Audi RS7 Performance new car review
Why are we driving it?
Audi has upgraded its already potent RS7 Sportback with more power to create a full-size four-door luxury car that eats sports cars for breakfast.
What do we like?
The power. Audi could have been content with the 'standard' RS7's output of 412kW from its twin-turbo V8, but for the RS7 Performance it has bumped it to 445kW. Combined with the same 700Nm of torque (plus 750Nm on overboost) as the old model the RS7 offers up relentless performance.
Audi's trademark quattro all-wheel drive system ensures getting so much power to the road is never a problem.
The 0-100km/h sprint takes just 3.7 seconds, which is phenomenal for a car that can comfortably seat four and take their luggage.
RS adaptive air suspension is standard, allowing you to alter the stiffness of the dampers, which means you are able to change the character of the car depending on the conditions. In Comfort mode it offers reasonable compliance, given its 21-inch alloys, and in Dynamic mode it feels taut and responsive for such a big car.
The interior is top notch. Audi's modern styling looks good and there is a blend of luxury and sportiness the befits the character of the car. The materials used throughout are excellent too.
The sound system is a powerful 14-speaker Bose system. It also gets a digital TV tuner, digital radio, head up display, 360 degree parking cameras, parking sensors and a sunroof.
Audi's Sportback bodystyle, which is a cross between a sedan and hatch, means the RS7 has a large, practical boot which is accessed via an electrical tailgate.
What don't we like?
It's $19,500 more expensive than the previous RS7 and aside from the extra power and some cosmetic changes there isn't any other major equipment upgrades to justify that price rise.
Like all cars (particularly premium ones) there is a long list of options to add to the expense. With the RS7 Performance there are some notable ones, such as the Dynamic steering and RS sports suspension plus that come as part of a $4900 option package; when you'd hope they would be standard given the Performance is the ultimate Audi RS model.
Would I buy it?
If I had a spare quarter million bucks it would definitely be something I'd like to put in the garage. It is seriously fast but still a luxurious and comfortable car.
Having said that, I'd actually prefer its sibling, the RS6 Avant Performance, which offers up all the same speedy goodness but costs less ($245,400) and in a unconventionally cool wagon body.
2016 Audi RS7 Sportback Performance pricing and specifications
Price: $258,000 plus on-road costs
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo petrol
Power: 445kW at 6100-6800rpm
Torque: 700Nm at 1750-6000rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Fuel use: 9.6L/100km