Tag Archives: highly

Consumer Reports Says Nearly Half Of EVs Tested Fall Short Of EPA Range Estimates

Electric car vary is not a precise science. Figures rely extremely on street, climate, and driving circumstances, with a laundry record of different components that would have an effect on the mileage in between. If you look over the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) guidelines for the way it determines vary, there are many qualifiers. That mentioned, some EVs are nonetheless lacking the mark.

2023 Lucid Air Touring

Consumer Reports performed a 70-mile-per-hour freeway take a look at that consisted of absolutely charged automobiles with anyplace between 2,000 and 15,000 miles on the odometer, with outdoors temperatures hovering round 70 and 90 levels Fahrenheit through the time of testing. Even in preferrred circumstances like these, practically half of the 22 EVs fell wanting their EPA vary estimates.

Models from Ford, Lucid, and Tesla had been among the many guiltiest events. The Model S fell 39 miles wanting its 405-mile estimate and the Lucid Air failed by 40 miles. The worst offender of the group was the F-150 Lightning, which solely achieved 270 miles as a substitute of its 320-mile EPA ranking.

Other EVs from Audi, Hyundai, Genesis, Nissan, and Kia fell wanting their EPA scores as effectively, however all of these automobiles by fewer than 20 miles. The Nissan Ariya, for instance, was solely 4 miles wanting its EPA ranking, whereas the Ioniq 6 was simply 5 miles brief.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6

But it wasn’t all unhealthy. BMW’s EVs exceeded their EPA scores – by rather a lot. The i4 was 47 miles higher than its estimate whereas the iX was 46 miles higher. The most profitable of the group was the Mercedes-Benz EQE, which drove for 332 miles. That’s 72 miles higher than its estimated EPA vary.

Certain automobiles from manufacturers like Chevrolet, Nissan, Polestar, Tesla, and Rivian aren’t represented on this take a look at, CR notes, as a result of they didn’t meet the factors for testing. You can see the complete record of automobiles – and the way they faired – under.

Model EPA Rating CR Tested Range
Audi This autumn 50 E-Tron Premium Plus 241 Miles 226 Miles
BMW i4 M50 271 Miles 318 Miles
BMW iX xDrive50 324 Miles 370 Miles
Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat ER 320 Miles 270 Miles
Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium AWD ER 270 Miles 299 Miles
Genesis Electrified GV70 Advanced 236 Miles 220 Miles
Genesis GV60 Advanced 248 Miles 251 Miles
Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL AWD 256 Miles 267 Miles
Hyundai Ioniq 6 SEL AWD 270 Miles 265 Miles
Kia EV6 Wind AWD 274 Miles 277 Miles
Kia Niro EV Wind 253 Miles 239 Miles
Lexus RZ 450e Premium 220 Miles 202 Miles
Lucid Air Touring 384 Miles 344 Miles
Mercedes-Benz EQE 350 4Matic 260 Miles 332 Miles
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 350 4Matic 253 Miles 284 Miles
Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4Matic 340 Miles 380 Miles
Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV 450 4Matic 285 Miles 314 Miles
Nissan Ariya Platinum+ AWD 257 Miles 253 Miles
Rivian R1T 314 Miles 344 Miles
Subaru Solterra Limited 222 Miles 210 Miles
Tesla Model S Long Range 405 Miles 366 Miles
Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD 240 Miles 253 Miles

The Top 10 Reasons Why People Prefer iPhone Over Android

One major reason why many users prefer iPhones is because of the high level of security they provide. Apple’s closed ecosystem makes it difficult for malware to infiltrate these devices, giving users a sense of security and privacy. Regular system updates are essential to maintain this security, as phishing scams remain a primary vulnerability.

The debate between Android and iPhone users often centers around facial recognition technology. While Android introduced this feature first, it had vulnerabilities that made it susceptible to being tricked by a photo. Apple’s introduction of facial recognition in iPhones addressed these security issues, making it one of the most secure options available.

Additionally, the App Store’s stringent guidelines and vetting processes ensure that all downloaded apps are free from viruses and operate transparently, including clear disclosures of charges. Currently, iPhones do not allow app installations from outside the App Store without jailbreaking.

iPhone users also benefit from added protection with a system called Secure Enclave, which keeps sensitive data secure. In the event of an attack, there is a separate processor on an iPhone whose sole purpose is to perform a backup, adding an extra layer of security.

BMW 7 Series to Offer Level 3 Highly Automated Driving from Next Spring

Munich. The new BMW 7 Series will soon feature Level 3 highly automated driving, allowing drivers to momentarily take their hands off the steering wheel and focus on other tasks. The new function, named BMW Personal Pilot L3, takes control of the car’s speed, distance to the vehicle ahead, and lane positioning in certain situations. This option will be available for ordering in December and fitted in vehicles starting from March, excluding the i7 eDrive50 and i7 M70 xDrive models.*

The highly automated driving function is designed to handle the entire driving task with Level 3 capability as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). It will be offered exclusively in Germany for a price of 6,000 euros (incl. VAT).

This innovative technology allows drivers to shift their attention to other in-vehicle activities when traveling at speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph) on motorways with structurally separated carriageways. This system’s sophisticated sensors enable its use even in low light conditions, making it the first of its kind.

The introduction of Level 3 functionality in BMW 7 Series models will make the BMW Group the first carmaker to offer both an advanced Level 2 driving function in its product portfolio where the hands can be taken off the steering wheel and positioned comfortably and a Level 3 system. The BMW Highway Assistant in the new BMW 5 Series models offers a highly innovative SAE Level 2 partially automated driving function, including the Active Lane Change Assistant with eye confirmation for long-distance journeys. This function allows the driver to take a relaxed posture behind the wheel while the car manages speed, distance, and steering at speeds up to 130 km/h (81 mph).

With Level 2 (partially automated driving), the driver is still responsible for the task of driving, whereas with Level 3, drivers can focus on secondary in-vehicle activities while the BMW Personal Pilot L3 controls the driving task. In a BMW 7 Series with the BMW Personal Pilot L3 activated, customers will be able to edit e-mails, engage in telephone calls, and use digital services such as streaming videos from various providers on the central display. This makes the new BMW Personal Pilot L3 ideal for making use of time spent in slow-moving traffic or tailbacks during daily motorway commutes.

Visual and acoustic signals indicate the availability of the BMW Personal Pilot L3 and it can be activated and deactivated by a button on the steering wheel. The system requires the driver to be ready to reassume control at any time, indicated by signals. Failure to respond appropriately will result in the vehicle coming to a controlled stop.

The technology behind the BMW Personal Pilot L3 includes a live HD map, precise routes, 360° sensors for monitoring the area around the vehicle, regular updates, a new software stack, a powerful computing platform, and a 5G link-up to the BMW Cloud. The vehicles are equipped with latest-generation ultrasonic sensors, radar sensors, and a highly sensitive 3D lidar sensor, enabling reliable operation even in low light conditions. The qualities of the SAE Level 3 automated driving system are unmatched by any rival, enhancing comfort and safety on public roads.

*The BMW Personal Pilot L3 is only available with the relevant BMW Connected Drive services, valid for two years.

BMW i7 M70 xDrive: 
Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 23.8 – 20.8 WLTP.

BMW i7 eDrive50:
Power consumption in kWh/100 km combined: 20.3 – 19.1 WLTP.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R Deliveries Commence In India

Kawasaki has started delivering the highly anticipated Ninja ZX-4R in the Indian market. The bike was launched in India on September 11, 2023, much to the delight of motorcycle enthusiasts. The predecessor of the ZX-4R, the ZX-25R, was not introduced in the country, which created a demand for small to mid-displacement sportbikes in India and other Asian countries.

However, despite its smaller size, the Ninja ZX-4R comes with a hefty price tag. It is the most expensive 400cc model in the Indian market, with a retail price of Rs 849,000 ($10,204 USD). In comparison, Kawasaki USA sells the ZX-4R for $9,399 USD.

In terms of performance, the new Ninja ZX-4R offers beginners and intermediate riders a solid foundation to hone their skills on the track. It is equipped with a 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 75.9 horsepower at 14,500 rpm. The torque is 39 Newton-meters (about 28 pound-feet) at 13,000 rpm. The power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual transmission, and the bike also features a quickshifter for a more exhilarating ride.

On the technology front, the ZX-4R comes with a full-color TFT instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity. Riders can choose between four ride modes (Sport, Rain, Road, and Rider) through the display. The bike also features ABS and traction control for added safety and peace of mind.

In terms of its design, the ZX-4R has traditional sportbike foundations, including 17-inch wheels, inverted front forks, a rear monoshock, and dual disc brakes at the front. It has low-slung clip-ons and high rearsets similar to its larger ZX siblings, which can sometimes be mistaken for its entry-level counterpart, the Ninja 400.

Kawasaki offers the Ninja ZX-4R in a single Metallic Spark Black color in the Indian market. The company had initially planned to release the bike in batches of 25 units, and the first two batches have already been sold out. The booking window is currently open, and customers placing orders can expect delivery in early 2024.

Nacreous Clouds Explained: How It Happens (And Where To See Them)

Nacreous clouds are unique clouds that form in the stratosphere at extremely low temperatures of around negative 85 degrees Celsius. These clouds occur when temperatures fall below the frost point in the stratosphere, creating ice crystals. They are typically found in higher latitudes and are characterized by their small particle size, which allows them to scatter light in a distinctive way, resulting in their iridescent or rainbow appearance.

According to the Meteorological Office of the UK, nacreous clouds usually form at elevations between 68,500 and 100,000 feet. During the day, they may appear similar to pale cirrus clouds, but they become truly spectacular during sunrise or sunset when the sun is 1-6 degrees below the horizon.

Nacreous clouds are a type of polar stratospheric cloud and are associated with freezing and dry weather. Scientists classify them into three types, la, lb, and ll, based on their chemical composition, ambient temperature, and elevation.

10 Things You Should Know About The 2024 Kia EV6

The Kia EV6 is a highly sought-after electric SUV, and with its advanced technology, impressive performance, spacious interior, and long-range capabilities, it is expected. Its sleek and modern design, culminating in clean lines, a bold stance, and aerodynamic features, maximize efficiency as well as performance. It offers exceptional performance and power from multiple electric powertrain configurations, which deliver impressive acceleration and quick responsiveness. It also offers excellent long-range capabilities. With a range of up to 310 miles on a full charge, the EV6 is the ideal option for daily commuting, road trips, and everything in between.

​​​​​​With fast charging capabilities, the EV6 can handle long journeys, minimizing the need for frequent charging stops. It also comes fitted with advanced technology and features like a state-of-the-art infotainment dual panoramic display system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a range of connectivity options. Keeping with the industry, this EV offers a level two autonomous advanced driver-assistance system with features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control for enhanced safety and convenience on the road. The Kia EV6 combines impressive performance, long-range capabilities, a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a stylish design to produce a truly exceptional option in the electric SUV market.

Related: Why The Kia EV6 GT Is The Best Performance Compact Electric SUV

1 The Kia EV6 Is Offered In A Variety Of Well-priced Trims

2023 Kia EV6 scenic shot
Kia

The Kia EV6 offers six different trims, with each offering its own unique set of features and specifications. The Light trim, which is the base model of the Kia EV6 equipped with a rear-wheel-drive system, starts at a retail price of $42,600. The Wind (RWD) trim starts at $48,700 with additional features like a panoramic sunroof and a wireless charging pad.

Kia EV6 Trims And Prices

Light (RWD)

$42,600

Wind (RWD)

$48,700

Wind (e-AWD)

$52,600

GT-Line (RWD)

$52,900

GT-Line (e-AWD)

$57,600

GT (e-AWD)

$61,600

The Wind (e-AWD) trim starts at $52,600 and provides the benefits of an all-wheel-drive system. The GT-Line (RWD) trim starts at $52,900, offering a more sporty driving experience with 20-inch wheels, performance brakes, and performance tires. The GT-Line (e-AWD) trim starts at $57,600 with the same sporty features as the GT-Line RWD while the top-of-the-line most powerful and fastest accelerating GT (e-AWD) trim starts at $61,600.

2 The GT Trim Is A True Performance Vehicle

2023 Kia EV6 drifting
Kia

The Kia EV6 GT offers a powerful dual-motor, all-wheel-drive configuration, which produces an impressive 576 horsepower and helps the vehicle achieve an incredible 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.4 seconds. Its neon green high-performance brake mono-block calipers and 21-inch alloy wheels are distinguishable. The cabin of the Kia EV6 GT features a flat-bottom steering wheel with a neon green GT switch with front bucket seats that also come with neon accents, providing a bold and unique look that perfectly complements the vehicle’s exterior design.

An electronically controlled suspension produces exceptional handling and an electronic rear limited-slip differential further enhances the vehicle’s handling ability, ensuring a smooth and stable ride, even when navigating sharp turns and corners. It also features high-performance tires, specifically engineered to provide maximum grip on the road.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The Kia EV9

3 There’s Enough Grunt In Every Trim

Runway Red EV6 GT front 3/4
Kia

The Light trim features a single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration that generates 167 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, making it an adequate balance between efficiency and performance. Moving up, the Wind trim is a single-motor rear-wheel-drive setup delivering 225 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. If you crave even more power, the Wind trim also offers 320 horsepower and 446 pounds-feet of torque in a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration that propels to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.

Kia EV6 Performance Specs

Layout

Power Output

0-60 mph

Light

Single-motor RWD

167 hp

7.1 secs

Wind

Single-motor RWD/Dual-motor AWD

225 hp/320 hp

6.7 secs/4.5 secs

GT-Line

Single-motor RWD/Dual-motor AWD

225 hp/320 hp

6.7 secs/4.5 secs

GT

Dual-motor AWD

576 hp

3.4 secs

The GT-Line trim also offers both a single-motor rear-wheel-drive and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant. The GT trim offers the peak of performance in the EV6 lineup. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration generates 576 horsepower and 545 pounds-feet of torque that allow it to soar from zero to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds in an adrenaline-pumping driving experience.

4 It Offers Up To 310 Miles Of Range

Kia EV6
Kia

The Light trim features a 58 kWh battery pack delivering a range of 232 miles with a fuel efficiency of 117 MPGe. All higher trims like the Wind and GT-Line trims offer the larger 77.4 kWh battery pack that offers an impressive range of 310 miles in the rear-wheel-drive version. These feature a 117-MPGe efficiency. The all-wheel-drive variant of the Wind trim offers a slightly lower range of 282 miles, delivering a decent efficiency rating of 109 MPGe.

Kia EV6 Battery Range Specs

Battery Pack

Range

Efficiency

Light

58 kWh

232 miles

117 MPGe

Wind (RWD)

77.4 kWh

310 miles

117 MPGe

Wind (e-AWD)

77.4 kWh

282 miles

109 MPGe

GT-Line (RWD)

77.4 kWh

310 miles

117 MPGe

GT-Line (e-AWD)

77.4 kWh

252 miles

96 MPGe

GT (e-AWD)

77.4 kWh

206 miles

79 MPGe

The all-wheel-drive GT-Line variant provides a lower range of 252 miles and an efficiency rating of 96 MPGe. The GT trim offers a range of 206 miles and an efficiency rating of 79 MPGe due to the performance preference of this trim level. All trims offer DC fast-charging capability, recouping 10-80 percent charge in just 18 minutes.

Related: 10 Reasons Why The Kia EV6 Should Be Your First EV

5 The Interior Is Comfortable And Comes With Oremium Features

bucket seats EV6 GT
Drive Time Productions LLC

The cabin is bathed in soft, customizable ambient lighting, which creates a soothing and immersive atmosphere inside the cabin while adding a touch of elegance to the interior. A 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system which includes a subwoofer and an external amplifier, delivers crystal-clear sound and immersive audio quality. Comfort is evident in the heated and ventilated front seats with the vegan leather seat trim adding a luxurious touch to the interior. The heated and cooled seat options ensure optimal comfort in any weather condition. Higher trims include a heated steering wheel to add an extra level of comfort while driving during colder months.

Thanks to the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the vehicle has a flat floor which opens the cabin by maximizing legroom and storage space. The absence of a center tunnel also makes seating arrangements more comfortable.

6 Ample Cargo Space In The Kia EV6

Kia EV6 cargo space
Kia

Starting behind the rear seats, the Kia EV6 offers an adequate 24.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity. This is 5.8 cubic feet less than the Tesla Model Y. With the rear seats folded flat, it increases to an impressive 50.2 cubic feet making transporting large items such as furniture or outdoor gear easier.

The EV6 also comes with a small front trunk, or “frunk,” which provides an extra storage option for the charging cables. The front trunk measures 1.8 cubic feet on the rear-wheel-drive models and 0.7 cubic feet on all-wheel-drive models. This storage space keeps the cabin more organized and clutter-free with the charging cables organized and out of the way. A spacious glove compartment measures 0.4 cubic feet which is perfect for storing smaller items such as sunglasses, keys, and snacks.

Related: Comparison: Kia EV6 vs Chevy Blazer EV

7 No Dearth Of Technology Features In The Cabin

2023 Kia EV6 Interior
Kia

The EV6 comes equipped with 12.3-inch high-resolution dual panoramic displays seamlessly integrated into the vehicle’s sleek dashboard. They provide access to functions like navigation, entertainment, vehicle settings, integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music streaming, performance information, and advanced connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The EV6 also comes with an augmented reality heads-up display that projects important information like speed, navigation directions, and safety alerts onto the windshield, so drivers can keep their eyes on the road while accessing essential information. This system overlays navigation instructions onto the real-world view utilizing augmented reality technology. A smart parking assist system can remotely control the parking maneuver of the vehicle. A smart power tailgate feature automatically opens and closes the tailgate with a swipe of the foot under the rear bumper.

8 Excellent Driver-Assistance Features

Kia EV6
Kia

Kia Drive Wise is Kia’s comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance features available on the EV6 offering safety and convenience to drivers at a high pedestal. It features Highway Driving Assist 2 which uses advanced sensors and cameras to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and keep the EV6 centered in its lane, effectively combining adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to provide a semi-autonomous driving experience on the highway.

Other features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Lane Following Assist provide drivers with added confidence and peace of mind on the road. A range of other safety technologies like Safe Exit Assist, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Smart Cruise Control allow drivers to enjoy the EV6’s performance and technology while knowing they remain protected by advanced safety features.

Related: The 2023 Kia EV6 Lineup Cranks Up The Heat On The Competition

9 The EV6 Still Tows Like An Ideal SUV

The Kia EV6 boasts impressive towing capacity in both available battery packs, in both the rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The 58 kWh battery pack version is rated to have a towing capacity of up to 1,600 pounds, while the 77.4 kWh battery pack version can tow up to 3,500 pounds of weight. This is enough to be able to tow small boats, trailers, or equipment, so drivers can embrace an active lifestyle without compromising on sustainability or performance. Offering adequate towing capacity doesn’t affect the EV6’s aerodynamic qualities.

The EV6 boasts a drag coefficient of 0.28. Its sleek lines and sweeping contours minimize air resistance, carefully crafted to create a smooth and seamless airflow around the vehicle by reducing drag. This helps optimize efficiency as well as performance.

10 A Series Of Special Features Make The EV6 Good For Camping

Kia EV6 powering external devices
Kia

The EV6 is equipped with a 3.6 kW power outlet known as an onboard generator that can power camping equipment and accessories like lights, a portable stove, and even small appliances. This feature runs off the vehicle’s battery and eliminates the need for a separate generator and ensures a clean and sustainable power source.

The Kia EV6 also features a range-preserving heat pump system which is designed to keep the vehicle’s cabin warm while preserving its range, making it ideal for camping in colder temperatures. This heat pump system is more efficient than traditional resistive heating, as it reduces energy consumption and minimizes the impact on the vehicle’s range. An advanced HVAC system provides heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, ensuring optimal comfort while in the great outdoors.

Is A Harley-Davidson X440 Trademark Tussle Brewing In India?

The launch of the Harley-Davidson X440 in India was highly anticipated and received positive reviews. Over 25,000 bikes were prebooked in the first month, which is a significant achievement for any OEM.

However, there seems to be a potential trademark issue brewing. Ultraviolette, an Indian electric two-wheeler startup, has applied for a trademark on the name “X44.” The application was approved and published in the government’s official journal with a status of “Accepted and Advertised.”

Ultraviolette’s opposition to the X 440 trademark filed by Hero MotoCorp, the manufacturer of the Harley-Davidson X 440, has been officially registered. Ultraviolette applied for its X44 trademark before Hero MotoCorp, but Hero MotoCorp’s trademark was published in the official journal slightly earlier. The trademark opposition process in India requires the opposing party to file a notice within four months of the publication date, which Ultraviolette has done.

If Hero MotoCorp chooses to respond, there will be hearings where evidence will be presented by both parties. Depending on the outcome, there may also be appeals. Hero MotoCorp and Harley-Davidson are likely to have legal resources at their disposal to handle trademark issues, while Ultraviolette is a smaller company founded in 2016.

It remains to be seen how this trademark tussle will play out, but we will provide updates as they become available.

The Audi RS6 Avant: More Than Just A Wagon

Summary

  • The Audi RS6 Avant is a highly popular and sought-after high-performance wagon that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide.
  • The RS6 Avant stands out with its aggressive yet tasteful design, featuring an understated exterior and a somber yet luxurious interior.
  • With a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, impressive performance capabilities, and unique features like sport-tuned adaptive air suspension and a sport differential, the RS6 Avant offers sheer capability and stands as a top contender among other high-performance wagons in the market.

Ask any car enthusiast what their dream garage is and there’s a pretty high chance that there will at least be one wagon on that list. Wagons, after all, are very versatile cars. If practicality and a big cargo area are what you’re after, then what’s wrong with buying a wagon as opposed to a crossover SUV? Granted, wagons won’t have the option for a third row, but the world’s best-selling SUVs are mostly five-seater vehicles, and thus, are essentially wagons with a taller ride height.

There is a rare breed of high-performance wagons, however, that manages to combine what the heart wants with what the mind desires. A wagon that has sports sedan qualities that are combined with a longer roof, and thus, a crossover-like amount of cargo space. Among these potent wagons, there’s one that stands out in most car enthusiast’s minds.

MSRP, engine, and performance specifications seen in this article were taken from Audi’s official website and press releases. The Audi RS6 Wagon’s factory top speed is limited to 155 MPH, but an estimate on the top speed without the electronic limiter was possible based on top speed runs, one of which will be shared below.

Related: Next-Gen Audi Sports Cars Could Feature Ferrari-Level Suspension

The Audi RS6 Avant Is A Damn Great Wagon

A parked Audi RS6 Avant
Audi

That would be the Audi RS6 wagon (or Avant in Audi’s marketing jargon) is one great wagon whose qualities have made car enthusiasts from all over the world fall in love with this brute. The current fourth generation (C8) RS6 is sold solely as a wagon, and it’s the first time that the nameplate has been offered in the North American market since the first generation (C5) RS6 was discontinued. Also, this is the first time that Audi sold an RS-badged wagon in the United States. Prior to this, Audi’s North American wagon lineup was dominated by raised “Allroad” versions of the A6 Avant and A4 Avant.

The Audi RS6 Avant wouldn’t be popular in the U.S.–at least on paper since it’s a wagon, but the clamor for the RS6 Avant to arrive in America was so strong, the German luxury automaker succumbed to the car enthusiast’s wishes and finally, the RS6 Avant was offered in the States beginning in the 2021 model year. This proved that there’s actually a strong market for high-performance wagons in the U.S.A., and could serve as a precedent for other automakers to sell high-performance wagons in the United States.

Related: 10 Sleeper Cars That Can School The Porsche 911

But The RS6 Avant Is More Than Just A Wagon

Gray Audi RS6 Avant
Audi

But part of the RS6 Avant’s appeal is its ability to be more than just a wagon. To understand that, let’s first talk about its design. Audis are generally understated and nondescript, but the RS6 Avant looks aggressive without being too ostentatious. As with most high-performance cars nowadays, Audi sets its identity with their so-called “Singleframe” grille–which in this case has a hexagonal shape.

There’s also a slim (albeit fake) air vent on top of the grille as well as trapezoidal side vents to complete the look of its sculpted front end. Filling the RS6 Avant’s sexy widened fender flares are deliciously large 22-inch alloy wheels shod in low-profile Continental SportContact 7 tires–though it probably won’t be delicious to replace those tires or wheels if you hit those.

While the exterior looks brawny yet tastefully executed, the interior is pretty somber, though not exactly one that’s cheap. This isn’t surprising since the RS6 Avant is basically a high-performance version of the A6, so the only interior features that separate the two cars are the increased use of carbon fiber, sportier seats, a high-end Bang & Olufsen surround sound system (though even this can be opted in the A6), and unique software features specific to the RS6 for the Virtual Cockpit digital instruments and the MMI infotainment system.

While the major selling point of a wagon is its SUV-like cargo space (30 cubic-feet), most car enthusiasts probably just want the more handsome looks provided by the body style’s longer roof compared to a sedan. Still, the benefits of a long roof are undeniable–especially when you actually need to use all of that space for hauling bulky items. But what you’re probably drawn to in the RS6 Avant is its sheer capability.

The RS6’s 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 packs which is mated to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system with an integrated starter generator. This drivetrain has a total system output of 592 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque that lets it sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. In typical Audi fashion, this is sent to all four wheels (aka their Quattro all-wheel drive) via a ZF eight-speed automatic.

An exterior 3/4 shot of the 2024 Audi RS6 Avant performance
Audi

The RS6 Avant, of course, isn’t just all about straight-line speed, because this wagon comes with sport-tuned adaptive air suspension and a sport differential that actively splits torque between each side of the rear wheels. The steering system is also unique to the RS6, while optional performance extras include an RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control and carbon ceramic brakes.

If this isn’t potent enough for you, then there’s a new Audi RS6 Avant Performance with more bite and more money to pay for. With 621 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque thanks to a rework to the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8, this hot wagon now does the 0-60 mph run in just 2.9 seconds.

The limited-slip differential has also been reworked, while the ZF eight-speed auto box now provides faster shifts. The RS6 Avant was also deemed too quiet inside, so Audi’s engineers reduced the sound insulation in the drivetrain for added engine noise. If that’s not loud enough, Audi will sell you an optional RS sports exhaust for even more noise.

Related: 10 Practical Cars That Are Secretly Supercars

The Audi RS6 Avant Also Has Company

2021 blue Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate
Mercedes-AMG

However, is the Audi RS6 Avant the dream performance wagon you’re looking for? There are two more high-performance wagons sold in the United States vying for your hard-earned six-digit figures. Both of them are German and both of them are capable in their own unique way.

Audi RS6 Vs. Rivals

Audi RS6 Avant

Audi RS6 Avant Performance

Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon

Porsche Panamera Turbo S Sport Turismo

Engine

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8

4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8

Layout

Front engine, all-wheel drive

Front engine, all-wheel drive

Front engine, all-wheel drive

Front engine, all-wheel drive

Horsepower

592 hp

621 hp

603 hp

620 hp

Torque

590 lb-ft

627 lb-ft

627 lb-ft

604 lb-ft

Transmission

8-speed automatic

8-speed automatic

9-speed automatic

8-speed automatic

0-60 mph

3.5 sec.

3.3 sec.

3.4 sec.

2.9 sec. (with Sport Chrono package)

Top speed

155 mph

155 mph

186 mph

196 mph

Base MSRP

$122,995

$125,800

$121,100

$190,400

The Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is a brute luxury beast with a muscle car-like attitude, while the Porsche Panamera Turbo S Sport Turismo is the RS6 Avant’s cousin from Stuttgart.

Related: Why Audi’s EV Platform Deal With SAIC Is A Masterstroke

Here’s Why The Audi RS6 Avant Could Be Appealing To You

An action front shot of a 2024 Audi RS6 Avant performance on the road
Audi

The current C8 generation of the Audi RS6 Avant could be appealing to your for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it’s the RS6 at its absolute peak when it comes to all-around capability and luxury. That’s also the same case dynamically, as the car is very capable on a handling perspective than any other RS6 before it.

Lastly, this RS6 will inevitably be electrified for the next-generation model, but it’s not electrification that will still preserve the internal combustion engine (ICE). The RS6 will come with the “e-tron” moniker, and become a high-performance electric wagon that was previewed by the A6 e-tron concept. But of course, the concept is just a preview, and since it’s an RS model, expect more performance and added sportiness to the final production model’s character.

Porsche Scratch-Built Model Collection Features 917s, 908s, Tiny Steve McQueen

Building a scale model car from a kit is one thing. But creating a highly detailed 1:5 scale replica from scratch is a whole different level. That’s exactly what Lothar Wunsche did, and he didn’t stop at just one. In his unique collection, he has over 20 Porsche race cars, each one meticulously built by himself using basic tools like a drill and a jigsaw, along with his incredible talent and a lot of patience.

Lothar’s passion for Porsche and model making began in the late 1970s when he was a resident of East Germany. During that time, it wasn’t easy to attend races in the region due to the Soviet era. However, Lothar managed to visit a race track where he had the opportunity to meet people from Porsche’s race team. It was there that he got up close to Porsche cars, and that experience left a lasting impression on him.

The iPhone 15 Pro Color Options Are Going To Upset Some People

Apple’s decision to use titanium as the material for its premium phones, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, is likely to upset some people. Titanium is a natural element known for its high resistance to chemical erosion and its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it an obvious choice for Apple. Not only does titanium offer superior qualities compared to stainless steel, but it is also lighter.

In recent years, gold has been a popular color option for the stainless steel finish of iPhones, starting with the iPhone XS in 2018. However, with the switch to titanium, Apple will no longer offer a gold color option. Instead, Apple plans to showcase the natural beauty of titanium with a titanium gray option. Apple’s rationale seems to be that if they are using the best material available, there is no need to hide it. The titanium iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone Pro Max will also likely come in space black and silver colors.

Although fans of purple and gold may be disappointed to learn that these colors may be discontinued, the introduction of a new dark blue option and the stronger, lighter titanium build may provide some consolation. It is important to note that titanium is more expensive than stainless steel, so it remains to be seen how this change will impact the cost of the iPhone 15 Pro. However, we won’t have to wait long to find out. Soon, we will get a closer look at the new color options available for the iPhone 15 lineup.