2004 Audi RS6 Plus 4.2L V8 AWD 5AT (480 HP)

Vehicle Overview

In 2004, Audi decided to pull the plug for the RS6 sedan version, but continued using the badge on the long-roof one, added some more ponies, and named it the RS6 Plus.

While Audi used the Avant nameplate for its station wagons, the “Plus” used after the RS6 didn’t mean that it had more luggage space. It was built for only six months and in a limited number of 999 units. Moreover, it could threaten supercars from the same era while still being able to carry a family of five and their luggage for a long vacation.

Like the regular RS6 Avant built between 2002 and 2004, the RS6 Plus featured wider, flared wheel fenders compared to the mundane A6. Its front grille had a black rim surrounding it and sported a small red and gray badge where the automaker placed the RS6 lettering. Still, that could’ve been read only when the vehicle was stationary. It was that small. From its profile, the long-roof version featured black roof rails and a small spoiler at the top of the raked-forward tailgate. Unlike the RS6 Avant, this Plus version came fitted with a modified exhaust system to cope with the increased power, and the tailpipes’ tips were oval and black.

Inside, Audi installed Recaro sport seats at the front with high-bolstered areas that kept their occupants in place during high-speed cornering. Because the RS6 Plus was perfectly capable of doing that. The bench was wide enough in the back for three people, but it was profiled for two. Also, on the interior, the automaker placed carbon fiber trims on the dashboard, center console, center stack, and door cards.

Under the hood was the same 4.2-liter turbocharged engine developed by Audi and enhanced by Cosworth. It provided 30 ponies more than the regular RS6 and used the same all-wheel drive transmission with a Torsen center differential.