Audi has trimmed back the RS6 and RS7 to a more expensive but more powerful version, while Australian details are yet to be announced.
Audi has revealed ‘performance’ versions of its 2023 RS6 and RS7, which will become the sole models available in some markets. Local Australian details are yet to be confirmed, but if we follow the UK, it could become the only option at a circa $30k price increase.
Both models are fitted with a larger turbocharger, seeing the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 uprated by 22kW and 50Nm to deliver 463kW and 850Nm, reducing the 0-100km/h sprint time by 0.2sec to 3.4sec.
The super-wagon will be joined by the new Audi RS7 Sportback Performance, which uses the same powerplant and gets identical performance figures.
Both cars continue with the same eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and carbon-ceramic brakes.
New additions come in the form of 22-inch lightweight wheels – available in gold – that are wrapped in high-performance Continental Sport Contact 7 tyres. A self-locking centre differential also comes as standard.
Audi has binned much of the insulation from both cars’ engine bays in a bid to reduce weight, which now stands at 2090kg in the RS6 and 2065kg in the RS7 – a reduction of 8kg a piece. The insulation removal brings with it a louder sound from the engine, Audi claims.
However, there is a significant increase in price, and as indicated in the UK, both performance variants are the sole choice for RS6 and RS7 shoppers. Prices in the UK for example have risen by up to (AUD$31,000).
Inside, much remains unchanged, with both models keeping Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display, which now boasts motorsport-derived shift indicators (for optimal gearshift times) as well as a new traffic-light system for the launch control.
Deliveries for the new Performance models will begin in December for Europe, but Australian details are yet to be announced.
Will Rimell