Audi RS6 and RS7 performance on sale

MORE powerful, dynamically sharper, and faster than their predecessors, the Audi RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback performance are now available locally priced from $241,500 and $248,500 respectively, plus on-road costs, a $9000 increase over the outgoing range.

Replacing the “non-performance” duo in local showrooms, the formidable performance twins feature increased turbocharger boost pressure (up from 2.4 to 2.6 bar) in the twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine to now offer 463kW of power (+22kW) and 850Nm (+50Nm).

The additional output results in a 0-100km/h sprint now 0.2 seconds quicker than before, Audi quoting a 3.4-second time for both body styles. Top speed is electronically capped to 280km/h.

Power continues to be put to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system (which can now send up to 85 per cent of drive to the rear or 70 per cent to the front) with a now more compact self-locking centre differential and torque converter eight-speed automatic transmission, the latter with revised software to enable even faster shift times.

Audi’s drive select dynamic handling system now allows the driver to control the vehicles’ character through four pre-set and two customisable profiles.

With idle-stop, cylinder-on-demand, and 48-volt mild hybrid technology the 4.0 TFSI engine is also more economical than before, consuming 11.8 litres per 100km (with CO2 emissions of 269 grams per kilometre).

“These cars are the flagship of the RS internal combustion line-up with the most powerful V8 ever offered by Audi,” explained Audi Australia senior product planning executive, Chris Kwok.

“The models also offer dynamic all-wheel steering with RS specific tuning … standard RS adaptive air suspension, which you can adjust to suit your driving style, and you can also option Dynamic Ride Control which uses a hydraulic system to minimise pitch movements in the car.

“On the topic of stopping, standard is the RS high performance braking system with red painted callipers – they are a 10-piston calliper – and rotors measuring 420mm in the front. These can be upgraded to the RS ceramic braking system where the front discs are 440mm, and choosing this option means you’ll save 34kg in unsprung mass.”

For RS enthusiasts, the performance duo is set to get pulses racing with even greater focus on sensory feedback. Reduced sound insulation levels promise greater mechanical theatre than before, while simultaneously allowing greater enjoyment from the sport exhaust system.

As was the case with the forerunners to the RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, the performance models are highly specified with extensive appearance, amenity, comfort, infotainment, and safety inclusions.

Visually, the RS6 Avant performance and RS7 Sportback performance are identified by a special wheel and tyre package with gloss silver and black metallic 22-inch 5-Y-spoke forged and milled alloy wheels, each 5kg lighter than those of the regular model.

The new wheels are shod with Continental Sport Contact 7 rubber in a 285/30 profile Audi says, “equals or exceeds the previous tyres’ capabilities”.

Matt grey exterior, matt aluminium or matt carbon black exterior elements are available optionally, each altering the look of the front spoiler, front side flaps, side sill inserts, rear diffuser insert, trim strips on the side windows, wing mirror caps, roof rails (Avant only), Audi rings and exterior badging.

Audi will further offer matt effect paint finish (cost option) for the first time, alongside a new Ascari Blue finish available in metallic or matt.

Inside, the addition of a blue RS design package – joining grey and red – join sport seats in Valcona leather upholstery with three-stage heating and ventilation (front) and RS performance welcome lighting. A 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D premium audio system with 1820-watt output is further available.

The performance duo is offered with Audi’s regular warranty and roadside assistance program, as well as five-year service plans, and an extendable factory warranty offering coverage for up to nine years. Audi owners also receive complementary membership during the warranty period to Audi Experience experiences and events.

“Audi has always excelled at producing high-performance cars that can impress as equally on track as they do on a day-to-day commute,” said Audi Australia director, Jeff Mannering.

“Astoundingly, we have managed to build upon what was already a pair of very impressive models for a flawless drive with highly desirable packaging.

“Both the Audi RS6 performance and Audi RS7 performance would be a welcome addition to any Australian garage; sure to leave a lasting impression on those lucky enough to drive one.”

Visit GoAuto again soon for our drive impressions of the Audi RS6 Avant performance.

2024 Audi RS6 and RS7 performance pricing*: