Audi unveils RS 6 Avant, RS 7 performance variants
For Audi fans who felt like the RS 6 Avant and RS 7 models just weren't powerful enough, Audi has announced performance variants of both cars that are faster and make more power than the "normal" RS models.
Powered by the same twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 found in the RS 6 and RS 7 models, the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance versions make 598 horsepower and as much as 553 lb.-ft. of torque thanks to an overboost function.
The non-performance cars make 560 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft of torque.
Both cars run from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, an improvement of 0.2 seconds over the standard RS models, and need just 12.1 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 200 km/h, giving them a 1.4-second advantage.
In each case, the governed 250 km/h top speed can be increased as an option to 280 km/h, or 305 km/h with the optional Dynamic Package Plus.
Fitted with quattro all-wheel drive, both the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance models put power down through a 60/40 split biased to the rear wheels, with torque distributed through a centre differential.
A rear differential is also standard, and enables active torque distribution between the inside and outside wheels.
With standard adaptive air suspension, both cars sit 20 millimetres lower than the standard RS models.
Both RS performance models ride on 21‑inch cast aluminium wheels, and feature accentuated bumpers with large air inlets up front and heavily profiled rear diffusers, a quattro logo on the air inlet duct, and matte titanium-look detailing.
RS super sports seats with pronounced side bolsters and integrated head restraints are standard, and are upholstered in a black and blue Alcantara and leather combination or a red Alcantara and leather combination.
With the RS 6 Avant performance very unlikely to come to Canada, and no word on the RS 7 Sportback performance, this is a bit of a tease, we know.
Pricing in the United Kingdom starts at £86,000 for the RS 6 Avant performance, equal to $173,500, and at £91,600 for the RS 7 Sportback performance, about $184,900.
