Preview: 2008 Audi RS6 Avant

Development work for Audi’s "wolf in sheep’s clothing" RS6 line is nearing completion, but until it arrives this new rendering gives an accurate look as to how the new Avant version will be styled. Though late to the table, the new RS6 is expected to blow away the competition with a rumored twin-turbo V10 engine churning out 571hp (426kW). Back in June, leaked chassis codes for the car revealed the specific output as well the displacement of the engine, which remains at 5002cc.

Recent spy shots of the RS6 Avant showed the car with different bumpers to the regualr A6 models, the front sporting larger air intakes and the rear getting an integrated diffuser and two large exhaust pipes. The front of the car will also likely feature a strip of carbon fiber acting as a lower lip, while new carbon-ceramic brakes should be available as an option.

Base models will come with a a six-speed ZF automatic transmission and quattro AWD, however, there are murmurs that Audi will introduce a new DSG capable of handling the supercar power levels and the expected 1,000Nm (737lb-ft.) torque figure.

Early reports suggest the car sedan model will bow in at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, with the Avant scheduled to make its debut early next year.