Audi fans, get ready for an even more extreme version of the already impressive Audi RS6. The Ingolstadt automaker is set to release a new special edition of the RS6, dubbed the GT, as it gears up to celebrate its most successful performance models before transitioning to all-electric vehicles. The new range-topper is expected to be even more powerful and dynamic than the current RS6 Performance, which boasts 621bhp from its twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and costs £112,650.

Audi Sport boss Sebastian Grams has hinted that the GT will be an even more potent version of the RS6, with sharper dynamics and more power. Speaking at Audi Sport’s 40th anniversary celebration, Grams emphasized the RS6’s popularity and status as a halo model. He suggested that the GT will be an all-day car that delivers performance when needed, without losing its DNA. Grams also hinted that the RS6 is the core product of Audi’s portfolio and gives clues to what we can expect from future electric RS cars.

New spy shots of a camouflaged RS6 testing at the Nürburgring suggest that the GT will feature a chunky rear wing and subtle tweaks to the front and rear. However, it remains to be seen how extensively it will be differentiated from the standard car. The mule is fitted with a full race-spec roll cage, but it’s unclear whether the back seats remain or whether this is something that could make production.

Any limited-edition, range-topping V8 RS6 could arrive as soon as next year, with Grams confirming that Audi Sport will reveal a combustion car in 2024 – along with its first EV, based on the PPE architecture developed with Porsche, which is likely to be a hot version of either the upcoming Audi Q6 E-tron or Audi A6 E-tron.

Clues to the most ‘extreme’ RS6 were given by 2021’s radical, IMSA-inspired RS6 GTO concept, which was conceived by a team of apprentices to celebrate 40 years of Audi’s Quattro four-wheel drive system. The one-off concept donned a retro red-and-white livery, track-style one-piece rims, and bespoke aero-enhancing bodywork elements. It was stripped out inside to make way for a roll cage and bucket seats. Although Grams’ preoccupation with everyday usability suggests these elements will remain on the drawing board, side-exit exhausts hinted at a degree of engine enhancement – or at the very least pointed to a much louder exhaust note.

Audi enthusiasts can expect the GT to be an even more extreme version of the already impressive RS6. With its sharper dynamics and more power, the GT will be a brand-shaping product that gives clues to what we can expect from future electric RS cars. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new release from Audi Sport.