The new Audi RS4 Avant. Click to enlarge.
Audi have announced that a new RS4 Avant model will be available to the UK from autumn, complete with a 4.2 litre V8.
The estate car starts at £54,925 and rivals the slightly more expensive Mercedes C63 AMG.
It’s got a naturally aspirated 4.2 litre V8, delivering up to 450bhp. That means it’ll get up to a limited 155mph, or 174mph “if required”- we can only guess that means if you ask Audi really nicely. It’ll also get from 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, slightly slower than the Merc (which goes for 4.6 seconds). Audi claim it can get 26.4mpg too.
It’s also got a lowered chassis and the trademark ‘Quattro‘ all-wheel-drive system. More than that though, it also features electromechanical steering, which makes slight steering corrections when braking on surfaces with different levels of grip for extra stability.
The RS badge means this model has more racey looks than the standard A4 Avant, exemplified in the 19″ wheels. It’s also got fancy wave brake discs, or carbon-fibre ceramic ones if you want to spend a bit more. Other features include alcantara and leather seats, carbon fibre touches in the interior and dvd-based sat nav.
The RS4 Avant seeks to combine V8 power with everday practicality. Click to enlarge.
Optional extras, meanwhile come in 2 packages- the sports package and technology package. The sports package contains dynamic ride control and steering options as well as 20″ alloys and a sports exhaust system which apparently amplifies the V8 noise. Technology is less exciting for us petrol heads though, with things like a HDD sat-nav, reversing cameras and cruise control. The packages cost £2250 and £1420 respectively.
The RS badge is always used wisely on Audis and I’m sure they won’t slip up here; it’s sure to be a great car that’s practical and powerful.
