2020 Audi RS7 Sportback revealed
Audi has taken the covers off its new RS7 Sportback. Featuring the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 found in the latest RS6 Avant estate, it gets a 0-62mph time of 3.6 seconds. Here’s all the key info.
Externally, the RS7 Sportback takes the form of a swoopy fastback with a rear hatch. It’s aiming to take on cars such as Mercedes-AMG’s CLS 63. The design takes inspiration from the R8 supercar, with the front featuring a slick set of headlights and a large hexagonal grille.
RS-specific sills with black inserts also add emphasis to the flanks, while at the rear the hallmark RS exhaust is tipped with chrome-coloured tailpipes. 21in alloy wheels are standard, with an optional 22in version also offered.
As you might suspect, it’s actually larger than the standard A7 too – it’s 80mm wider at the rear for starters. In fact, only the bonnet, front doors and boot have been carried over. All other panels are bespoke to the RS7.
Inside, you’ll find a plethora of sporty matt brushed aluminium trim, and the same class-leading tech you’ll find in other new Audis. RS-specific changes include sports seats in perforated Valcona leather and a sports aluminium steering wheel.
The vivid Virtual Cockpit and MMI infotainment system features some RS-specific functions too – notably the Drive Select control, which as you’d expect displays an RS6 rather than a regular car. The onboard computer also allows you to view oil temperature, and even record acceleration times.
The boot offers an impressive 535 litres of space, while the car is certainly large enough to carry four adults in comfort.
It now uses the 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 used by Bentley and Porsche. It produces 592hp and a huge 800Nm of torque, allowing this large family estate to get from 0-62mph in just 3.6 seconds.
Despite the headline performance figures, the biggest change is that the drivetrain now gets a 48V mild-hybrid system. This means the engine will shut itself off for short periods at speed, while the system also makes the stop-start system more efficient; both these things make the RS6 Avant more economical and efficient.
Air suspension is optional, as is rear-wheel steering. The latter is designed to slightly turn the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front to improve handling.
No price and release date info has been confirmed, but we’ll update you as soon as we hear more.
