New Audi RS models debut

Audi RS7

Audi South Africa currently offers four high-performance siblings as part of the model range. The Audi RS4 Avant, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Cabriolet and TTRS Coupe represent the spearheads of its model ranges. January sees the introduction of two further RS models: the Audi RS7 Sportback and the Audi RS Q3.

Audi presents a formidable product range for the discerning Audi customer, extending Audi’s RS offering to six models. It is also currently considering introducing the RS6 Avant in 2015 due to the popular demand of this model.

Aesthetic design, innovative technology and impressive sportiness are synonym with the RS7. The RS7 Sportback, the large five-door coupe from Audi, combines much strength to produce a fascinating character. Its strong heart is the 4.0 TFSI, which takes Audi’s downsizing strategy to the high-end category. The twin-turbo V8 displaces 3 993cc and develops tremendous power, with 412kW available between 5 700 and 6 700 rpm. A constant 700Nm of torque is available between 1 750 and 5 500rpm.

The RS7 Sportback is said to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 3.9 seconds. Audi limits the top speed in the standard configuration to 250km/h.

When specified with the Dynamic Package Plus, the top speed is increased to 305km/h. The RS7 Sportback consumes on average just 9.8 litres of fuel per 100km. This value is due in part to the standard start-stop system and innovative thermal management standard on this high performance thoroughbred.

The Audi RS7 Sportback is priced at R1 450 500, including all taxes and the standard five-year/ 100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.

UNRIVALLED. The Audi RS Q3. Pictures: Supplied.

Audi RS Q3

Audi is also presenting the first RS model for the successful Q line-up. The RS Q3 combines typical RS properties such as high performance and driving pleasure with lifestyle qualities and high utility value.

An award-winning high-performance engine, the 2.5 TFSI is at work under the hood of the RS Q3. From 2 480cc of engine displacement, the turbocharged direct-injection engine produces a maximum power of 228kW at 5 200 to 6 700rpm; its maximum torque of 420Nm is available between 1 500 and 5 200rpm.

These two values signify that the RS Q3 is unrivalled in its competitive field. This five-cylinder is a special engine, beginning with its fundamental concept. It is familiar – from the TTRS and RS3 Sportback, modified for use in the Audi RSQ3.

The 2.5 TFSI is claimed to accelerate the Audi RS Q3 from a standstill to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds – the best performance value in this segment. The vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. In the RS Q3, the Audi five-cylinder engine is working together with a stan-dard start-stop system for the first time. Other efficiency mea-sures, such as a regulated oil pump, which only pumps lubricant when needed, contribute to the car’s low average fuel consumption of 8.8 litres of fuel per 100km.

The Audi RS Q3 costs R696 500, including all taxes and the five-year/100 000km Audi Freeway Plan. – Own correspondent.