First introduced 12 years ago, the RS 4 Avant is a modern classic. Audi now presents the third generation of the car, with a high-revving V8 FSI developing 331 kW (450 hp), a high-performance drivetrain and a diverse range of assistance and infotainment technologies. Like all RS models, the new RS 4 Avant is a sports car for everyday use. It combines strong performance with unrestricted utility.

The new Audi RS 4 Avant is immensely powerful. Its 4.2 FSI produces 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm, with 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque available between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. The normally aspirated, high-revving V8 accelerates the top-of-the-line Avant from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 4.7 seconds on its way to a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). This can be increased to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) upon request. However, average fuel consumption is a mere 10.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (21.98 US mpg).

With its long top gear, the standard seven-speed S tronic contributes to the good fuel economy. Launch Control manages starts with optimal traction at the push of a button. As with every Audi RS model, the engine’s power flows to all four wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, here in the latest stage of development with the self-locking crown gear center differential and torque vectoring. Audi also offers the optional sport differential, which actively distributes the power between the rear wheels.

The suspension of the RS 4 Avant is made largely of aluminum. The body is lowered by 20 millimeters (0.79 in) compared with the A4 Avant. The new electromechanical power steering is highly efficient and provides excellent road feedback.

The 19-inch, forged alloy wheels are fitted with 265/35-series tires. 20-inch wheels are available as an option. The brake system features large, internally vented discs with an innovative wave design; the front calipers each have eight pistons.

Carbon fiber-ceramic discs are available up front upon request. The electronic stabilization control (ESC) has a Sport mode and can be deactivated entirely, if necessary.

Dynamic: sport suspension plus with DRC
The Audi drive select dynamic system is standard. Dynamic steering, the sport differential and the sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) are available as options. The latter is a purely hydraulic system without any lag, whose damping can be switched between the three characteristics comfort, auto and dynamic via Audi drive select.

The design of the new Audi RS 4 Avant also expresses its dynamic nature. The wedge-shaped headlights use xenon plus technology, and the LED daytime running lights constitute a narrow brace. The upper corners of the large single-frame grille are tapered. Sharp creases divide the engine hood, and large air inlets structure the distinctive front skirt. The rear lights feature LED technology.

The elegant interior is entirely in black. Carbon inlays are standard, with aluminum, piano finish or stainless steel mesh available as options. The leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom, and the head restraints are integrated into the backs of the S sport seats. Luggage capacity ranges between 490 and 1,430 liters (17.30 and 50.50 cubic feet), depending on the position of the rear seatbacks.

All display and control elements in the new RS 4 Avant, up to and including the optional MMI navigation plus, impress with their fine finish and clear ergonomics. Audi also offers a wide selection of modern driver assistance systems and infotainment modules as options. These include the Bang & Olufsen sound system and the Bluetooth online car phone, which delivers the tailored services of Audi connect to the car.

The RS 4 will arrive at dealerships this fall, with prices in Germany starting at €76,600.

Story by Audi AG