Enhanced V8 duo become the go-to options at the top of the petrol Audi Sport portfolio
The 2023 Audi RS 6 Avant Performance and RS 7 Sportback Performance models are about to arrive Down Under as the absolute flagships of the combustion-powered Audi RS portfolio, priced from $241,500 and $248,500 plus on-roads respectively.
Arriving here as enhanced replacements for the standard Audi RS 6 and RS 7, the Performance twins are the most aggressive and capable iterations of their respective nameplates to date, each packing 463kW/850Nm courtesy of an upgraded twin-turbo 4.0-litre petrol V8.
The lauded bent-eight has been treated to a pair of new turbochargers that up their maximum boost pressure from 35 to 38psi, hence the 22kW/50Nm bump in outputs, and can now be maximised by a new launch control system that trims 0.2sec off the pair’s 0-100km/h time, both cars now stopping the clock in 3.4 seconds.
Once the big Performance wagon and fastback are away, they’ll keep on pulling to an electronically governed top speed of 280km/h.
But there’s more to the new Audi performance flagships than just some extra grunt and handy launch control system: 20kg of unsprung mass has been saved by the new 22-inch lightweight alloys shod with a bespoke set of Continental SportContact 7 tyres.
The new rubber is said to improve the cornering and braking stability of the lardy performance models – and shave a couple of metres off the claimed 100-0km/h braking distance, regardless of the road conditions.
Complementing the new outputs is a more aggressive mapping for the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which yields faster shifts as well as an updated centre differential that’s said to improve cornering dynamics and precision.
Helping owners enjoy the sound of their new sports car-slaying family V8s is an 8kg reduction in sound-proofing from around the engine and exhaust system.
Those wanting to advertise the menace of their vehicles can also opt for matte-grey or matte-carbon black exterior styling packages, which swap out the matte aluminium exterior highlights for either grey or carbon as you’d expect from the respective names.
Standard equipment for both Performance models includes an Alcantara-clad steering wheel, Mercato blue stitching, blue seatbelts, Dinamica microfibre trim, perforated Valcona leather upholstery, sport seats, three-stage heating and ventilation, ‘RS performance’ puddle lamps and adaptive dampers among others.
“Audi has always excelled at producing high-performance cars that can impress as equally on track as they do on a day-to-day commute,” Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering said.
“Astoundingly, we have managed to build upon what was already a pair of very impressive models for a flawless drive with highly desirable packaging.
“Both the Audi RS 6 performance and Audi RS 7 performance would be a welcome addition to any Australian garage; sure to leave a lasting impression on those lucky enough to drive one.”
First examples of the new RS 6 Avant Performance and RS 7 Sportback Performance will be in dealerships “imminently”, says Audi Australia.
How much does the 2023 Audi RS 6 and RS 7 cost?
RS 6 Avant Performance – $241,500
RS 7 Sportback Performance – $248,500
* Prices exclude on-road costs
