It’s the most sporty, sexiest RS7 yet.
Americans who were excited about the RS6 avant have more to look forward. Audi’s new RS7 Sportback was unveiled today ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show. It boasts a staggering 591 horsepower (441 kilowatts), and 590 pound-feet (800 Newton-meters), making it the most powerful RS7 Sportback yet. Here’s what’s new.
The 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged hybridized V8 provides the power. The new RS7 Sportback’s 48-volt electrical system is identical to its sibling, RS6 Avant. It produces significant oomph. The RS7 can sprint at 62 miles per hour (100 km/h) in 3.6 seconds. And it has an electronically limited top speed (155 mph/250 kmh) of 155 mph. The Dynamic and Dynamic Plus packages increase that speed to 174 (280), and 189.5 (305 kmh), respectively.
The RS7 uses an adaptive air suspension, just like the RS6 Avant. The RS7 is 0.8 inches (20 mm) lower than the A7 in its default setting. To improve airflow, the RS7 drops another 0.4 inches (10mm) at speeds of 74.6 mph (120 kmh). The RS7 can be raised with a special “lift mode”, which increases the overall ride height by 0.8 inches (20 mm). This eliminates scraping the nose when you are on steep slopes.
The RS7 Sportback’s optional RS Sport suspension makes it even more agile. Dynamic ride control is also available. Audi does not say how much the suspension system reduces pitch or body roll, but it is known that new dampers with integrated valves and more aggressive drive settings, including RS-specific RS1-RS2 drive modes, have made it even more agile.
The RS7 Sportback’s stunning styling and power are second to its impressive agility and power. Both from the inside and outside. The huge blacked out grille from other RS models is still in place. It’s flanked on each side by three triangular vents and one smaller vent that funnels air under the hood. Standard comes with a set of 10-spoke 21-inch wheels wrapped in 275/35 tires. However, buyers can choose larger 22-inch RS wheels with sticker tire (285/30), or even RS carbon ceramic brakes that drop 75 pounds (34 kg) from their steel counterparts.
The interior of the RS7 features Audi’s MMI dual touchscreen interface, virtual cockpit and RS logos. The RS7’s flat-bottomed, fully-perforated wheel and the Nappa leather black RS sports bucket seats are unique.
There are 13 exterior colors available for the Audi RS7, including two RS shades, Nardo grey and Sebring Black. It will be available in the U.S. in 2020. No word yet on pricing.