How Much Cargo Can the Mighty Audi RS6 Avant Really Hold? – A Practical Luggage Test Reveals All

When it comes to wagons, Audi has been a consistent frontrunner, especially with models like the Audi RS6 Avant and the A6 Allroad. Surprisingly, in the world of SUVs and compact cars, these two sporty wagons promise more than just performance—they offer impressive cargo space, too. Today, we dive into a hands-on luggage test to see if the Audi RS6 Avant and A6 Allroad live up to their cargo capacity claims.

Both the Audi RS6 Avant and A6 Allroad boast a claimed 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. To put things into perspective, that's more than the Volvo V90 Cross Country's 25.5 cubic feet, yet slightly less than the Mercedes E63's 35 cubic feet. While impressive on paper, real-world usability often tells a different story since specs don't always account for practical challenges like odd-shaped luggage or unforeseen obstacles in the cargo area.

To give you a comprehensive look, we conducted four different tests. We started with the largest roller suitcases often required for checked baggage at an airport, added smaller carry-on suitcases, and even tossed in a stylish overnight bag to ensure our load diversity. Our aim? To see what fits, what doesn't, and the best way to utilize the cargo area in both wagons.

First things first, both the Audi RS6 Avant and A6 Allroad come equipped with a floor that lifts up to reveal extra storage compartments. While the space isn't extensive enough to fit larger luggage, it's perfect for smaller items or even an emergency kit. The area does, however, house a large subwoofer and a plastic bin, ruling out room for additional suitcase storage below the main cargo floor.

In our first test, we kept the cargo cover in place. The results? While the two largest roller suitcases fit under the cover, our smaller green carry-on was left out due to the cover's height restrictions. Interestingly, despite some bags slightly sticking above the cover, it still managed to close snugly. Not the perfect fit, but a commendable effort for those unwilling to remove the cover.

When we retracted the cargo cover but kept it within the car, all our luggage fit perfectly. This configuration even left some extra room, allowing us to add a small duffel bag and another medium-sized roller bag. Impressively, this level of cargo space surpasses many SUVs on the market today.

Removing the cargo cover and utilizing the built-in cargo net allowed us to pack up to the roof without compromising safety. As expected, visibility remained clear, making this a viable option for anyone needing extra space for those long trips. We managed to fit a 38-quart cooler in addition to the previously included bags, making it comparable to the load capacity of a Honda CR-V or Hyundai Tucson.

Finally, we loaded the RS6 Avant to its full capacity, even sacrificing some rear visibility. The amount of cargo it held was astonishing, although it did violate the visibility rule, eliminating its practicality for safe driving. Nonetheless, the use of the cargo net ensured our items didn’t pose a hazard. This extensive cargo space just reinforces why the RS6 Avant remains such a beloved wagon among enthusiasts and practical users alike.

So, what's the takeaway? Whether you’re hauling sports gear, suitcases for a family vacation, or simply stockpiling goods for a road trip, the Audi RS6 Avant and A6 Allroad offer outstanding cargo space. Even when compared to many popular SUVs, these sporty wagons hold their own, proving that performance and practicality can coexist harmoniously.