Audi South Africa has introduced updated versions of its RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance. Let's look at what you need to know about these newcomers!
Related: Audi RS 7 Sportback (2021) Review – Everything a fast Audi should be, and more!
More power!
The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine now produces 463 kW and 850 Nm of torque, some 22kW and 50Nm more than before thanks to larger turbochargers and a higher boot pressure of 2.4 bar. As a result, the 0 to 100 km/h has been lowered by 0.2 seconds to just 3.4 seconds!
Less weight!
Audi has removed unnecessary weight by reducing insulation between the vehicle's engine compartment, interior, and rear. This lightens the car by eight kilograms and is said to make the engine more audible from inside the cabin. The RS 6 Avant performance now weighs 2 090 kg, while the RS 7 Sportback performance weighs 2 065 kg. There has also been the addition of a lighter self-locking centre differential which is said to improve handling and reduce understeer.
New wheels
Both models now feature 22-inch wheels finished in matte titanium grey and are said to aid in brake cooling, and thanks to a lighter weight, allow the products to stop faster. The tyre compound chosen for the RS models is the Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres measuring 285/30.
New driving modes!
The Audi drive select dynamic handling system now offers six available profiles—efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic, and two customizable RS-specific modes (RS1 and RS2). The driving modes have been updated too, for instance, the coasting mode now activates exclusively in the efficiency profile, allowing the vehicle to switch off the combustion engine and coast without fuel consumption at speeds up to 160 km/h. In S mode, updated engine control unit software ensures tighter load changes when the "dynamic" drive select mode or driving mode S is engaged. The transmission control unit software contributes to faster shifting times and an expanded range between various driving modes too.
Colour options
Customers can choose from a total of 16 exterior colours, including metallic and matte options such as Ascari Blue and Dew Silver. The performance models feature standard RS exterior components in matte grey, such as the exterior mirrors, front spoiler, front side flaps, side sill inserts, roof rails, and trim on the side windows and rear diffuser. For those seeking a different look, a matte carbon/black styling package is available, which includes black roof rails and trim on the side windows.
Inside, the RS design packages now offer a new blue colour option in addition to the existing grey and red variants. Customers can opt for RS design packages with seat centre panels in grey, red, or blue inlays. The 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus offers new features, including a blinking shift indicator in manual transmission mode. Launch Control is now indicated by new traffic light icons.
Pricing
Audi RS 6 Avant performance starts at R 2 332 700*
Audi RS 7 Sportback performance: R 2 444 500*
The 5-year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan is an optional extra
