This week's standouts!

Audi RS4

One of our station wagon favourites has come back from a four-year break – the Audi RS4.

It will be available in station wagon form only, as Audi now claims that buyers are moving away from high-powered saloons.  Power comes from the same 4.2-litre V8 engine as the RS5, meaning a power output of 450hp, with torque rated at 430Nm (317lb ft).

It will also get the same seven-speed dual-clutch S-tronic transmission as the RS5, with the 0-62mph time being reached in 4.7 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 155mph.

Peugeot 208 GTi Concept

Peugeot proved they can still make fun cars when they released the RCZ, and now they’re looking to solidify that image with the upcoming 208 GTi.

In concept form, the 208 GTi is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder 1.6-litre engine with 200hp, and has been designed to rekindle the magic of the 205 GTi of the 1980s.  The 208 GTi Concept will come equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

BMW M6

The long-awaited BMW M6 coupe and convertible broke cover this week too.  They too come with the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 engine as the M5 saloon, meaning drivers will have 560hp and 680Nm (502lb ft) of torque at their disposal.  Power is sent through a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox to the rear wheels.

Despite current efforts within the car industry to make cars lighter and more efficient, at 1850kg, this M6 – rather disappointingly – is heavier than its V10-engined predecessor by about 140kg. We can still expect great performance from it though, with the coupe accelerating from 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds (4.3 seconds for the convertible), while top speed is limited to 155mph, or 190mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.


Alex Kisiri