THE third-generation RS4 has a lot to live up to after the success of its well-received predecessor, of which 321 were sold in Australia across sedan, cabriolet and Avant wagon body styles between 2006 and 2008.

With the RS5 coupe and upcoming cabrio taking care of business for those wanting a sportscar, the Avant seamlessly blends a chic and practical A4 wagon body with the RS5’s brutal V8 engine, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission, not to mention its beefed-up suspension, wider track and whopping brakes.

So has Audi really created a weekend track hero that can sensibly ferry family and Fido during the week?

Click the Our Opinion button to find out...