In America, the A6->ke934's history stretches back to the 1995 model year, when the German automaker refreshed its existing 100 model and renamed it the A6. In the same year, Audi renamed its existing S4 the S6->ke1207, giving the new model a performance model to call its own. In 2003, the U.S. got a taste of the true potential of the A6 lineup, as the RS6->ke1305 and its 450-horsepower V-8 made a quick, one-year-long cameo here. The RS6 Avant made its debut in Europe in 2013, and as we head into the late-2014, early-2015 model year in Europe, it appears an uprated RS6 Avant Plus is on its way.

Now it is time to get even more excited, as it looks like Audi will apply the same treatment to more models in its lineup and the next in line is the RS6 Avant.

First details suggest that, unlike the previous two Plus models, the RS6 Plus’ final output will be increased to an astounding 600 horsepower -- up from the standard 560 horsepower in the RS6 Avant. The extra 40 horsepower combined with numerous weight-saving tactics will transform the RS6 Plus into a real beast.

The best part is that the model won't be built in limited fashion, so if you want an improved RS6 this may be your chance.

We’ll update this review as Audi releases more info.

Updated 06/24/2014: A happy accident revealed a series of new details on the future RS6 Avant Plus. A British Audi dealer posted on its web site details on the future sports wagon. Of course it took it out when realizing the error, but it was too late. According to them, the RS6 Avant will be powered by the usual 4.0-liter TFSI engine, but with the output increased to 600 PS (591 horsepower). (Autoevolution)

2014 Audi RS6 Avant Plus

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2014 Audi RS6 Avant Plus
• Horsepower: 600
• [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Drivetrain

An accidental post by an Audi dealer leaked out the most important bits of information regarding the upcoming RS6 Plus. According to this leak, the Plus model will retain the 4.0-liter, V-8 engine, but with its output pushed up to 600 PS (591 horsepower). That's accounts for a 40-PS (39-horsepower) bump over the standard RS6 Avant.

2014 Audi RS6 Avant Plus - Drivetrain Specifications

Competitors

Audi RS6 Avant

The E63 AMG S Estate is the only true competitor to the RS6 Avant Plus in Europe. You can argue with me about a number of other "performance" estates in Europe, but only the Merc can really stand up to the Audi's 600 PS (592 horsepower). The E63 AMG S carries to battle a 5.5-liter, V-8, bi-turbo engine that punishes asphalt with 585 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 pound-feet) of torque. That's a little shy of the Audi, but still incredible for a grocery getter.

This powerful heart allows the Mercedes wagon to hit 62 mph in just 4.2 seconds and sprit to the Germans' favorite speed, an electronically limited 155 mph.

Audi RS6 Avant