Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Audi RS 6
Our scoring places the 2021 Audi RS 6 at 7.5/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this wagon. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 9.4/10, while Value at 5.7/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability is the weak spot: 6.1/10, under the class average. Review the recall record on this page and price in extra maintenance headroom. The safety score of 7.9/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance is a genuine highlight at 9.4/10. The Audi RS 6 delivers engaging driving dynamics — responsive handling, meaningful power delivery, and a drivetrain that rewards spirited driving without sacrificing daily usability. The cabin tech earns 9.1/10 — infotainment, smartphone integration, and driver-assistance are all close to the best this class offers.
Priced from $99,918–$131,685, 17 MPG, seating 5, the Audi RS 6 sits in the luxury tier of the wagon market. The value score of 5.7/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2021 Audi RS 6 is a solid, well-rounded wagon that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. The main caveat is reliability and value — worth checking if those dimensions are priorities for you. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Wagons
The 2021 Audi RS 6 ranks #25 of 26 wagons in the Carivo database — better than 8% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is 0.4 points below the segment average of 7.9/10. Its $99,918 starting price is about 101% above the segment's median of $49,682.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which RS 6 Year Should You Buy?
Across the RS 6 model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Best-in-class infotainment, driver assistance, and connectivity features
✗ Where it falls short
Below-average reliability data — factor in potential repair and maintenance costs
Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
Fuel economy at 17 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
Common Questions — 2021 Audi RS 6
Is the 2021 Audi RS 6 reliable?
We rate the 2021 Audi RS 6's reliability 6.1/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2021 Audi RS 6 worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #25 of 26 wagons in our database (better than 8% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Audi RS 6 cost?
The 2021 Audi RS 6 starts at $99,918 and ranges up to $131,685 across trims (MSRP when new). At 17 MPG, expect roughly $3,088/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which RS 6 years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 6 RS 6 model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.7/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Audi RS 6
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More Audi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Audi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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