Audi
RS 6 And RS 7 Performance
Audi
is upping the potency of its already extreme RS 6 Avant and RS 7 by introducing
new Performance models that boast increased engine output and numerous RS-spec
equipment as standard. The engine remains Audi’s ubiquitous turbocharged
4.0-liter V-8, whose output here has been bumped up to 605 horsepower and 553
pound-feet of torque, up from 560 hp and 516 lb-ft in the stock RS 6 and RS 7.
With
the new output, the cars will accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.7 seconds,
down from 3.9 seconds for the stock RS 6 and RS 7, and from 0-124 mph in 12.1
seconds, down from 13.5 seconds for the stock models. Top speed is governed to
155 mph but with an available Dynamic Package this figure is lifted to 189.5
mph.
Making
up the rest of the drivetrain is an eight-speed automatic transmission and
quattro all-wheel-drive system. In normal driving conditions, 60 percent of the
drive torque is sent to the rear wheels for a rear-biased feel. RS 6 and RS 7
Performance buyers can also opt for Audi’s Sport Differential which can further
split the torque between the rear wheels.
Other
performance features include AIR suspension with adjustable dampers, 21-inch
wheels and ventilated steel brake discs. Available upgrades include stiffer
Dynamic Ride Control suspension, Dynamic Steering with a continuously variable
steering ratio, and carbon-ceramic brake discs. Many of these vehicle systems
can be controlled by the Audi Drive Select system, which on the Performance
models features a controller on the multifunction steering wheel—just like in
the R8 supercar.
Only
die-hard Audi fans will be able to tell the Performance models apart from the
stock versions. Unique visual touches include a matte titanium finish on some
exterior parts and an exclusive Ascari blue metallic paint finish. Inside, the
cars come standard with sports seats with pronounced side bolsters and
integrated head restraints. These can be ordered in a combination of Alcantara
and leather, and with contrast stitching. Finally, the dial instruments feature
black faces, white dials and red needles.
Audi
is yet to announce availability in the United States but we can expect the RS 7
Performance to be offered here for the 2017 model year. Sadly, we won’t get the
RS 6 Avant Performance here since Audi has determined that American buyers
don’t want wagons.