Audi Isn't Ready to Let the RS6 Become Just Another Hybrid Wagon

A Class Of Its Own

There is a space where the Audi RS6 Avant competes; alongside it are a few nameplates still holding the torch for enthusiasts who crave high-performance wagons. This segment of the automotive industry used to have an abundance of choices, but SUVs have taken their share, reducing the number of wagons available.

Audi's RS6 has found a way to keep the wolves at bay by being the ultimate expression of practical high-performance. Instead of buying a fast SUV, the RS6 became a go-to for the power-hungry family man.

Out With The Old

Despite its inherent appeal and relevance, the RS6 has been around for quite some time. A lot of questions are coming up about the next-generation model, and some answers have been provided. CarSales was able to get a quote from Audi Sport boss Rolf Michl, giving us insight into Audi's thinking for the next RS6. He was asked whether the RS6 would have any relation to the current plug-in hybrid RS5. Michl said the RS6 will have a very compelling package, and it won't simply be a copycat of the RS5.

The question raised is valid, considering the RS6's party piece is that it still offers a V8. Most of the competition have downsized the engine cylinders or displacements to meet stricter emissions and noise regulations. The RS5 is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system assisting a twin-turbo V6, which, on paper, doesn't sound like much of a downgrade, but the RS6 is known for the V8.

Michl also cites his numerous experiences having driven over hundreds of miles in both the RS5 and RS6. He says it's more than just about the size of the engine, but about how convincing the package is as a whole. He also basically guarantees that the new RS6 will not stand on its own and will be built from the ground up.

Save the V8?

Michl's comments are pretty telling, as he confirms the RS6 will retain the individuality of the rest of the lineup. We can speculate that the next generation could be special. The question now is, if it's not going to have the same twin-turbo V6 PHEV found in the RS5, will it still offer a V8?

Lucky for Audi, they have access to multiple parts, and they could look to their siblings at Bentley or Porsche for V8s with plug-in hybrid technology.

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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 1:18 PM.