Audi RS 4 Avant to break cover in Geneva
Audi has taken the sheets off its new generation RS 4, which according to reports, will be available exclusively in Avant bodystyle only. Set to make its first public appearance in the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, the RS 4 continues to feature a 4.2-litre V8 under the hood like its predecessor.
Eschewing the prevailing trend of downsized forced induction engines, the new RS 4’s bent eight taken from the RS 5 Coupe breathes naturally and thus delivers all its goods at the upper reaches of its tachometer – 450hp @ 8,250rpm and 430Nm @ 4,000 – 6,000rpm. Allied to a 7-speed S-tronic dual clutch gearbox and quattro AWD, the RS 4 blazes the century sprint in 4.7 seconds en route to a governed V-max of 250 clicks per hour. Removal of its limiter enables access to 280kph.
Key highlights of the RS 4’s bespoke drivetrain include Launch Control and an active self-locking crown-gear centre diff which varies torque distribution between 70% front and 85% rear according to conditions. The default setting is a slight rear bias of 60%. A torque vectoring function is also built into the system to counteract slip, and Audi further offers a sport differential with two superposition stages (whatever that means) as an option.
Underpinning the RS 4 is a highly tricked version of the A4’s chassis sitting 20mm closer to the ground. Its suspension components feature extensive usage of aluminium to save weight, and steering gear has embraced electric power assist. Standard on the RS 4 is Audi’s drive select system allowing the driver to switch betwen three modes – comfort, auto, and dynamic – that vary steering, transmission, and throttle response.
KON
Pictures: Official Audi release.
