After debuting in Europe, Audi RS7 enthusiasts in the US have something to smile about as the 2016 Audi RS7 Performance Variant is coming to the US really soon.
In 2014, Audi launched the 2016 Audi RS7 concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show and this week, year later the German automaker used the same platform to showcase the final models of the RS7 including the 2016 Audi RS7 Performance before it hits the market in December.
The sportback joins its sister Audi S8 plus which is also making its maiden debut in the US market.
2016 Audi RS7 Performance Exterior
The exterior has been carefully designed to fit its position as a high-performance model. To start with, the bumpers have a sport appearance and are integrated with air inlets at the front and a heavy diffuser at the rear. The front also features the signature black honeycomb grille synonymous to the RS models. The side sills are also flared.
A Quattro logo is placed on the air inlet duct. The frame on the singleframe grille, trim strips on the side windows, exterior mirror housings, lateral flaps in the air inlets as well as the front spoiler all feature a matt titanium finish.
The roof rails also have a matt titanium finish. Ascari blue, metallic paint finish is exclusively offered as an option. The rear features chromed exhaust tips that bring out its aggressive profile. The sportback will ride on 21-inch performance aluminum wheels.
2016 Audi RS7 Performance Interior
The 2016 Audi RS7 Performance does not only look good on the outside, on the inside the vehicle features high quality materials as you would expect of Audi. The premium styling starts with sport seats which are offered as standard. Alcantara and leather upholstery with a contrasting stitching in a blue- honeycomb pattern is offered as an option. The honeycomb matching and stitching pattern is expanded to the armrests, steering wheel, shifter and the floor mats.
The steering wheel has a flat-bottom shape which enables the driver to have full control. Other features include a retractable screen display, massage seats, Wi-Fi hotspot and voice-controlled navigation to name just but a few.
The sportback will accommodate 4 passengers since the rear of the cabin is fitted with two individual seats. It offers a large cargo space of 18.9 cubic feet which can be expanded to 49.1 by folding the rear seats which have a 60/40 split-folding capability. Other standard equipments include a 4-zone climate control system, Audi sound system and MMI navigation which come with touchpad control.
For a premium feel, you can opt for the Bang and Olufsen Advanced Audio System and the driver assistance system that features cruise control with a stop and go feature and night vision assistant among others.
Engine Specs and Performance
The new 2016 Audi RS7 Performance is one of the best performing sedans in the market today joining her sibling the S8 Plus. Just like the S8, the RS7 comes with the same drive-train as the previous model, though the new model’s engine has been modified for better output.
The 4.0 L, V8 comes good with 605 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. The engine makes the 0-60 mph run in a quick 3.6 seconds. If you are a bit conservative in matters speed, you can opt for the package that is limited at 174 mph. If you love to go all out and push your RS7 Performance to the limit, you can choose the package that allows the vehicle to stretch its legs up to 190 mph. Standard RS7 pushing 560 ponies and 516 pound-feet of torque.
This power is sent to a Quattro all wheel drive system via an 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission system. For extra fun, you can go for the optional sport differential for the rear axle. In terms of fuel economy, the automaker claims the sedan can achieve 25 mpg though official EPA results are yet to be released.
Price and release date
The model which made its debut this week at the ongoing LA Auto Show will be released to dealer showrooms shortly later in December. The 2016 Audi RS7 Performance will have a starting MSRP price of $ 129,925 inclusive of destination charges. This is $ 21,025 more than the base RS7.
