As a perk of working in the automotive industry, I sometimes stumble upon 'press fleet' vehicles for brief test drives. Today was definately one to remember. I was lucky enough to get the keys to (what I've been told is) the first Audi RS6 in North America. For those who don't know, it is a 450hp monster, barely distinguisable from an Audi A6 4.2 visually.
Built by the quattro Division of Audi (which was started recently in response to BMWs M group and Mercedes AMG division) the RS6 certainly gives the M5/E55 a ride for the money.
Brakes:
Brembo 8 piston, feel like the hand of God. I've got big Brembos on my car, and these ones feel equally as solid. The brake assist is perfect.
Handling:
More E55 than M5, it is agile, smooth and fast through corners. I obviously didn't have the opportunity to take it on a track, but it handled high speed sweepers VERY nicely.
Acceleration:
Fast as hell. I think that it is definately faster than the M5/E55. I haven't driven an E55, but it definately *felt* faster than an M5. I think that it could easily bury my M3 in most acceleration tests. I had heard that we should expect 0-60 times in the 5.0 second range, and I think they've done it. (With I had a GTech Pro)
Comfort:
Audi/VW has recently become what I think is the number one manufacturer in terms of fit/finish quality. I would definately say that the fit/finish is far better than most Benzes (save I would imagine the Maybach) and definately a step above current BMW 7s). The seats were wonderful, and the interior was really nice. Didn't have a chance to play with all the toys, but it has a barely adequate stereo (as do most expensive cars) and feels very german. Automatics piss me off, but the paddle shifter-type setup on the steering wheel was nice.
Like the E55, this car does not *need* a manual transmission, but it would sure be nice.
Anyway, look for complete reviews in the Car Magazines this month. The car recently debuted in Germany, but it has been confirmed for North America, and should be one hell of a barn stormer. Not sure if it is coming to Canada, but it would be one hell of an all-year-long supercar for Calgary