The Audi RS6 Avant has been in the tuning headlines recently. So much so, that we are starting to wonder if so many owners think it is subpar or if tuners are just starting to recognize that it is ripe for tuning.

We'd like to believe its the latter because the RS6 really is a masterful piece of work. Aftermarket companies are right to be interested in the vehicle, and no more so than one of the biggest Audi tuners in the world: ABT Sportsline.

A day after it introduced a new program for the S3 Coupe, ABT is following it up with its own take of the high-powered German wagon->ke143. Unlike the S3 Coupe program, this RS6 Avant was given its share of distinguishable aesthetic upgrades, specifically the addition of new carbon-fiber mirror caps. A stainless steel exhaust silencer system was also installed, as well as new suspension springs, and a new set of either 20- or 22-inch wheels.

Those are some nice additions, but we all know that ABT Sportsline prides itself on its impressive performance programs, and this RS6 received quite a load. From the standard 560 horsepower and 519 pound-feet of torque numbers of the RS6's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, ABT was able to drive it all the way up to a staggering 700 horsepower and 652 pound-feet of torque, allowing the sports wagon to now hit 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds to go with a top speed of 199 mph.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2013 Audi RS6 Avant by ABT Sportsline

2013 Audi RS6 by ABT Sportsline

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Audi RS6 by ABT Sportsline
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 700
  • Torque: 652
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

2013 Audi RS6 Avant by ABT Sportsline

It looks mild-mannered now, but wait until all those horses under its hood all come to life.

Carbon fiber mirror caps add a touch of luxury and identifiable style to the RS6 Avant's exterior.

A new exhaust with twin tailpipes give the RS6 a throatier note.

Don't forget those sexy wheels!

700 horsepower. Need we say more?

2013 Audi RS6 Avant

Audi unveiled the new RS6 Avant in 2012, and it may be the best A6 ever. It is about 220 pounds lighter than its predecessor, more powerful, faster, and of course, better looking.

The new RS6 Avant is powered by a twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter, V-8 engine that delivers a total of 560 horsepower between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, and 516.29 pound-feet of torque between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. This output is enough to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and up to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. An optional Dynamic Plus package will increase top speed to 189 mph.

The RS6 Avant is priced from £77,000 - about $124,000 at the current exchange rates.