Anyone that enjoys performance cars will have a certain level of respect for the Audi RS 4. The RS 4 made a return to the mainstream in 2006 in the violent, 4.2-litre V8 B7 version (8E) after a brief absence from the market.
The B7 was offered in three shapes, sedan, cabriolet and estate - which Audi calls an 'Avant'. Both subsequent models, the B8 and current B9 were, and are only available in Avant.
The latest version might retain the Avant shape but the biggest change comes to the engine that has been downscaled to a 2.9-litre V6, albeit with twin-turbocharging.
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Here are three things you need to know about the B9 Audi RS 4:
1. Design
The Audi RS 4 draws inspiration from the legendary Audi 90 quattro IMSO GTO car when it comes to the design. The box-flare wheel arches are reminiscent not only of the IMSO car but the legendary Audi Sport quattro S1.
These arches result in the RS 4 ending up 30mm wider on each side when compared to the non-RS A4 Avant.
2. Engine
The 2.9-litre V6 utilizes two turbochargers to create 331 kW of power and 600 Nm torque. This is 170 Nm more than the 4.2-litre V8 that preceded it. Combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, the B9 RS 4 is capable of sprinting from 0 - 100 km/h in only 4.1-seconds. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h but if you choose the RS Dynamic package, the top speed increases to 280 km/h.
3. High standard spec
There's no need to go crazy on the options list with the RS 4 because there's so much already included as standard fare. LED head-and taillights are standard as are the 20-inch wheels, RS exhaust system and Audi Drive Select handling system. The interior has RS sports seats and a multifunction RS steering wheel. Climate control, MMI Navigation Plus, Virtual Cockpit and a Bang & Olufsen audio system are also included as standard.
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