Audi RS4 Avant brings a combination of dynamics and everyday practicality

Audi has today revealed the third-generation RS 4 Avant, a car that the brand expects will combine potent performance with a high level of everyday practicality. The new RS4 Avant is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine with a 450hp output, combined with the quattro all-wheel drive system and a the seven-speed S tronic transmission.

The RS4 Avant borrows the same engine that has been used by Audi on the RS5 Coupé. The high-revving, normally aspirated V8 engine has a 4,163 cc displacement produces 450hp at 8,250rpm, which turns out in to a specific output of 108.1 hp per liter. Maximum torque of 430 Nm is reached from 4,000 to 6,000 rpm.

Thanks to the engine the RS4 Avant is able to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 4.7 seconds flying up to a maximum speed of 250km/h, which can be increased to 280km/h by request. Although extremely powerful the RS4 Avant still manages to have quite impressive fuel consumption, with 11l/100km. It comes standard with a seven-speed S tronic.

In a very complex design, the chassis of the new Audi RS 4 Avant features many components made out of aluminium, including parts of the five-link front suspension and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension. It also features a new speed-dependent power steering with a direct steering ratio which enhances road feel.

Audi has lowered the body of the RS4 Avant by 20mm, comparing with the parent A4 Avant and equipped it with new, polished 19-inch, ten-spoke forged aluminum wheels combined with 265/35-series tires.

In terms of looks, the front-end of the RS4 Avant features an hexagonal single-frame grille set in a frame with a matte aluminum-look finish, with the detailing on the grill finished in high-gloss anthracite. Circling the xenon plus headlights, the RS4 Avant has been fitted with LED daytime running lights.

The rear of the new RS4 Avant is dominated by the distinctive bumpers and the two oval tailpipe caps of the dual exhaust system. The sport exhaust system comes with a voluminous sound and black caps.

Delivery of the Audi RS 4 Avant is scheduled to begin in fall 2012 at a base price of €76,600 in Germany.