Audi is making waves in the South African automotive scene with the debut of its latest performance powerhouses, the Audi RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance. These high-performance models are taking the spotlight at the Audi driving experience event held at the iconic Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit. South African media and customers are getting an exclusive first look at these new Audi RS offerings, which promise to redefine power and precision in the local market.
Unleashing Unprecedented Power
Audi has always been synonymous with performance, and the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance are no exceptions. These models pack a formidable punch under the hood, thanks to a 4.0-litre V8 biturbo TFSI engine that now generates a staggering 463 kW of power and a maximum torque of 850 Nm. South African enthusiasts can expect an adrenaline-inducing experience like never before.
Audi has left no stone unturned when it comes to enhancing performance. The 4.0 TFSI engine now features larger turbochargers and an increased boost pressure of 2.6 bar, delivering an additional 22 kW of power and 50 Nm more torque compared to previous models. As a result, the performance models can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 3.4 seconds, making them 0.2 seconds quicker than their non-performance counterparts (which are no longer available in South Africa).
A Sonic Symphony of Speed
Less insulation between the engine compartment, interior, and the rear of the vehicle ensures that the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance provide an exhilarating auditory experience. This reduction in insulation not only delights enthusiasts with an exciting, next-level sound but also shaves off eight kilograms of weight. The RS 6 Avant performance weighs in at 2,090 kg, while the RS 7 Sportback performance clocks in at 2,065 kg.
Precision at Every Turn
To further elevate driving dynamics, Audi has introduced a new self-locking centre differential. This system efficiently distributes power from the 4.0 TFSI engine through an eight-speed tiptronic transmission to the permanent all-wheel drive quattro setup. With a rear-biased distribution of 40:60, the self-locking centre differential can shift more torque to the axle with better traction when slippage occurs, offering up to 70 percent to the front axle and 85 percent to the rear axle. The result is more precise cornering and reduced understeering, providing passengers with an agile and exhilarating driving experience.
Lighter, Faster, and More Responsive
The RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance ride on standard 22-inch matte titanium grey, diamond-turned wheels, which are also available in burnished glossy metallic black, matte black, or matte neodymium gold. These lightweight wheels, inspired by motorsport, are around five kilograms lighter than the previous 22-inch aluminum wheels. This significant reduction in unsprung mass improves throttle response and overall handling precision.
Adding to the performance equation, high-performance Continental Sport Contact 7 285/30 tires offer exceptional grip on both dry and wet surfaces, reducing understeer during high-speed cornering. Additionally, these tires contribute to a shorter braking distance, cutting up to two meters off the stopping distance when braking from 100 to 0 km/h.
Tailored Performance Modes
The Audi drive select dynamic handling system allows drivers to tailor the vehicle's character to their preferences. Six profiles are available, including efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic, and two RS-specific RS1 and RS2 modes. These modes offer a unique driving experience, with features such as automatic coasting in the efficiency profile at speeds of up to 160 km/h, eliminating fuel consumption and drag torque from the engine.
Exquisite Exterior and Interior
The RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance come in a palette of 16 exterior colors, including metallic and matte Ascari Blue and matte Dew Silver for the first time. These performance models flaunt standard RS exterior components in matte grey, adding a touch of aggressiveness. Customers can also opt for a matte carbon/black styling package to further enhance the vehicle's aesthetics.
Inside, the interior receives a refresh with new RS design packages in grey, red, and blue. Alcantara black steering wheel rims feature contrasting stitching in Mercato blue, and the floor mats, center console sides, and selector lever cuff also boast blue contrast stitching. High-quality Valcona leather upholstery with perforated honeycomb stitching and contrasting stitching in Mercato blue adorns the sports seats. An entrance LED in the front doors projects the "RS performance" lettering onto the ground beside the car, adding a touch of exclusivity.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The standard 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus displays have been upgraded to include a blinking shift indicator in manual transmission mode, mimicking motorsport cues by changing the RPM display from green to yellow to red, indicating the optimal time to shift gears. Additionally, the launch control feature has been enhanced to signal the ideal moment to accelerate off the line, complete with new traffic light icons.
South African Pricing
The Audi RS 6 Avant performance is priced at R 2,332,700, while the Audi RS 7 Sportback performance is available for R 2,444,500. These prices include a 5-year/100,000 km Audi Freeway Plan, ensuring peace of mind for South African customers seeking the pinnacle of performance and luxury.
