Performance Tested: Audi RS 6 Avant vs. Audi RS 7 vs. RS Q8

• We've tested and reviewed some of the fastest vehicles ever produced by Audi.
• The RS 6 Avant, RS 7 and RS Q8 use the same engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system.
• The RS 7 posted the best all-around performance of the trio.

2021 Audi RS 6 Avant

The Audi RS 6 Avant is a high-performance wagon based on the Audi A6 sedan. While we don't get a standard A6 Avant in the United States, we do get the lifted Audi A6 Allroad wagon. In addition to the powertrain, the RS 6 includes upgrades such as all-wheel steering, an adaptive air suspension for improved handling, and a sport-tuned limited-slip differential for enhanced traction.

• Stats
• Base MSRP (including destination): $110,045
• 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
• Quarter mile: 11.4 seconds @ 118.6 mph
• 60-0 mph braking: 109 feet
• Skidpad: 0.97 g
• As-tested weight: 4,904 pounds

2021 Audi RS 7

Aside from the shape, the RS 7 is nearly identical to the RS 6 Avant. It even uses a hatchback-style trunk, though that sleek profile means it doesn't offer quite as much cargo space as the wagon. The interior is much the same. From the driver's seat forward, the two look and feel about the same. The RS 7 is slightly more expensive, but it has generally the same features and options as the RS 6.

• Stats
• Base MSRP: $115,045
• 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
• Quarter mile: 11.3 seconds @ 120.8 mph
• 60-0 mph braking: 107 feet
• Skidpad: 1.00 g
• As-tested weight: 4,847 pounds

2021 Audi RS Q8

If you want performance and luxury but you prefer the space, comfort and seating position of an SUV, Audi has you covered. Think of the RS Q8 as a lifted and slightly stretched version of the RS 6 Avant. It offers a bit more passenger and cargo space than the wagon as well as the tall seating position SUV drivers enjoy. And yet it sure doesn't drive like an SUV, with performance that's only a bit off from that of the RS 6 and RS 7.

• Stats
• Base MSRP: $115,595
• 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
• Quarter mile: 11.8 seconds @ 115.2 mph
• 60-0 mph braking: 105 feet
• Skidpad: 1.06 g
• As-tested weight: 5,487 pounds

Edmunds says

The RS 6 Avant is the least expensive, the RS 7 is the quickest, and the RS Q8 offers the most space, utility and performance. Really, you won't go wrong with any of them. But the RS 7 seems to sit in the sweet spot between utility and performance.