Perhaps the most subjective section of our experiment, so bear with me. In my eyes, both RS models are handsome and aggressive while maintaining what enthusiasts call sleeper status. AKA, high-performance cars that aren’t loud, visually. Yes, these two RS models are sharper and wider and more angular than their base-model siblings, but cruising around a city like Los Angeles, only enthusiasts clock the RS badging. To everyone else, they’re just nice Audis. Which is to say, they’re fine, but pretty standard fare. That being said, I personally love modern sleepers so this is actually a plus in my opinion.
As to which one’s more attractive, the Avant has my heart. The RS Q8 looks good, but also like many other Audi SUVs. Wagons, however, are rare in the States. And this longroof’s proportions are just clean and classic, especially with all the attention to detail Audi designers add. The wider fenders. The black optics package. The brightly painted rotors with ceramic brakes. Overall, I’d argue it’s a superior design, aesthetically. (What do you think?)
Michael S. Palmer began his career assisting and developing content for Academy Award-winning and studio-based film and television producers. He has been a professional writer since 2008, when he joined the Writers Guild of America West (WGAw). As a journalist and Content Editor/Manager, he has covered numerous emerging imaging, theatrical exhibition, home entertainment, and automotive technologies. He currently spends his days creating original content at the Internet Brands Automotive Group for some of the world's largest online automotive communities, including Ford Truck Enthusiasts, CorvetteForum, ClubLexus, AudiWorld, and LS1Tech. He still owns his first car, a 1987 Mercury Cougar; adores driving his Boss 302 Mustang; and recently teamed with Chevrolet Performance, Holley, Magnaflow, Eaton, Wilwood, Michelin, Chemical Guys, Summit Racing to build his first project car. Installing an LS3 E-ROD Connect & Cruise system into a 1992 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon made his eight-passenger wagon faster than a C5 Corvette to 60mph and 50 state emissions legal. His wife and daughter are very patient.
