South African introduction scheduled for the first quarter of 2013
The third-generation Audi RS 4 Avant combines potent performance with a high level of everyday practicality. Its 4.2-litre V8 produces 331 kW, the seven-speed S tronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer that power to the road.
Audi RS 4 Avant uses the same high-revving, normally aspirated V8 engine that powers the RS 5 Coupé. The responsive V8 accelerates the RS 4 Avant from zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds on its way to a governed top speed of 250 km/h. The 4.2 FSI engine combines its impressive power with exemplary efficiency, consuming on average less than 11 litres of fuel per 100 km.
Drivers can let the dual-clutch transmission shift automatically or change gears manually using the selector lever or the paddles on the steering wheel. For explosive starts the Launch Control can be activated.
Like every RS model from Audi, the RS 4 Avant comes standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The heart of this system is the crown-gear centre differential. The default 40:60 ratio of the rear-biased configuration ensures sporty handling.
Audi drive select driving dynamics system is among the standard equipment for the RS 4 Avant. With it, the driver can switch between three modes – comfort, auto and dynamic – to determine the characteristics of the steering, the seven-speed S tronic and the throttle valve. Audi drive select can even vary the sound of the exhaust system, double-declutching when downshifting in dynamic mode.
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.
Audi RS 4 Avant is 20 millimetres longer and 24 millimetres wider than the A4 Avant, but 20 millimetres lower.
