Audi RS7 2020 uncovered: Why should wagons have all the fun?

Audi has ripped the covers off its all-new, second-generation RS7 Sportback performance sedan, ushering in new levels of performance ahead of a public debut at the Frankfurt motor show.

The bahn-storming coupe-style large sedan is underpinned by an updated version of its predecessor’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, enhanced with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

Peak power is up to 441kW from 6000-6250rpm (an increase of 29kW) and torque stands at a hefty 800Nm from 2050-4500rpm (up 100Nm), while the 48-volt mild-hybrid system can contribute an extra 12kW of power under gentle acceleration.

Driving all four wheels via an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, the RS7 is able to launch from standstill to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds – the same time as its mechanically related RS6 wagon – on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h, which can be optionally increased to up to 305km/h.

Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system features a 40:60 front/rear torque split, which can be variably changed to as much as 70 per cent on the front wheels and 85 per cent at the rear.

Official combined fuel consumption is pegged at 11.4-11.6L/100km, while CO2 emissions stand at 261-265 grams of CO2/km. The mild-hybrid system combines with cylinder deactivation technology to help cut fuel consumption by as much as 0.8L/100km.

The exterior design gives the RS7 a more fearsome look than its regular A7 counterparts, starting with its blacked-out Singleframe grille and wide lower air inlets.

Helping give it a low, squat look, Audi has increased the width of the RS7 by 40mm to 1950mm, extending the wheelarches to allow a lower centre of gravity.

From the side, the 21-inch hoops dominate the RS7’s profile, which can be optioned up to 22 inches in size.

At the rear, the RS7 is differentiated by a simple diffuser flanked by black, dual-exit oval tailpipes.

The RS7 rides on five-link front and rear suspension with three-mode RS adaptive air suspension as standard, which sits 20mm lower than the A7 and can drop an extra 10mm when travelling over 120km/h.

To tell it apparent from the A7 and S7 models, the RS7 has a diffuser flanked by black, dual-exit oval tailpipes.

Owners can sharpen handling with the optional RS sport suspension plus with dynamic ride control for less body roll in corners, while rear-axle steering can also be had at an extra cost.

Stopping power comes courtesy of 420mm front and 370mm rear ventilated and perforated disc brakes, which can be optioned with carbon-ceramic discs.

Inside, the RS7 features a stripped-down look with a number of RS-specific touches, such as the RS digital instrument cluster display, flat-bottomed perforated leather steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles and RS sports seats with a rhombus pattern and RS embossing.

Two RS design packages are available in red or grey, featuring contrast stitching on the Alcantara steering wheel, gear shifter, and knee pads, unique seat belts and RS floor mats.

Carbon, natural grey-brown wood and matte aluminium are alternative trim options.

Multimedia and air-conditioning systems carry over from the A7 and are projected on to screens measuring 10.1 and 8.6 inches.

Audi Sport managing director Oliver Hoffman said the RS7 represented a potent blend of performance, style and usability.

“With refinements to make it even more suitable for everyday use plus its incredible performance, what we have here is an outstanding piece of sports equipment for customers who like their cars to feature stunning design,” he said.