The red-hot Audi RS4 Avant has broken cover ahead of its unveiling at next month’s Geneva motor show. The new model marks the third incarnation of the RS4, and sees the go-fast nameplate return to production after a four-year hiatus.
The RS4 Avant combines load-carrying practicality with supercar firepower. Under the bonnet is a 331 kW and 430 Nm naturally aspirated 4.2-litre V8 – shared with the RS5 – that catapults the new car from 0 – 100 km/h in only 4.7 seconds. That’s two-tenths faster than the old RS4. The top speed is limited to 250 km/h but can be increased to 280 km/h upon request. Yet the seven-speed twin-clutch S tronic box – with launch control – helps boost economy to a claimed 11 L/100km.
As with all RS models, Audi’s designers have pumped up the bodywork without going over the top. There’s a series of air intakes in the lower front bumper, plus sculpted sills and flared arches. Huge twin oval tailpipes, finished in chrome as standard or black with the optional sports exhaust, are joined by a diffuser and roof spoiler. The tweaks make the RS4 20 mm longer and 24 mm wider than the regular A4 Avant.
The interior is fitted with side-hugging leather sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and finished with piano black panels and carbon fibre inserts. Aluminium is used across the pedals, air vents, steering wheel shift paddles and other controls, giving the RS4 a unique sporting character.
The RS4 is due to debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show and go on sale a few months later. It will take on Mercedes’ C63 AMG estate, but won’t have a BMW to worry about – as an M3 Touring has been ruled out. Audi has yet to confirm SA prices, but expect the RS4 to be priced between the R615 900 S4 sedan and the R907 500 RS5 Coupe.
