Audi has promised to only introduce electric vehicles from 2026, but the internal combustion engine is still around. To level up the RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback, Four Rings introduced a hotter Performance derivative with an upgraded version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine. The powerful TFSI V8 now produces 621 horsepower (463 kilowatts) and 850 Newton-meters (625 pound-feet) of torque sent to the Quattro system.
Ingolstadt engineers had increased output by 30 hp and 50 Nm (35 lb-ft) compared to the standard model. Thanks to newly unlocked muscles, the dynamic duo from Audi can now sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h) from a standstill in just 3.4 seconds or two tenths of a second faster than before. The RS6 Performance and RS7 Performance received the RS Dynamics Package as standard, increasing the top speed to 174 mph (280 km/h) and adding rear-wheel steering.
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As well as having a reworked engine, the RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback received a newly developed lighter and smaller self-locking center differential. Its job is to direct the engine’s power in a rear bias ratio as 60 percent of output is sent to the rear under normal driving conditions. Depending on the amount of traction available, up to 85 percent can go to the rear wheels or up to 70 percent to the front axle. This new hardware improves cornering handling and reduces the risk of understeering when the car is pushed hard.
The Performance model is fitted as standard with 21-inch cast aluminum wheels which can be upgraded to 22-inch sets. The novelty here is represented by a light weight of 22 inches which is manufactured using a high-tech forge milling process to reduce the weight of about five kilograms (11 pounds) compared to regular 22-inch wheels.
As a result, a weight reduction of 20 kg (44 lbs) was achieved. The new wheels come with Continental Sport Contact 7 285/30 tires which promise better grip on dry and wet roads while reducing the distance required to come to a complete stop from 62 mph (100 km/h) to two meters (6.5 ft). ). ).
A further 34 kg (75 lbs) can be eliminated by changing the ceramic brakes to replace the standard steel set. Measuring 440 mm front and 370 mm rear, lighter brakes with red, blue or gray calipers are part of the optional RS Dynamic Plus Package, which also increases the top speed to 190 mph (305 km/h).
The RS6 Avant and RS7 Sportback in Performance form can be had with a choice of 16 exterior colors, including the new Ascari Blue with a matte or metallic finish and the matte-only Dew Silver. To differentiate the car from the regular model, Audi painted several parts in matte gray: the front spoiler and front side flaps, mirror caps, side sill inserts, roof rails, side window trim and rear diffuser. Alternatively, an optional carbon/matte black optics package darkens the side window trim and roof rails while the chrome Audi logo can also be painted black.
Not much has changed on the inside as both RS models now have contrasting blue accents and several RS design packages to choose from. The seats are upholstered in perforated Valcona leather with honeycomb stitching while the sides of the center console and selector lever are covered in Dinamica microfiber. This is a material that uses about 45 percent recycled PET fiber.
For the 12.3-inch digital driver screen, Audi has embedded a gearshift indicator that flashes when the eight-speed tiptronic transmission is in manual mode. It also appears when the launch control system is activated illustrating the exact moment to accelerate off course. As a final touch, an LED projector mounted on the front door displays the words “RS Performance”.
Pricing for the US market hasn’t been disclosed, but expect to pay more than the standard 2023 RS6 Avant available from $118,900. The regular 2023 RS7 Sportback starts at $120,900.
