Audi releases two angry and aggressive cars, the RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, both amazing cars.

New versions of RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback bring power and performance even closer to supercar levels

• New RS 6 and RS 7 performance variants to supplement existing models available from November priced at £86,000 OTR and £91,600 OTR
• First deliveries in February 2016
• 4.0 TFSI uprated by 45PS to 605PS, new overboost function offers on-demand torque increase of 50Nm to 750Nm
• 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds, top speed of up to 189mph
• Best-in-class economy is undiminished by performance enhancements

A new peak is about to be reached in the Audi RS range as RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback ‘performance’ models join their existing and already formidable counterparts and ramp power up to a colossal 605PS and torque to up to 750Nm. 

Despite doing even greater justice to the RS badge by translating their 45PS and 50Nm output advantages into a supercar-challenging sprint time of just 3.7 seconds, the new RS performance models retain the same best-in-class fuel economy and efficiency figures as their ‘standard’ equivalents.

Available to order in the UK from November, and scheduled for first deliveries here next February, the RS 6 Avant performance will be priced at £86,000 OTR and the RS 7 Sportback performance at £91,600 OTR. The 4.0-litre TFSI engine at the heart of both bolsters its 605PS output with a 700Nm torque peak which can be temporarily increased by the driver to 750Nm by way of an overboost function.

The two RS high-performance models sprint from 0 to 62mph in just 3.7 seconds, an improvement of 0.2 seconds over the respective standard RS model, and need just 12.1 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 124mph, giving them a 1.4-second advantage. In each case the governed 155mph top speed can be increased as an option to 174mph, or 189mph if the dynamic package plus is specified.

Despite the 45PS output boost, the sonorous V8 biturbo power unit returns up to 29.4mpg in the RS 6 Avant performance and 29.7mpg in the RS 7 Sportback performance, corresponding to 223 and 221 g/km of CO₂.

Engineering expertise gathered by Audi and quattro GmbH over many years of RS model development has been invested in the upgraded 4.0 TFSI, from the specific engine management system with increased rpm and boost pressure to the Audi cylinder on demand (COD) system, which only activates four of the eight cylinders when under part load.

The standard eight-speed tiptronic transmission has been designed to maximise the potential of the even more extreme engine in both the new RS 6 Avant performance and the new RS 7 Sportback performance. The driver can choose between the modes D and S or change gears manually either by tapping the selector lever or by using the shift paddles on the RS multifunction sport leather steering wheel. In manual mode, a shift indicator in the driver information system or optional head-up display indicates the rev limit.

quattro with sport differential

quattro permanent all-wheel drive delivers the power to the road and flexibly distributes torque as needed via the centre differential. In the standard configuration, 40 per cent flows to the front axle and 60 per cent to the rear. The wheel-selective torque control intervenes as necessary. A sport differential acting on the rear axle is also standard, and enables active torque distribution between the inside and outside wheel.

With its dynamic set-up, the standard RS adaptive air suspension lowers the body of the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance by 20 millimetres. The integrated damping control varies as a function of the road conditions, driving style and the mode chosen in Audi drive select. As an alternative, the tauter RS sports suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) is also available, and both set-ups can be complemented by optional dynamic steering with a continuously variable steering ratio.

The driver can modulate the function of key components using Audi drive select, including the steering, engine and sound management, the tiptronic transmission and the sport differential. The RS performance models, like the all-new R8 sports car, make the Audi drive select configuration process even quicker and easier by enabling the driver to switch between the auto, comfort, dynamic and individual modes without taking eyes off the road using a special button on the RS multifunction sport leather steering wheel.

In both RS performance models, 21‑inch cast aluminium wheels channel the exceptional output with the help of 285/30 tyres in the RS 6 Avant performance and 275/30 tyres in the RS 7 Sportback performance. The four internally ventilated brake discs have a weight-saving wave design, and can be replaced by carbon fibre-ceramic discs as an option.

Striking design details reinforce the preeminent position of the two new RS performance models. These include the accentuated bumpers with large air inlets up front and the heavily profiled diffuser insert at the rear, the gloss black honeycomb grille typical of the RS models and the flared side sills.

The RS performance-specific exterior is distinguished by a quattro logo on the air inlet duct and matt 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 with a honeycomb pattern and matching stitching on the armrests which also extends to the control elements and floor mats. The knee pads are also finished in Alcantara and the inlays in carbon with blue thread. This sophisticated and exclusive carbon material is interwoven with a blue thread.

More efficient and with greater sprinting power-The new All-Wheel drive sports car.

Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Targa 4 with turbocharged engines and new all-wheel drive

A sports car with all-wheel drive is the first choice for more than one in three Porsche 911 buyers. With the new 911 Carrera 4 and 911 

Targa 4, the innovative turbocharged engines are more powerful and consume less, with the improved all-wheel drive increasing dynamics and driving safety. In addition, the adaptive PASM chassis (Porsche Active Suspension Management) with its 10-millimetre lower ride height included as standard enables an even greater spread between sporty circuit and relaxed long-distance driving. 

Rear-axle steering that is available as an option for the Carrera 4Smodels further increases the dynamic spectrum considerably. Interior functionality is enhanced by the standard-feature Porsche Communication (PCM) connectivity and infotainment system with simplified operation and multi-touch display.

The all-wheel drive models not only include the numerous visual refinements of the new 911 Carrera generation but also have their own individual distinguishing characteristics. 

For instance, the light strip between the rear lights now produces an especially distinctive effect thanks to its new three-dimensional design. The light strip also underlines the signature look of the all-wheel drive 911, with rear wings that arch further outwards by 44-millimetres, as in previous models. 

Additional distinguishing features of the new 911 generation range from the headlights with four-point daytime running lights, via door handles without recess covers, to the redesigned rear lid with vertical louvres and new rear lights – including the characteristic four-point brake lights.

New developments in the visual appearance also underline the sophisticated elegance of the 911 Targa. With its individual design, the new 911 Targa continues to stand out clearly from the coupé and cabriolet. It spectacularly combines the classic Targa idea with advanced roof convenience. 

Like the legendary original Targa, it has the characteristic wide bar in place of B-pillars, a removable roof section over the front seats and a wrap-around rear window without C-pillars. The roof segment can be opened and closed at the push of a button, with the soft top being accommodated behind the rear seats as it opens.

Faster acceleration with up to 12 per cent lower fuel consumption

Behind the re-engineered flat engines are more than four decades of Porsche experience with turbocharged engines from motor racing and production sports car. The result is that all new 911 Carrera models impress with top values in terms of performance, driving fun and efficiency. 

Thanks to bi-turbocharging, the three-litre, six-cylinder engines in the 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Targa 4 achieve an output of 370 hp (272 kW) and a torque of 450 Nm, while output in the S models increases to 420 hp (309 kW) and torque to 500 Nm. 

This gives the driver an added bonus of 20 hp (15 kW) to convert into driving fun. The greater power of the Carrera S models comes from turbochargers with modified compressors, a specific exhaust system and tuned engine management.

In combination with the now electro-hydraulically controlled all-wheel drive, the 911 Carrera 4 for the first time even achieves better acceleration values than its rear-wheel-drive counterparts. 

Equipped with the options of PDK and Sport Chrono package, the 911 Carrera 4 sprints from zero to 62 mph in 4.1 seconds (0.4 seconds less than its predecessor model), with the S model registering 3.8 seconds (0.3 seconds less). 

The cabriolet S and the 911 Targa 4 with comparable equipment need just 0.2 seconds longer – the time it takes to blink. Top speeds vary according to model and equipment between 178 mph and 189 mph.

Traditionally, every new generation of engines from Porsche combines more output with less consumption. Consequently, fuel consumption in the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet with PDK rises to a combined 36 mpg (previously 32.5 mpg). The models with the most significant improvements are the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet and 911 Targa 4S, each with PDK, in which average consumption rises to a combined 35 mpg (previously 30.7 mpg).

Inherited from the 918 Spyder: Sport Chrono package with mode switch

In conjunction with the optional Sport Chrono Package, the new 911 models now have a mode switch on the steering wheel for the first time, which has been derived from the 918 Spyder hybrid supercar. 

The mode switch consists of a rotary selector with four positions for the driving modes “Normal”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus” and “Individual”. Using the latter setting, drivers can configure their own individual vehicle set-up, allowing them to adjust, for example, PASM, active engine mounts, PDK shifting strategy and sports exhaust system if fitted. In combination with the PDK transmission, the mode switch has an additional control, called the “Sport Response Button”. 

When this button is pressed, the drivetrain is pre-conditioned for maximum acceleration for 20 seconds, for example in order to carry out overtaking manoeuvres. For this purpose, the optimum gear is engaged and the engine management adjusted to an even more spontaneous response for a short time.

Re-engineered PASM chassis with 10-millimetre lower ride height as standard

A Porsche 911 with all-wheel drive stands for the commendable combination of traction and driving safety with sporty driving performance. In this new generation, Porsche reconciles these contrasts even further. 

Firstly, the electro-hydraulically controlled all-wheel drive responds with even more speed and sensitivity thanks to the technology adopted from the 911 Turbo. This especially enhances directional stability during extremely sporty driving without sacrificing any agility. Harmony between the re-engineered all-wheel drive and the retuned PASM chassis with its ten-millimetre lower ride height is thus even better. 

It is fitted as standard to all Carrera models and increases stability during fast cornering. At the same time, the new shock absorber generation with its wider spread characteristics enhances comfort thanks to its even more refined responsiveness, yet it also improves car body control during dynamic driving.

The active rear-axle steering that is available as an option for the Carrera S marks the adoption of chassis technology from the 911 Turbo and 911 GT3. 

It increases the turn-in agility of the 911. In addition, it leads to even higher driving stability when changing lanes at high speeds. At the same time, it ensures greater manoeuvrability in city traffic thanks to the 0.4-metre reduction in turning circle. 

The improved handling is transmitted to the driver via the new steering wheel generation with a design based on that found in the 918 Spyder. The basic steering wheel has a diameter of 375-millimetres; the optional GT sports steering wheel measures 360-millimetres. 

For useful everyday practicality, Porsche supplies a hydraulic lift system with integrated lifting cylinders in the struts of the front axle. Pressing a button increases the ground clearance at the front spoiler lip by 40-millimetres within five seconds and thus prevents the vehicle underbody from hitting the ground, such as when negotiating steep garage exits.

Connectivity and infotainment system: PCM with multi-touch display and new functions

The completely new PCM connectivity and infotainment system included as a standard feature integrates new functions around the multi-touch display in the centre console that now has a seven-inch format. 

Also fitted as standard, the navigation system can be operated like a smartphone and can even process handwritten input. Drivers can access real-time traffic information, which allows them to gain an overview of the traffic situation in their area and on their route. In addition, mobile phones and smartphones can now be integrated more quickly, easily and extensively than before via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or cable. 

This means that both vehicle-related services such as remote retrieval of vehicle data and also Internet-based services such as Google Street View and Internet radio are available. These services are being constantly expanded and improved.

The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and Targa 4 models are on sale now from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland. First deliveries will begin in early 2016.

Recommended retail prices as follows:

UK

Carrera 4 - £81,398 RRP

Carrera 4 Cabriolet - £90,240 RRP

Carrera 4S - £90,843 RRP

Carrera 4S Cabriolet - £99,684 RRP

Targa 4 - £90,240 RRP

Targa 4S - £99,684 RRP

Ireland

Carrera 4 - €146,493 RRP

Carrera 4 Cabriolet - €162,406 RRP

Carrera 4S - €163,491 RRP

Carrera 4S Cabriolet - €179,402 RRP

Targa 4 - €162,406 RRP

Targa 4S - €179,402 RRP

Every new Porsche customer will also benefit from the opportunity to get aquainted with the breadth of dynamic attributes offered by these new 911 models courtesy of a complimentary driving course at the the Porsche Experience Centre Silverstone.

189mph, V8, 750Nm of Torque, 0-62 in 3.8 secs, Supercar pace &, oh yes, Luxury, that's the new AUDI S8.

V8 TFSI engine boosted by 85PS and up to 750Nm of torque endows flagship Audi S8 plus sports saloon with a power output equivalent to almost seven A1 1.0 TFSI models

• 4.0 V8 TFSI engine produces 605 PS and up to 700Nm in normal operation – overboost function increases to torque to 750Nm, the highest output of any Audi on sale
• S8 plus has the highest power-to-weight ratio of any premium sports saloon with all-wheel drive at 293 PS per tonne
• 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds, making the S8 plus the fastest accelerating Audi S model in the range and the fastest S8 ever
• Electronically limited 155mph top speed can be derestricted to 189mph
• Sports exhaust, power door closure, unique 21-inch alloy wheels and carbon fibre front spoiler lip and side flaps form part of standard UK specification
• Pricing starts at £97,700 OTR and ordering opens in October

Supercar pace and archetypal Audi A8 luxury converge in the Audi S8 plus, a new evolution of the already formidable S8 performance saloon developed using the combined expertise of Audi and its specialist high performance division quattro GmbH. 

Ramping up power from the 520PS offered by the ‘standard’ S8 to an intoxicating 605PS, the S8 plus is also capable of producing up to 750Nm of torque on demand - the highest output of any Audi in the current model range. 

It will open for ordering in October, priced from £97,700 OTR, and first UK deliveries are expected to commence in January 2016.

Encased by the lightweight, predominantly aluminium Audi Space Frame, which in isolation weighs just 231kg, is a modified version of the 4.0 TFSI engine already used to power the current 520PS S8. 

This sonorous V8 biturbo unit has been extensively modified and gains special engine management control with speed and charge pressure boosting to its modified exhaust valves. The inner geometry of the turbocharger has also been optimised for efficiency.

An overboost function facilitates the maximum torque elevation from 700Nm (516.3 lb-ft) to a muscular 750Nm (553.2 lb-ft) when required. As a result, a mere 3.8 seconds is all it takes for the stately super saloon to blast past 62 mph, after which it swiftly pulls towards an electronically limited 155mph top speed. 

Upon choosing the optional dynamic package, top speed increases to 189mph, and fade-resistant carbon-fibre reinforced ceramic brakes are added, featuring brake calipers finished in anthracite-grey with the Audi ceramic logo.

The full force of this prodigious output is transmitted to the road via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. A sports differential apportions the torque between the rear wheels for optimum directional stability. Chassis highlights include the S sports adaptive air suspension and dynamic steering, both of which have been tuned specifically for the S8 plus. 

UK specification models are fitted with 21-inch alloy wheels in a unique high-gloss black double-spoke design shod with specially designed size 275/35 tyres.

The standard dual-branch sports exhaust system opens out into two oval high-gloss black tailpipes on the left and right. It is modified by quattro GmbH and gives the S8 plus an unmistakable V8 sound.

Sumptuous specification

Carbon fibre is also used on the flaps in the side air inlets and the blade on the front apron. The rear diffuser, Singleframe front grille, air inlets and window trims form part of the black styling package, as do the mirror housings. 

Distinctive design characteristics of the S8 plus also include darkened tail lights and a rear lip spoiler in body colour. As an option, the mirror housings and rear spoiler can also be specified in carbon fibre.

Subtle S8 logos adorn  the front and rear with V8 T badges on the front wings. A matt-effect paint finish in floret silver is exclusively available on the S8 plus. All of the colours offered on the S8 are also offered for the S8 plus.

Matrix LED headlights are standard, complemented by dynamic turn signals front and rear. These state-of-the-art lights use mapping data from the MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch and other sensors to  individually dim or illuminate the 25 small, individual LEDs as needed. They project an extremely broad pool of light without causing glare to oncoming traffic.

Inside, the S sports comfort sport seats with 22-way adjustability and memory function can be exclusively upholstered in black full-leather with contrasting stitching and piping in Arras red as an option, along with the headlining and rear parcel shelf in black Alcantara.

A contrasting red thread woven into the upper inlay can also be specified in favour of the carbon atlas inlays fitted as standard. Black piano paint trims the gear selector lever of the tiptronic and the centre console. Characteristic of the interior of the S models are the round instruments with grey dials and white needles and the stainless steel pedals.

Like the more familiar S8 the new plus model is built exclusively on the ‘standard’ wheelbase. It offers extensive standard features over and above its 520PS counterpart’s already exhaustive list. 

In addition to highlights like the power-operated hands-free boot lid, advanced key, 14-speaker BOSE surround system and advanced parking system with top view camera, the plus version gains privacy glass, power door closure and adaptive cruise control with Audi pre-sense front.