The new 2018 Audi RS 4 Avant has made its world debut at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show.

Buyers can order the new figurehead of the A4 range later this month, with prices starting at £61,625.

It promises a blend of everyday usability with exceptional performance, from a 2.9-litre TFSI engine delivering 450PS and 600Nm of torque via standard quattro drive.

Massive air inlets with typical RS honeycomb structure and the wide, flat Singleframe grille define the front end.

Compared to the Audi A4 Avant, the wheel arches are 30mm wider and are given added emphasis by the quattro blisters.

At the rear end, the RS-specific diffuser insert, the oval tailpipes of the RS exhaust system and the RS roof edge spoiler make for a distinctive look.

The new Audi RS 4 Avant rides on 19-inch forged aluminium wheels as standard; 20-inch wheels are available as an option.

The V6 biturbo can accelerate the car from 0 to 62mph in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 155mph. With the optional RS dynamic package, the top speed increases to 174mph.

In the combined cycle test the RS 4 Avant is able to return up to 32.1mpg with CO2 emissions of 199g/km.

The standard-fit RS sport suspension sets the Audi RS 4 Avant another seven millimetres lower than the standard A4 with sport suspension. RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) is available as an option, as are ceramic brakes and RS-specific dynamic steering. Drivers can define their own individual personal driving experience using the standard dynamic handling system Audi drive select.