In a bold move that reflects the shifting tides of the automotive industry, Audi has unveiled plans for its next-generation RS6 sports car, set to debut in 2026 with a choice of electrified powertrains. Marking a significant evolution for the high-performance model, the new RS6 will be available as both a plug-in hybrid and a fully electric variant—an industry-first for the iconic nameplate.
This latest RS6 generation will be Audi’s most powerful yet. The plug-in hybrid version will feature a refined 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, believed to be sourced from Porsche, producing up to 730 horsepower—an increase that positions it directly against BMW’s newly electrified i5 M60 and hybrid M5.
For the first time since 2010, the RS6 will also return in both wagon and sedan body styles, expanding its appeal beyond the traditionally Avant-only configuration. This strategic diversification underlines Audi’s efforts to stay competitive in the fiercely contested German sports sedan market.
Interestingly, the decision to retain a combustion engine option comes after Audi Sport initially announced plans to go fully electric with the RS6 lineup. However, lagging EV sales in key global markets forced a rethink. Audi is now pivoting to a dual-platform approach, extending the lifespan of its combustion models well into the next decade.
The electric RS6 E-tron will be built on Volkswagen Group’s Premium Platform Electric (PPE), while the hybrid model will ride on an evolved version of the existing MLB architecture—now rebranded as Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). This split not only caters to different buyer preferences but also allows Audi to maximize flexibility and reduce development costs.
The RS6 E-tron will feature a dual-motor all-wheel drive system similar to that in the upcoming S6 E-tron, though tuned for higher performance. Audi Sport is targeting approximately 670 horsepower for the electric variant, paired with a sporty torque delivery curve to maintain its performance pedigree. It will use a 94.8 kWh battery pack, the same unit found in the A6 E-tron, though range is expected to be slightly lower than the A6’s estimated 745 km due to the RS6’s performance-oriented setup.
Meanwhile, the hybrid version is expected to pair the V8 engine with an electric motor integrated into the transmission and a lithium-ion battery—similar to setups used in current Porsche and Bentley plug-in hybrids. This configuration will help the RS6 meet stringent Euro 7 emissions standards without compromising its hallmark performance.
As Audi prepares to bring this new RS6 generation to market, it’s clear that the brand is not only adapting to the future—but doing so on its own terms. By offering both hybrid and electric options, the RS6 is set to remain a powerhouse in the performance sedan segment, bridging the gap between tradition and transformation.
Source: Audi
