2012 Geneva Motor Show sees debut of a new version of the car that started the high-powered estate segment; Audi RS4 Avant. The recipe remains pretty much the same, with a V8 up front, a quattro permanent all-wheel drive system in the middle, and the the seven-speed S tronic at the back. We’re not sure it’s the prettiest RS4 though.

The new model applies Audi’s new design language which dictates all models must have kinda Samurai-like headlights. The front bumper is also changed over the previous RS model, and it’s not for the better.

Compared to the A4 Avant, the ride height has also been lowered and the wheels are swapped with 19-inch polished rims with 265/30-series tires. What’s more, the brakes are also upgraded and so is the suspension and the electronic controlling system that govern the chassis.

The practicality and convenience of the car remains intact in the RS4. Options for the luggage compartment, which offers up to 1,430 liters (50.50 cu ft) of cargo space, include a rail system with load securing set and a power hatch. It also comes with a long list of standard and available features.

The RS4’s party piece, as ever, is the engine. The 2013 model is powered by the RS5’s new V8 engine. This 4.2 liter naturally-aspirated engine produces 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm and 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) available from 4,000.

Performance-wise, it does zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.7 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Fuel consumption is about 11 liters of fuel per 100 km (21.38 U.S. mpg).

And finally the price; it’s €76,600 in Germany.