What’s new: The RS6 is the most powerful estate car in the world. Its 580PS 5.0-litre V10 engine roars to 62mph in just 4.6secs.

Excellent: The engine. The sheer brute force powering this car means it is as quick as Audi‘s flagship supercar, the R8. It accelerates rapidly at any speed and sounds magnificent.

Good: Despite all this power, the RS6’s looks are remarkably understated. There are only a few tasteful tweaks to the standard A6, meaning you avoid unwanted public attention.

Average: .but 20.2mpg on the combined cycle ensures you’ll be well known at your local petrol station. The 80-litre tank means filling up with premium will be a pricey experience.

Poor: Running costs are astronomical. Also, pop the suspension into ‘Sport’ mode and your back’ll never be the same again.

Verdict: Try as you might, it’s hard to justify owning the world’s most powerful estate car at any time, especially in a troubled financial climate.

Audi RS6 Avant 5.0-litre 5-dr auto
P11D price £77,275
Model price range £24,760-£77,725
Fuel consumption 20.2mpg
CO2 (tax) 333g/km/35%
BIK 20/40% per month £451/£902
Service interval 9000-19,000mls
Insurance group 20
Warranty 3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space (min/max) 565/1660 litres
Engine size/power 4991cc/580PS
Top speed/0-62mph 155mph/4.6secs
On sale now
Score 7/10
Verdict A true monster that hides quietly
under the guise of an everyday
estate. Handle with care.