(continued from above)
The Audi RS 4 Avant uses the same high-revving, normally aspirated V8 engine
that powers the RS 5 Coupe. The 4,163 cc powerplant produces 450 hp (331 kW) at
8,250 rpm for a specific output of 108.1 hp per liter. Its maximum torque of 317
lb-ft (430 Nm) is available from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm. The responsive V8 with its
red-painted cylinder head covers accelerates the RS 4 Avant from zero to 60 mph
in 4.4 seconds on its way to a governed top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). This
can be increased to 174 mph (280 km/h) upon request.
Hand-built at Audi's plant in Györ, Hungary, the 4.2 FSI engine combines its
impressive power with exemplary efficiency, consuming on average less than 11
liters of fuel per 100 km (21 U.S. mpg).
With its high efficiency and long top gear, the standard seven-speed S tronic
also contributes to the vehicle's good fuel economy. Drivers can let the
lightning-fast dual-clutch transmission shift automatically or change gears
manually using the selector lever or the paddles on the steering wheel. For
explosive starts, drivers can also activate Launch Control, which manages the
engagement of the clutch at an optimum starting speed and minimum wheel slip.
Athletic Exterior Design
The exterior design flaunts the athletic character of the RS 4 Avant. The
hexagonal single-frame grille is set in a frame with a matte aluminum-look
finish; its honeycomb insert is finished in high-gloss anthracite. LED daytime
running lights encircle the xenon plus units like a clasp in the wedge-shaped
headlights. The air flows through large openings divided by crossbars and
embedded in a distinctive bumper featuring a splitter edge like on a race car.
When viewed from the side, the chiseled side sill caps and flared wheel wells
catch the eye. The flared rear side elements with sharp horizontal upper edges
are a nod to that all-wheel drive pioneer from 1980, the Audi quattro. The side
mirror housings and trim strips have a matte aluminum-look finish, and a
discrete roof spoiler at the back ensures the necessary downforce.
The distinctive bumpers and the two oval tailpipe caps of the dual exhaust
system dominate the rear end and are integrated into an upturned diffuser. Audi
also offers a sport exhaust system with a voluminous sound and black caps.
Elegant light strips adorn the LED rear lights.
The Audi RS 4 Avant is 20 millimeters (0.79 in) longer and 24 millimeters (0.94
in) wider than the A4 Avant, but 20 millimeters (0.79 in) lower. A choice of
eight colors is available: one solid and one metallic finish, four pearl-effect
colors and the two specially pigmented crystal-effect colors, Prism Silver and
Panther Black. The extensively clad underbody integrates air vents for the
seven-speed S tronic and the front brakes.
2013 Audi RS 4 Avant, rear view.
Audi RS 4 Avant: Review (2/2)
