For those who have perused The Drive recently, it’s quite likely they’ve stumbled upon articles discussing exciting new hatchbacks or wagons, often accompanied by complaints that these vehicles won’t be made available in the United States. The Audi RS4 and RS6 Avant wagons are prime examples of this disappointment, combining exceptional design, stellar performance, and remarkable practicality. We desire them, yet they remain out of reach.
In a recent conversation with MotorTrend, Audi of America’s vice president of Product Management, Filip Brabec, indicated that fans of wagons should not lose hope. “We are always exploring potential new opportunities in the market. It’s a niche worth investigating,” Brabec stated. “We continue to hold discussions. Please keep sending us letters.”
It should be noted, however, that this does not equate to a guarantee that the Avant models will come to the U.S.; it simply shows that Audi is aware of the demand and is at least considering introducing the vehicles. In a communication to The Drive, senior product and motorsport communications manager Mark Dahncke emphasized that there are currently no concrete plans, but that Audi will keep assessing market potential for these RS variants in the States.
According to MotorTrend, the luxury car market is not shifting towards wagons at present, even across Europe. Younger consumers are leaning more towards Sportback-style vehicles, which Audi is already offering in North America thanks to the newly launched RS 5 Sportback.
“The Sportback carries more appeal than the Avant,” explained Michael-Julius Renz, CEO of Audi Sport. “The Sportback is aimed at young families looking for a sporty, stylish vehicle that can also accommodate their children. Meanwhile, Avant customers tend to be somewhat older and more entrepreneurial.”
Nevertheless, hope is not lost. As Filip Brabec pointed out, as long as there remains a demonstrated interest among fans for these sporty wagons, Audi will continue to contemplate the prospect of making them available in the U.S. However, if you are in immediate need of a German luxury performance wagon, the latest Mercedes-AMG E63 S Estate, known for its prowess on the Nurburgring, currently dominates this segment.
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