate and saloon body styles, giving buyers more choices than ever. This new model aims to compete directly with the likes of the electric BMW i5 M60 and the plug-in hybrid BMW M5, promising to deliver an exhilarating driving experience across the board. The combustion version is expected to produce a staggering 730bhp, making it the most powerful RS6 yet.
The decision to retain a combustion engine alongside the electric variant is a strategic pivot for Audi. With EV sales not progressing as quickly as anticipated in key markets, Audi is extending the lifecycle of its internal combustion engine (ICE) models. This means that while the future is electric, there’s still a place for the roaring V8 that enthusiasts love.
How Will the Powertrains Work?
The hybrid RS6 will utilize an updated version of the Porsche-developed twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine, paired with a plug-in hybrid system. This setup will include a gearbox-mounted electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, similar to what’s found in various Porsche and Bentley models. Recent test mules have been spotted with design cues reminiscent of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, hinting at the performance capabilities we can expect.
The electric RS6 E-tron will be built on Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), featuring a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive system. Initial reports suggest it will deliver around 670bhp, which is a significant boost over the S6 E-tron. Audi is keen to ensure that the electric variant retains the thrilling driving dynamics that the RS6 nameplate is known for, incorporating features like a trick gearbox and enhanced cabin sound to elevate the driving experience.
What About Performance and Handling?
Both versions of the RS6 are expected to showcase aggressive styling, with wider arches, a deep rear diffuser, and larger spoilers that enhance aerodynamics. The PHEV will feature larger air intakes and centrally positioned oval tailpipes, while the EV will grow to a length of 4900mm to match its hybrid counterpart.
Despite the use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and composites, the added hybrid components will increase the weight of the new PHEV RS6 beyond 2090kg, while the electric variant may tip the scales at over 2500kg. To counterbalance this weight, Audi Sport is likely to introduce a new active suspension system, similar to that found in the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, to maintain agility and comfort.
Pricing and Market Positioning
As with previous iterations, the new RS6 will command a premium price. The electric version is expected to exceed the current £99,300 S6, while the petrol-powered variant could approach the £176,975 mark of today’s RS6 Avant GT. This positioning reflects Audi’s commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles that justify their price tags through advanced technology and exhilarating performance.
The Future of Performance Cars
As we look toward 2026, the evolution of the Audi RS6 signifies a broader trend in the automotive industry. The blend of hybrid and electric technologies with traditional performance car attributes is not just a response to regulatory pressures but also a recognition of changing consumer preferences. Enthusiasts can rejoice knowing that the spirit of the RS6 will continue, whether through the roar of a V8 or the silent thrust of electric motors.
The big takeaway? The future of performance isn’t about choosing between electric and combustion; it’s about having the best of both worlds. Embrace the change, and you might just find that the thrill of driving is more alive than ever.