The 2013 Audi RS4 Avant debuts in Geneva

Among the new Audi models unveiled at this week’s 2012 Geneva Motor Show was the 2013 RS4 Avant, the newest high end sport wagon to sport the 4 rings but like most other RS-models from Audi – the new RS4 Avant likely won’t be showing up in US dealerships.

The 2013 Audi RS4 Avant is powered by a 4.2L V8 churning out 450 horsepower (at an awesome 8.250rpm) and 317lb-ft of torque to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro advanced all wheel drive system via a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. With the help of a strengthened torque vectoring differential setup similar to the one in the US-sold Audi S4, the 2013 RS4 Avant can scream from a stop to 60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds while on its way to the top speed of 155mph. Audi also reportedly has a dealership “flash” that can raise that top speed from 155 to 174 for those who have a need for even more speed.

In addition to the Quattro all wheel drive system and the torque vectoring differential, the 2013 Audi RS4 Avant is equipped with an adjustable active suspension system, lightweight 19” alloy wheels and a massive high performance braking system with 14.4 inch rotors – helping to ensure that the RS4 Avant handles just as well as it accelerates. Also, buyers can upgrade to a larger braking system sporting 14.9 inch carbon ceramic rotors and 20” wheels for improved braking and handling capabilities.

Outside, the 2013 Audi RS4 Avant features a unique, sporty look with a far more aggressive front and rear fascia than what comes on the standard A4 Avant, including the RS4-specific wheels. The suspension system not only allows the RS4 Avant to handle better but it also has the sport wagon sitting lower over the sporty gun metal colored wheels to accentuate the aggressive look of the new wagon.

Inside, the 2013 RS4 Avant packs all of the amenities that you would expect in a modern high performance sport-luxury wagon including a race car styled steering wheel complete with paddle shifters and infotainment system controls and RS4 specific gauges. Also, the crown jewel of the RS4 Avant interior upfittings is the pair of incredible high back sport seats that adjust in every imaginable way; clad in soft leather and sporting the RS4 logo stamped into the seat back. These could be some of the coolest “stock” seats in the automotive world outside of the exotic supercar segment.

The bad news only pertains to American readers, as there isn’t a very good chance that we will ever see the 2013 Audi RS4 Avant in the US market. Wagons don’t sell particularly well in the US – especially compared to the popularity of these larger vehicles in Europe – and Audi doesn’t see a good business case to have the high end RS4 wagon in the American market. The good news is that Audi may considering making the next RS4 Avant globally available but that could be a few years away.

Check out the gallery on the right for a closer look at the new 2013 Audi RS4 Avant and stay tuned to TorqueNews.com for more Geneva Motor Show coverage!