Audi S & RS Sports Car Models

1st: Audi RS2 Avant

Kickstarted the trend of high-performance wagons

Audi RS2 Avant (1994-1995)

The Audi RS2 Avant, introduced in 1994 marked the beginning of Audi's RS model line. It was a collaborative effort between Audi and Porsche, built on the Audi 80 Avant chassis. This collaboration is evident in the RS2's unique blend of practicality and sports car performance. Today, the RS2 Avant is celebrated as a cult classic among automotive enthusiasts, valued for its rarity, performance, and the unique collaboration between Audi and Porsche that it represents. Its blend of everyday usability with remarkable performance capabilities has left a lasting impact on the automotive landscape, making it a cherished model in the history of performance cars.

The RS2 Avant was produced from 1994 to 1995, assembled at Porsche's Rossle-Bau plant in Zuffenhausen, Germany. Porsche contributed not only to the engineering but also to the RS2's braking, suspension, and styling enhancements. Notably, the RS2 featured Porsche-branded brake calipers, wheels resembling those from the Porsche 911 Turbo of the era, and side mirrors borrowed from the Porsche 964. Under the hood, the RS2 Avant was powered by a modified version of Audi's 2.2-liter inline-five turbocharged engine, producing 311 horsepower and 410 Nm of torque. This engine was coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission, propelling the RS2 from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds, an impressive figure for its time and faster than many sports cars of the early '90s.

Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system was a key feature, providing the RS2 with exceptional grip and handling capabilities. The car also received upgraded brakes and suspension from Porsche, further enhancing its performance and driving dynamics.

2nd: Audi RS4 (B7)

Surprised us with its exceptional engine and handling

Audi RS4 (2006-2008)

The Audi RS4 (B7) was introduced in 2006 and continued production through 2008, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality that appealed to enthusiasts looking for a car that could do it all. The B7 RS4 represented the second generation of the RS4 model, following the original B5 RS4. The reason this makes our list is that it is still probably the best handling Audi ever (other than the R8 of course).

The heart of the B7 RS4 is a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 420 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. This engine features FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) technology, which contributed to its high power output and responsiveness. The RS4 was equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to all four wheels via Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. This setup was designed to provide optimal traction and handling in various driving conditions.

The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.8 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (which could be optionally increased to 174 mph under Audi's "RS" performance package). The RS4 featured a sport-tuned suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) for improved handling and stability. It also came with larger brakes than the standard A4, including cross-drilled rotors and eight-piston calipers at the front, to ensure adequate stopping power for its increased performance.

It was an amazing all-rounder, managing to serve as a comfortable daily driver while also offering exhilarating performance and handling characteristics. Its naturally aspirated V8 engine, manual transmission, and quattro all-wheel drive made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.

3rd: 2020 Audi RS6 Avant

A rocket-ship supercar you can use every day.

Audi RS6 Avant (2020-present)

The Audi RS6 Avant, specifically in its 2020-present iteration, represents the latest in a long line of high-performance estate cars from Audi's RS division. Known for blending practicality with supercar-rivaling performance, the RS6 Avant continues to push the boundaries of what is expected from a family wagon.

At the heart of the 2020-present Audi RS6 Avant is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This powertrain produces an impressive 591 horsepower and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, distributing power to all four wheels through Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. This setup enables the RS6 Avant to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, with a top speed that can be optionally increased to as much as 190 mph (305 km/h) with the right performance packages.

Despite its performance credentials, the RS6 Avant remains a practical family car. It offers a spacious cabin with ample room for passengers and a generous luggage compartment, making it suitable for everyday use, long road trips, or spirited driving adventures.

The 2020-present Audi RS6 Avant has been well-received by critics and enthusiasts alike, celebrated for its ability to offer supercar-like performance in a package that can comfortably accommodate a family and their luggage. Its combination of speed, luxury, and utility secures its place as a standout model in the high-performance estate market.

4th: 2022 Audi RS3

What we always wanted the RS3 to be.

Audi RS3 (2022-present)

The RS3 is available in both sedan and Sportback (hatchback) body styles, although the availability of these models can vary by market. The RS3 is known for its outstanding performance, aggressive styling, and advanced technology features, making it a highly sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts looking for a high-performance compact car.

The heart of the RS3 is a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder engine, a powerplant celebrated for its unique sound and impressive power output. This engine produces 400 horsepower and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. Paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, the RS3 delivers exhilarating performance. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, which can be optionally increased to 174 mph with the RS Dynamic package.

The RS3's chassis is tuned for dynamic driving, featuring RS sports suspension as standard. An optional RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control allows for a more customizable driving experience, adjusting the suspension's firmness on the fly. The car is equipped with powerful brakes, and a ceramic brake system is available as an option for even greater stopping power and durability under high-performance driving conditions.

The 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder engine is praised for its "explosive power" and "exhilarating soundtrack." Car and Driver notes its 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds, calling it "blisteringly quick." Top Gear finds the engine "warbles away," adding to the excitement. Reviewers laud the RS3's handling as "precise and responsive," with "consistent and strong grip." Top Gear commends the damping for its "natural" feel, making it a joy to drive on challenging roads. 

5th: 2009 Audi TT RS

Big power in a little package.

Audi TT RS (2009-2014)

It wasn't until the second generation that the TT got an RS version. It was as if people complained the TT had gone a bit soft, so Audi dropped a beast of a sports car on the market to shut them up. The TT RS got an all-new 340-hp turbocharged five-cylinder engine with 332 lb-ft of torque, a 10 mm lower ride height, 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, and reprogrammed modes.

It hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds through the manual transmission, while a new seven-speed DSG was offered in 2010. After accruing 11,000 signatures, a petition persuaded Audi to make the TT RS available in the US. It delivered the goods, and became a supercar slayer capable of hanging with the full-fat R8, particularly at altitude.

The ride quality is surprisingly good, the steering is quick and accurate if slightly anaesthetized and the brakes are suitably sharp and hard. The ESP is infuriatingly intrusive; you can kill it altogether, but an intermediate option stops the engine intervention completely and raises the braking threshold so you can drive hard without interference. Now you have an exceptionally competent  – if not thrilling – chassis. 

The TT RS has masses of grunt, some genuinely impressive performance figures, a chassis that’s up to the job – and all without compromising the base car’s essential metrosexual appeal. 

6th: 2013 Audi RS6 Avant

A brilliant family car and brilliant performance car.

Audi RS6 Avant (2013-2018)

The 2013 Audi RS6 Avant was part of the third generation of the RS6, known for its significant performance upgrades and technological advancements over its predecessor. Once again, the goal was combining high-performance with the practicality of an estate car.

The 2013 RS6 Avant is powered by a 4.0-liter TFSI twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which represented a downsizing from the previous generation's 5.0-liter V10. Despite the smaller engine size, the V8 in the 2013 model delivers impressive performance figures, producing 560 horsepower and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. This powerplant enables the RS6 Avant to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), which can be increased to 280 km/h (174 mph) with the optional Dynamic package or up to 305 km/h (189 mph) with the Dynamic Plus package.

Despite its focus on high performance, the 2013 RS6 Avant does not sacrifice practicality. It offers ample cabin space, a comfortable ride for long journeys, and a generous boot capacity, making it suitable for everyday use and family duties.

The 2013 Audi RS6 Avant was highly praised for its incredible acceleration, dynamic handling capabilities, and practicality as a family estate car. It was seen as a benchmark in the high-performance wagon category.

7th: 2021 Audi RS e-tron GT

Blisteringly quick, beautifully crafted, and very exciting. 

Audi RS e-tron GT (2021-present)

The 2021 Audi RS e-tron GT represents Audi's foray into the high-performance electric vehicle (EV) segment, showcasing the brand's commitment to electrification without compromising on performance, luxury, or driving dynamics. This model is part of Audi's e-tron lineup, which signifies the brand's electric and hybrid vehicles, and it shares its platform with the Porsche Taycan, a result of the collaboration within the Volkswagen Group.

The RS e-tron GT is equipped with a dual-motor setup, featuring one electric motor at the front and another at the rear, enabling all-wheel drive. This configuration delivers a combined output of 590 horsepower (440 kW), which can be temporarily boosted to 637 horsepower (475 kW) with the overboost function available during launch control. This power allows the RS e-tron GT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just about 3.1 seconds.

The car uses an innovative two-speed transmission on the rear axle, a rarity among electric vehicles, which helps optimize both acceleration and efficiency at higher speeds. The RS e-tron GT is powered by an 800-volt electrical system, enabling faster charging rates and reducing charging times. It's capable of charging from 5% to 80% in just about 22.5 minutes under ideal conditions with a high-power DC fast charger.

The 2021 Audi RS e-tron GT has been well-received for its combination of breathtaking performance, cutting-edge technology, and sustainability. It represents a significant step forward in Audi's e-tron electrification strategy and competes directly with other high-performance electric vehicles, such as the Tesla Model S Plaid and the Porsche Taycan Turbo.

By offering supercar-level performance in an electric package, the RS e-tron GT demonstrates Audi's vision for the future of mobility, where environmental responsibility and driving pleasure coexist. This model sets a new benchmark for electric performance vehicles and underscores Audi's commitment to becoming a leading electric vehicle manufacturer.

8th: Audi RS Q8

A Classier Looking Lamborghini Urus.

Audi RS Q8 (2021-present)

Audi’s top of the line SUV is the RS Q8, a 600 hp powerhouse that is essentially a Lamborghini Urus in drag. It shares the same 4.0L twin turbo V8 engine that produces 600 PS (441 kW) of power and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque in this guise. That’s not far off it’s Lamborghini cousin’s numbers, and results in a 0-62 mph acceleration of 3.8 seconds and 0-125 mph in 13.7 seconds. Not bad for a heavy SUV which tips the scales at over 5,000 lbs.

The sporting credentials of the RS Q8 don’t stop there, with Audi claiming a 7m 42s lap time of the Nurburgring Nordschliefe. That is around 5 seconds faster than what the Urus achieved. Making use of that 600 horsepower is Audi quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox and mechanical centre differential. Power and torque is distributed in a 40:60 split front to rear, with up to 75 percent able to power the front and 85 percent for the rears if slip is detected. Five link suspension is used for all four corners with adaptive air suspension and active damping available as standard, allowing the RS Q8 90mm of ride height variation.

Despite its size, the car is praised for its "sharp and responsive steering" and "impressive cornering ability." Autocar notes the "remarkable blend of performance and comfort," while Carwow commends its "manoeuvrability" for a large SUV. The cabin receives high marks for its "top-notch materials," "supportive and comfortable seats," and ample legroom and headroom. Motor Trend appreciates the "opulent" feel, while Auto Express highlights the "tech-laden" features.