The Audi RS4 returns to the V6 after two generations of V8. A downsizing operated thanks to turbocharging. A breath of fresh air for the front axle which is relieved by 30 kg, for the benefit of balance on the road.
The concept
Audi presents the 4th generation of RS4, a supersporting break that recalls the Audi RS2 developed in collaboration with Porsche in 1994 on the basis of the Audi 80. Only the RS4 of the year 2000, 2nd generation, therefore, declined in sedan and cabriolet in addition to the break baptized Avant at Audi. As a bug in the minds of purists for whom the RS4 must remain a family break with an ultra-sporty temperament.
What changes
The Audi RS4 abandons the atmospheric V8 for the new twin-turbo V6 2.9 that is also found in the latest-generation Porsche Panamera. It develops here 450 hp and 600 Nm, a gain of 170 Nm available from 1900 to 5000 rpm. With him, the RS4 sprints up to 100 km / h in 4.1 s, it's 0.6 s better than its predecessor. The new RS4 is also lighter than 80 kg (1,790 kg). The loss of 2 cylinders contributes to this lightening up to 30 kg and reduces the consumption of 17% on paper: 8.8 l / 100 km and 199 g / km of CO2.
How does it drive?
The Audi RS4 remains docile until you press the throttle trigger. The V6 biturbo then enters a second state to catapult you in a mi synthetic sound (up to 3500 rpm) symphonic mi through the Sport exhaust (1.222,1 €). The piloted suspension requires a supplement (€ 1,984 €) but guarantees a muscular and rigorous road feel. Standard, the Quattro all-wheel drive can be complemented by an active rear differential (1.615 €) which facilitates the registration in tight curves.
Budget / equipment
The Audi RS4 Avant is now available for € 84,700. A nice price that will need to be added to € 6,000 to enjoy the RS Dynamic package without which the RS4 will not have the same fervor on the road. It includes Active Steering, Torque Vector Rear Differential, Pilot Driven Suspension and Matrix LED Projectors. It also pushes the maximum speed from 250 to 280 km / h. The most demanding will add another 6.100 € for carbon-ceramic disc brakes.
The competitors
The Audi RS4 Avant is in direct competition with the Mercedes C 63 AMG class whose twin-turbo V8 delivers 476 hp (83,370 €). Although it is not available in break, the BMW M3 plays in the same yard with its six-line 430 hp (81,000 €).
Verdict
The Audi RS4 trades its atmospheric V8 against a twin-turbo V6 that makes it gain in performance and homogeneity on the road. It seduces by its ease of handling as well as by its ability to push hard and all the time. A nice versatility that is found in the cabin of this furious family break.
Good points:
-Polyvalence chassis, engine, cockpit
-Assembly and choice of materials
-Instrumentation and connectivity
Negative points:
-Look "sporty" too asserted
-V6 partially artificial sound
-Shopping box between 2nd and 3rd