The RS6 was awarded a maximum five-star crash safety rating by Euro NCAP, along with an impressive four out of four stars for child safety. It comes with six airbags as standard (twin front, side and curtain) plus active head restraints that reduce the risk of whiplash injuries. Because of the immense power available, the RS6 also features an upgraded version of the Electronic Stability Programme which helps the driver regain control during a skid while larger ventilated brake discs are standard.

Buyers can upgrade to high performance ceramic brakes for exceptional stopping performance, although this comes at an extra cost of £6,250.

Audi is keen to promote the Avant version of the RS6 as the ‘only car you’ll ever need’ and claims it combines performance and practicality. It boasts the same boot capacity as the standard A6 Avant with 565 litres of space available. Although the rear seat backs don’t fold flat, there’s an underfloor storage tray and no boot lip – making loading heavy or awkward items easier.

With the seats folded down, the load area increases to 1,660 litres – on par with the M5 Touring but smaller than the Mercedes E63 AMG Estate. A load area fixing kit with a telescopic bar and securing belt for dividing up the luggage compartment is available as an optional extra. The saloon has the same boot space as the standard four-door A6 and for long items the rear seats can be folded down too.