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.

All-New AUDI R8, Pricing and Specs announced.

UK pricing and specification confirmed for fastest and most powerful series production Audi in history

• Second generation of the acclaimed supercar debuted in Geneva
• Available to order in the UK from May 2015 –  540PS V10 priced from £119,500 OTR, 610PS V10 Plus from £137,500 OTR - first deliveries in late 2015
• R8 V10 plus - 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds, 0-124mph in 9.9 seconds, top speed 205mph, combined MPG 23.9
• Multimaterial Audi Space Frame construction helps to reduce weight by up to 50kg – 40% increase in body rigidity
• V10 FSI now with direct and indirect injection and Cylinder on Demand technology linked to latest start-stop system
• New development of quattro all-wheel-drive system with variable torque control
• New equipment additions include virtual cockpit, Audi drive select, Audi connect and front/rear park assist

Just days after the global premiere of the all-new Audi R8 at the Geneva Motor Show, potential customers in the UK can delve a little deeper into the detail behind the epic supercar now that pricing and specification have been confirmed by Audi UK. Power for the second generation line-up will be provided exclusively by a ten-cylinder FSI engine delivering 540PS in the ‘standard’ version and a mighty 610PS in the ‘Plus’ model – notable as the fastest and most powerful series production Audi in history. When they become available to order in May the R8 V10 will be priced at  £119,500 OTR and the R8 V10 Plus at  £137,500 OTR.

As befits the dynamic spearhead of the Audi range the latest R8 will feature an exceptional specification. It starts externally with all-LED headlamps and LED tail lamps incorporating dynamic rear indicators with a scrolling function in the intended turn direction. In the V10 plus version the headlights are further enhanced by front dynamic indicators and laser spots for the high beams as standard, giving an extended field of vision and increased brightness, and by a high beam assist function for automatic alternation between low and high beam settings.

Both versions will be fitted with 19-inch wheels in exclusive designs as standard, and in the V10 Plus these are combined as standard with ceramic brake discs offering even more assured stopping power. 

For the first time R8 V10 plus customers will also have the option to upgrade to a 20-inch wheel. Naturally, each model is fitted with the latest-generation quattro all-wheel drive, which utilises an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch capable of sending up to 100 percent of torque to the front or rear axle depending on driving conditions.

R8 debut for acclaimed Audi virtual cockpit

Inside, Fine Nappa Leather-upholstered sports seats with electric adjustment for V10 models and sculpted bucket seats for the V10 plus will position the driver perfectly in relation to the new multi-function plus steering wheel and the Audi virtual cockpit, both of which make their R8 debut here. 

In the R8 V10 the new flat-bottomed steering wheel facilitates control of all the information and entertainment functions offered by the virtual cockpit, and also houses two ‘satellites’ incorporating the control buttons for the Audi drive select system and engine start-stop function, both of which are also new to the R8.

The Performance steering wheel in the Audi R8 V10 plus features two more satellites. One houses a button controlling the exhaust system’s sound-altering adjustable flaps, and the other the activation switch for the ‘performance mode’ which is standard for this version and optional for the V10,  along with a rotary wheel enabling selection of this mode’s individual ‘dry’, ‘wet’ and ‘snow’ programs. 

These programs support dynamic handling on dry, wet and snow-covered surfaces, making use of the ESC stabilisation control function.

The Audi virtual cockpit is set in a free-standing housing and presents all the information on its 12.3-inch display with elaborate and pin sharp graphics. The driver can toggle between different display modes and also adjust the digital instrument cluster to suit in individual mode.

In performance mode, the driver is presented with information on the driving programs, acceleration, deceleration and lateral forces as well as power and torque. The Audi virtual cockpit also displays a shift light which illuminates when the rev limit has been reached.

The driver operates the Audi virtual cockpit using the multifunction plus steering wheel, meaning there is no need to remove a hand from the steering wheel. Alternatively, operation is also possible via the touch wheel or the buttons in the centre console.

Audi connect for internet services as standard

Even more of the potential opened up by the state-of-the-art virtual cockpit can be enjoyed by going online in the new Audi R8 – the Audi connect interface is standard, and enables occupants to connect a smartphone or tablet via the system’s integrated Wi-Fi hotspot, and to make use of tailored online services from Audi connect delivered via the fast LTE (Long Term Evolution) network. MMI navigation plus is also standard, and is augmented by the MMI touch wheel with its fingertip-sensitive touch pad enabling easy ‘written’ entry of data into the system.

On the outside, the V10 is equipped with an electrically extending spoiler, while the R8 V10 plus gains a large fixed rear wing in carbon sigma, matching the finish of its  heated and folding exterior mirrors, sideblades, front spoiler lip and rear diffuser.

Further standard items include the front and rear parking assist system and light and rain sensors. To add visual impact to the other more immediately evident attributes of the sonorous mid-mounted 10-cylinder engine, both 540PS and 610 PS versions also feature an interior LED lighting package which illuminates the glass-covered engine compartment and the footwells.

The extensive list of options available for the new R8 features enhancements that further enrich the driving experience, including the sports exhaust, the magnetic ride adaptive damping system, laser spotlights for the all-LED headlights in 540PS versions (standard for the V10 plus) and bucket seats (also standard for V10 plus), as well as indulgences such as stunning 20-inch alloy wheels and a 500-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system.  Numerous interior decor upgrades and colour combinations for the body and sideblades can also be added to create a uniquely personal R8.  

All new R8 drivers will also receive a complimentary Audi Driving Experience at Silverstone. This full day training session will help owners to develop an intimate understanding of the car’s dynamics in the relative safety of the world famous Stowe and Grand Prix circuits.

The new AUDI RS 7 Sportback, sharper styling and swifter performance.

Mighty twin-turbo V8 engine retains its rightful place at the heart of the new-look RS 7 Sportback but is now even more efficient 

• New headlights and design details for a dynamic five-door coupé
• 4.0 TFSI with 560 PS and efficient CoD technology
•  Four per cent reduction in CO₂ emissions to 221g/km
• Fuel consumption improves by three per cent to 29.7mpg combined
• Board Member for Development Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg: “Audi RS 7 Sportback is an outstanding piece of sports equipment”

The RS 7 Sportback – the most potent five-door coupé in the Audi range - now looks even sharper and performs even more efficiently, yet no less formidably. The new generation RS 7 Sportback, which becomes available to order in the UK later this summer ahead of first deliveries in late 2014, combines subtle styling enhancements with new LED lighting, upgraded infotainment features and revisions to the 560 PS V8 TFSI powerplant which enable it to comply with new EU6 emissions regulations.

“The Audi RS 7 Sportback confirms the reputation of the RS models as the superior, top athletes of our brand,” states Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development of AUDI AG. “The combination of a powerful four‑litre V8 engine with Cylinder on Demand technology, quattro drive and intelligent lightweight design makes the RS 7 Sportback an outstanding piece of sports equipment for any fan of dynamic and yet efficient driving.”

Even at first glance, the Audi RS 7 Sportback reveals its dynamic character – the long bonnet, flowing C-pillars and the sharply sloping rear end form an aesthetic overall impression. New design details add striking touches. They include the Singleframe grille with the black honeycomb typical of RS models, with the corners now even sharper and more distinctive. Three optional packages – matt aluminium, gloss black and carbon – make the look of the RS 7 Sportback even more distinctive.

Subtle modifications have also been made to the bumper, with its distinctive air inlets. The headlights, also adapted to the new singleframe grille, now feature LED technology as standard. Matrix LED technology is available for the first time on the RS 7 Sportback, with integrated dynamic turn signals on the front and rear. The tail lights also have a new interior design. New to the paint palette are the colours Floret silver, metallic; Glacier white, metallic; Mythos black, metallic and Sepang blue, pearl effect.

In the elegant black interior, dominated by the RS sport seats, the designers have made judicious changes to the instrument cluster, including the air outlet controls of the vent nozzles, the shift paddles behind the steering wheel and the quattro emblem on the instrument panel. The standard MMI navigation plus with MMI touch now uses the modular infotainment platform of the latest generation; its highlight is an efficient graphics processor from Audi partner, Nvidia.

The EU6-compliant 4.0 TFSI engine in the revised Audi RS 7 Sportback provides the same prodigious 560 PS, with a constant 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft) of torque at engine speeds between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. The engine catapults the five-door coupé from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds; the optional dynamics packages allow top speeds of 174mph and 189mph respectively. On a combined cycle however, the resonant V8 twin-turbo returns up to 29.7mpg, and emits 221 grams of CO₂ per km. A key factor in this efficiency is the Cylinder on Demand (CoD) system, which can shut down four cylinders during partial load operation.

An eight-speed tiptronic transmission tuned for optimum  performance also features a tall final  gear to contribute to fuel efficiency. The might of the V8 engine is harnessed by the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system and used to best effect by the standard Sports differential, which apportions torque in precisely measured quantities between the rear wheels according to driving conditions.

RS adaptive air suspension is fitted as standard, together with adaptive damping, and is controlled via the Audi drive select driving dynamics system. Audi offers the tauter RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) as an alternative. A further option is dynamic steering, which continuously varies the steering ratio for greater agility.

The revised Audi RS 7 Sportback is fitted with 20-inch forged lightweight alloy wheels as a standard. Optional 21-inch cast aluminium wheels are available in three different colours. The four internally ventilated brake discs have a weight-saving wave design. Alternatively carbon fibre-ceramic discs are available as an option. Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) features a Sport mode that can be deactivated altogether if required.

Audi RS 7 Dynamic Edition arrives at New York.

• Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition to be introduced at NYIAS 
• Crimson Red stitching, extensive use of carbon fiber elements, and performance-oriented DRC® suspension highlight exclusive model
• The exclusive units are intended to showcase the Audi exclusive personalization program and will be arriving at dealerships this summer

The Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition will make its debut at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 and will begin arriving at dealerships in early summer. Highlights include such elements as Crimson Red safety belts and stitching throughout the interior. Tornado Red brake calipers, Carbon fiber elements, DRC suspension and sport exhaust. MSRP including destination and delivery is $146,045.

  

“The Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition exemplifies just some of the personalization options that are possible through our Audi exclusive program”, said Filip Brabec, Director of Product Planning, Audi of America. “The combination of our most powerful RS model ever and the added customized elements make this a truly special car to drive and to behold.”

The Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition combines all of the performance of the 560 horsepower RS 7 including the DRC suspension with elements of the exclusive customization program. The Black Valcona leather seats have the RS specific honeycomb stitch in Crimson Red matching the safety belts of the same color. Additional Crimson Red stitching can be found on the dashboard, gear shifter boot, center and door armrests as well as along the center console. The Crimson Red accents combine with the carbon fiber inlays to further amplify the performance character of the Audi exclusive RS 7 dynamic edition.

 

The exterior is highlighted by Tornado Red brake calipers with RS 7 logo and 21-inch Gloss Black wheels. Carbon fiber splitter, diffuser and carbon fiber engine cover further underline the performance character of the exclusive RS 7. Four exterior colors are available to complement the exclusive design elements: Ibis White, Suzuka Gray metallic, Daytona Gray pearl, Phantom Black pearl.  

The DRC system utilizes three-stage adjustable dampers that are hydraulically cross-linked and integrated into the Audi drive select system along with the standard rear sport differential for maximum performance driving. Dynamic steering adapts the steering boost and ratio to allow for more precise handling.  

The epitome of aesthetic design, innovative technology and track-tested performance, the five-door coupe is fitted with the twin-turbo 4.0 Liter TFSI® V8 engine, producing an astounding 560 hp that launches the RS 7 from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. At low to medium loads and engine speeds – with its innovative cylinder on demand™ technology – the RS 7 deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5 and 8 by closing their valves via electromechanical actuators. The 4.0 Liter TFSI engine runs in four-cylinder mode, providing up to 15% better fuel efficiency, while the active engine mounts remove any changes in vibration between eight and four-cylinder modes. Innovative solutions such as thermal management and cylinder on demand enable the RS 7 to achieve a respectable EPA estimated MPG of 16 city/27 highway/19 combined. The RS 7 is not subject to a gas guzzler tax.