Audi RS6 Performance – interior and tech
Crisply designed and beautifully built, the RS6's cabin is a delight – save for a few too many touch controls
Nothing in here should come as too much of a shock to long-time Audi owners, with the latest A6 cabin, and by extension the RS6 Performance, having the same levels of material quality, fit and finish and comfort as previous generations.
Where this latest cabin makes a larger step is in its use of haptic touchscreen controls for minor functions, something Audi has rolled out across its range. Objectively it works pretty well, the haptic vibrations doing their stuff to let you know when you’ve pressed a ‘button’, and being among the less distracting screen set-ups with large controls for air conditioning and audio functions on the two screens.
Subjectively it’s still not as satisfying or distraction-free as proper buttons, and some drivers may simply not get on with the layout, or take longer to get used to it. Worth noting too that the screens do pick up fingerprints, so regular cleaning will be required to keep the cabin looking sharp.
Other than that, and a slightly dour vibe typical of Audis, there’s little to complain about. The third screen, Audi’s virtual cockpit, is as clear and easy to use as ever. The steering wheel with its dimpled leather feels great, it’s easy to find the perfect driving position, and everything you’re likely to touch feels high quality. Rear room is good and with a 565-litre boot (expanding to 1680 litres seats-down) it fits the usual Avant practicality brief, too.
