Audi is to bring some searing heat to the bitter cold of Detroit this week as the new RS 7 Sportback makes its world public debut at the North American International Automobile Show. Combining seductive curves with slingshot performance, the newcomer uses twin-turbo V8 power to send its acceleration time plunging to just 3.9 seconds and its top speed climbing to 189mph. It also employs advanced cylinder-on-demand technology to ensure that economy holds true to Audi efficiency ambitions, with up to 28.8mpg possible despite the ferocious pace.
Available to order in the summer of 2013 priced in the region of £84,000 OTR, and due in the UK towards the end of the year, the RS 7 Sportback shares its 4.0-litre V8 TFSI engine with the recently announced RS 6 Avant. This means that with the help of its two turbochargers formidable peak power of 560PS arrives between 5,700 and 6,700 rpm, and peak torque of 700 Nm is constantly available between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm. Eight-speed tiptronic transmission, quattro all-wheel-drive with sport differential, standard RS-specific adaptive air suspension with option of steel-sprung suspension incorporating Dynamic Ride Control (DRC).
The two large twin-scroll turbochargers located, along with the intercooler, inside the ‘V’ of the cylinder banks, produce up to 1.2 bar of boost pressure, helping to generate incredible accelerative force. The RS-specific engine management and unthrottled intake system also contribute to the engine’s dramatic response, and this is delivered with all the charisma expected of a V8. Switchable flaps in the exhaust system can make the sound even fuller at the touch of a button, and customers seeking an even more dramatic drive can choose a sports exhaust system from the options list.