2026 Audi RS 6 E-Tron unveiled for the first time

Audi's A6 E-Tron midsize electric sedan, which will be unveiled later this year, will spawn both S and RS versions for performance enthusiasts.

A prototype of the S6 E-Tron has already been spotted, and this week we got the first spy shots of a prototype of the performance flagship RS 6 E-Tron.

The prototype may look like a regular A6 E-Tron, but closer inspection reveals details typical of the RS model, such as wider fenders, a larger rear diffuser, lowered suspension, and a larger brake package with what appear to be carbon ceramic rotors. The front mask design is also expected to be updated at the end of this year. The front mask design also resembles that of the updated E-Tron GT, which is scheduled for late this year or early next year.

The A6 E-Tron concept, unveiled in 2021, featured a 100 kwh battery and a dual-motor powertrain, producing 469 hp. However, the RS version will probably pack even more horsepower, likely well in excess of 700 hp.

The A6 E-Tron, and by extension the S and future RS versions, are designed on the new PPE modular EV platform for Volkswagen Group's mass-produced luxury models. The platform debuted earlier this year with the 2025 Audi Q6 E-Tron and 2024 Porsche Macan compact crossovers.

The A6 E-Tron should debut later this year or early next year, probably along with the S6 E-Tron version; the RS version will delay them by about a year. In the U.S., it will likely appear in the 2026 model year.

Audi is also working on an A6 Avant E-Tron wagon, and this body style should also get the RS treatment.

The gasoline-powered RS 6 is considered to be the last model, with the 2025 RS 6 Avant GT unveiled in February. However, Audi is working on a new generation A7, this time with both a sportback hatchback and avant-wagon body style, and both of these should have their own RS versions.