2016 Audi RS 7
Raising the Bar, Breaking the Mold
In a segment where excellence is the absolute minimum required, it takes something special to stand out and get hearts racing. Thankfully, something special this way comes, and it’s called the 2016 Audi RS 7.
The Audi RS 7 is not quite a coupe, it’s not quite a sedan either. Instead, it defies convention with its rear liftgate, open cargo space, exquisite design, and powerful engine. Combined, these elements make the RS 7 one of the most enticing hatchbacks around, but the story doesn’t end there…
Performance
It’s clear Audi is out to prove that monsters are real, which would explain the devilish turbocharged TFSI® V8 engine lurking underneath its sculpted hood.
In its normal guise, the TFSI® engine churns out 560 horsepower, a number that increases to an astonishing 605-hp in the RS 7 performance model. The former can launch the RS 7 from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds (on its way to a top speed of 174 mph), while the latter does the same run in 3.7 seconds and boasts a top speed of 190 mph.
Accompanying the engine on its road-going rampage is an eight-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission. It’s an especially impressive set up that will leave drivers completely satisfied with its quick shift and seamless gear changes. At highway speeds, the RS 7 inspires confidence. And despite its hot-blooded engines, noise levels never go above a whisper.
The RS 7 also incorporates a number of technologies designed to deliver maximum handling and performance. These include quattro® all-wheel drive, self-locking center differential, and sport rear differential.
Simply put, few cars can match the RS 7’s potent mix of confident luxury and heart-pounding performance.
Features
The 2016 Audi RS 7 is a high-powered, high-performance variant of the Audi A7. It seats four, and is available in one well-equipped trim level. Prices start at $108,900.*
Befitting a vehicle of its elite status, the 2016 RS 7 sports a long list of standard features. Exterior highlights include a sport body kit, 20-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, and an adaptive sport-tuned suspension.
The RS 7 also incorporates a wide array of convenience and safety features, such as a power liftgate, auto-dimming mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, a collision mitigation system, a blind-spot monitor, and keyless entry/ignition.
Inside, the RS 7 boasts numerous premium features. There’s leather upholstery, LED lighting, heated eight-way power front sport seats, driver memory settings, and four-zone automatic climate control. Also included is Audi Drive Select and Audi’s MMI technology interface, which features a console-mounted controller that includes touchpad functionality.
Rounding out the interior’s many welcome features is an eight-inch display, rearview camera, navigation system, voice controls, and much, much more.
Drivers wishing to further enhance their RS 7 can do so with a number of available options packages, as well as stand-alone options, which include 21-inch wheels, power-closing doors, a night vision system, a simulated suede headliner, rear side airbags, and a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen® surround-sound audio system.
Design
It’s hard to find fault with the RS 7’s sultry design, and its fastback shape has been garnering praise ever since its debut in 2012.
Though it’s technically labeled as a "sedan," the A7 is not one in the traditional sense due to its rear, power-operated hatch door. And while it’s easy to focus on the RS 7’s unique rear design, there is more than enough up front and at the side to keep onlookers engaged.
Inside, the RS 7 is equally impressive. Material quality is simply stunning, with details like diamond-stitched leather upholstery on hand to delight both sight and touch. A number of performance flourishes, like RS-specific carbon-fiber inlays, aluminum pedals, and other RS-themed flourishes, help reinforce the RS 7’s position atop its lineup, while the smart integration of Audi’s elegant Multi Media Interface (MMI) make controlling the vehicle’s various onboard features a joy.
Safety
The 2016 Audi RS 7 comes complete with a number of standard safety features. These include antilock disc brakes, stability control, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a blind-spot warning system, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and front knee airbags.
Also included is Audi Pre Sense Basic collision mitigation system, which tightens the seatbelts and closes the windows if a potential frontal collision is detected, while the Pre Sense Rear function scans for potential rear collisions.
Verdict
The 2016 Audi RS 7 is a rare specimen; one that hits oh so many high notes as it deviates from the norm.
Schedule your test drive online or visit Audi Silver Spring at 3151 Automobile Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20904.
* Prices listed are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options you chose. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs or other dealer charges.
Image Credit: Audi