High performance in the business class
The new Audi RS 6 Avant
With an output of 426 kW (580 bhp), torque of 650 Nm, acceleration from zero to
100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h
(optional: 280 km/h), the new Audi RS 6 Avant raises the bar for performance
dynamics to new heights in the business class. The tiptronic automatic
transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer all of the immense
forces to the road, without any losses; and the performance of the chassis, too, is
equally uncompromising with DRC Dynamic Ride Control and heavy-duty
brakes. Like all RS models from Audi, the new RS 6 Avant adheres to a strict
philosophy – to achieve the ultimate in sporty performance without sacrificing
suitability for everyday driving.
Engine
The RS 6 Avant – the world’s most powerful wagon
Breathtaking power and fascinating dynamics – the Audi RS 6 Avant lends new
meaning to the term high-performance. Its 426 kW (580 bhp) make it the most
powerful model in the current Audi portfolio and the most powerful production
vehicle ever to bear the four-ring emblem. Its high horsepower also places it well
above any competitor in the upper business category – it is simply the most
powerful production wagon in the world.
The engine in the RS 6 Avant, whose power output comes from a displacement of
4,991 cc, is based on the V10 powerplants installed in the Audi S6 and Audi S8,
but nearly all of its details have been newly developed. With its combination of a
ten-cylinder layout, FSI direct fuel injection, two turbochargers and the same kind
of dry-sump lubrication used in motor racing, this engine is totally unlike
anything the competition has to offer. In terms of its power-to-weight ratio, too,
the RS 6 Avant can rival the sports car elite: Every horsepower has to propel just
3.5 kg.
The turbocharging system provides extremely high and consistent delivery of the
torque across almost the engine’s entire rpm range. Its maximum torque is an
awesome 650 Nm, available from 1,500 to 6,250 rpm, while maximum power
output is produced between 6,250 rpm and the engine’s top speed of 6,700 rpm.
The biturbo V10 catapults the Audi RS 6 Avant to the level of a high-performance
sports car. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h takes just 4.6 seconds, and the
sprint to the 200 km/h mark a mere 14.9 seconds. The speed then keeps on rising
rapidly until 250 km/h, at which point the speed governor gently intervenes. Audi
also offers a higher top speed of 280 km/h as an option.
The ten-cylinder engine makes for fascinating driving in every situation. It closely
and tenaciously follows the action of the accelerator pedal, instantly responding to
even the slightest movement with a burst of acceleration. Its dual-branch exhaust
system with two oval tailpipes accompanies the acceleration with a full, rich
sporty sound, which perfectly rounds out this car’s high-performance profile.
The V10 – the ideal sport engine
A turbocharged ten-cylinder powerplant is the ideal recipe for sporty, dynamic
performance. It has fewer components, lighter moving masses and less internal
friction than a similar twelve-cylinder engine; the result is higher efficiency.
Moreover, it is lighter and more compact – with all ancillaries, the engine in the
new Audi RS 6 Avant measures only 670 mm in length, 790 mm in width and
655 mm in height. The length of the bare engine is 560 mm.
The V10 is a member of the Audi family of V-engines, which are all designed
with a 90-degree included angle between cylinder banks and center-to-center
spacing of 90 millimeters between cylinders. The offset between the two banks is
18.5 mm. The cylinder bore is 84.5 mm, the stroke 89.0 mm.
The crankcase is manufactured of hyper-eutectic aluminum alloy by means of
low-pressure die-casting. This high-tech material unites low weight with high
strength. The cylinder barrels of the single-piece crankcase are honed to
mechanically expose the hard silicon crystals. The complete engine weighs only
278 kilograms – an outstanding achievement in the five-liter class.
A so-called bedplate design – an intermediate frame – gives the crankcase
extremely high torsional rigidity and improves its vibrational behavior. Its cast-in
bearing bridges, made from gray cast iron, reduce thermal expansion of the aluminum
crankcase and keep the crankshaft’s main bearing clearances to within tight
tolerances. The crankcase design features cross-flow cooling and has no
ventilation openings between the crank chambers (pneumatic spring engine). This
serves to recover energy at engine speeds of 2,500 rpm and higher, thus enhancing
both power and fuel efficiency. The high-strength con rods are made of forged
steel and the pistons, which are equipped with newly developed ring packages, are
aluminum alloy. The common-pin forged steel crankshaft provides both increased
strength and lower weight.
Dry-sump lubrication – for the ultimate in sporty driving
To meet the utmost demands in driving dynamics, a dry-sump lubrication system,
known for its proven effectiveness in motor racing, was implemented in
developing the engine’s oil circulation system. It features an extremely elaborate
external oil tank and oil pump module, operating with numerous different vacuum
stages. This ensures that lubricant is supplied to all engine components and the
two turbochargers under all conditions – even at the extreme lateral acceleration
forces of over 1.2 g of which the RS 6 Avant is capable. As a result, the dry-sump
lubrication system has sheer limitless reserves, even under racetrack conditions.
The hydraulic variable valve timing system continuously adjusts all four
camshafts through a crankshaft angle range of 42 degrees to vary valve overlap in
response to engine loads and speeds. This optimizes volumetric efficiency for
more effective combustion.
The camshafts, the oil pump module and the ancillary components are driven by
maintenance-free chains at the rear of the engine. The valves, which are actuated
by roller cam followers with hydraulic tappets, have a diameter of 33.9 mm on the
intake side and 28.0 mm for the exhaust valves. To withstand high thermal loads,
the exhaust valves are sodium-filled for improved cooling.
The fine oil separator that is integrated into the cylinder head works in accordance
with the “Multitwister” separation principle, which ensures that the oil is returned
directly to the cylinder head.
The V10 in the new Audi RS 6 Avant operates by means of FSI direct fuel
injection. A common rail injection system injects the fuel directly into the
combustion chambers at a pressure of 120 bar. The vacuum-controlled charge
tumble flaps in the CVTS flange impart a tumbling motion to the intake air at
engine speeds of up to 3,500 rpm – this circular motion perpendicular to the
cylinder axis enhances combustion efficiency.
In combination with turbocharging, FSI becomes TFSI – bringing together two
technologies that complement one another perfectly. The swirling of the fuel helps
to absorb heat from the combustion chamber walls – this solves the old problem
of high heat build-up in turbocharged engines. In the V10 for the RS 6 Avant, the
Audi engineers have implemented an unusually high compression ratio of 10.5:1,
which produces excellent combustion efficiency. This is why the V10 biturbo
contents itself with standard-cycle fuel consumption of 14.0 liters of premium
gasoline per 100 km – very good fuel efficiency considering its power potential.
Exhaust gas after-treatment is accomplished by means of two preliminary and two
main catalytic converters. Thanks to their proximity to the engine, they rapidly
reach operating temperature, and thus full effectiveness, after the engine is started.
Audi’s TFSI technology has garnered an outstanding series of victories in motor
sport. The R8 racer equipped with it drove to five overall wins in the Le Mans
24 Hours as well as numerous successes in other events. In the Audi RS 6 Avant, the
TFSI engine is managed by a highly advanced Motronic system called the MED
9.1.2. It operates with ten individual pencil coils and two separate control units in
accordance with the master/slave principle. For the first time in this class, engine
load is measured by a pressure sensor in the intake manifold.
Piling on the pressure – the two turbochargers
The single-stage intake manifold made from pressure die-cast aluminum is
equipped with a multifunctional cover and features two separate air paths with
two turbochargers and air filters. The pressure sensor built into the intake
manifold supplies the necessary data for the innovative p/n control system. The
two integral turbocharger modules – one per cylinder bank – develop pressures of
up to 0.7 bar. At full load, they have the theoretical capacity to compress
2,200 cubic meters of air per hour. The clamping flange joints allow optimum
longitudinal thermal expansion of the integral modules, and the kind of
continuous insulation shell used in aerospace engineering minimizes energy input
into the engine compartment. The turbochargers and the entire air intake system
have been optimized for spontaneous, virtually instantaneous response, and
suitably sized intake apertures in the front apron provide the airstreams for the
two large charge air coolers.
Drivetrain
A new level of dynamics
The engine’s exceptional power output of 426 kW (580 bhp) necessitates an
appropriately superior drivetrain. The new Audi RS 6 Avant comes standard with
the latest generation of the tiptronic automatic transmission, designed with six
forward gears for sporty performance. It transfers the engine’s torque to the
quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which itself is also built for the ultimate in
driving dynamics.
The tiptronic six-speed automatic transmission represents the vanguard of a new
generation of drivetrains that are now entering service throughout the Audi
portfolio. It is extremely compact and light, and harmonizes perfectly with the
dynamic character of the RS 6 Avant. Its torque converter, which operates in the
activated lock-up mode most of the time, its hydraulics and its electronic
management system, which adapts to individual driving styles, have been
optimized for direct coupling to the engine. Response time has been shortened to a
tenth of a second and shifting time has been cut in half – with kickdown
responding in less than a second.
A deliberately short set of transmission ratios was chosen; even in sixth gear, the
most powerful production Audi of all time offers impressive acceleration.
The driver can select the sport mode “S” with the selector lever; the shift point
maps are then altered for higher engine speeds. Shifting can also be performed
manually with either the lever or the shift paddles. The aluminum-look paddles
are located behind the steering wheel rim and turn with it.
Driving pleasure and stability – the quattro driveline
As is typical for an Audi, the new Audi RS 6 Avant also relies on quattro
permanent all-wheel drive with the superior traction and exhilarating driving
pleasure it offers under all conditions. The quattro driveline is yet another winning
motor sport technology from Audi. Its current generation, featuring asymmetrical,
dynamic torque distribution, is further testimony to the philosophy of “Vorsprung
durch Technik.”
A Torsen center differential installed longitudinally in the driveline distributes the
torque between the front and rear axles. The normal split is 40 percent to the front
axle and 60 percent to the rear – this slight rear bias was chosen to underscore the
sporty nature of the new Audi RS 6 Avant. If the road surface conditions change,
the purely mechanical differential responds instantaneously – it can divert up to
85 percent of the torque to the rear wheels or as much as 65 percent to the front
wheels. Should a wheel on one axle spin, it is braked by the EDL electronic
differential lock.
For the driver, this technology package adds up to outstanding agility, extremely
stable handling and uncompromising traction when coming out of a bend – even
on wet road surfaces where competitors helplessly struggle for traction with only
two driven wheels. The handling dynamics of the RS 6 Avant are further
enhanced by its relatively low engine weight, which results in a balanced
distribution of axle loads. The battery and the energy management system are
located in the luggage compartment for this same reason.
Chassis
Taming the power
Power means nothing if it can’t be controlled – and Audi engineers have followed
precisely this motto in developing the chassis for the RS 6 Avant. The complex
wheel suspensions, the high-tech Dynamic Ride Control shock absorber system
and four brawny brakes form a package that is a worthy match for the engine’s
tremendous power.
The chassis of the Audi RS 6 Avant unites the qualities of maximum dynamic
performance, good road trip comfort and smooth straight-ahead stability. The
combination of a host of advanced technologies produces a fascinating sports carlike
driving experience. Its dynamic steering response, exact feedback, sporty
precision and superior stability bridge the gap between racetrack and highway.
Most of the suspension components are manufactured of lightweight aluminum.
This design reduces unsprung masses and lends an immediate and fascinating
spontaneity to the car’s handling – just as in motor racing. In the front suspension
system, the wheels are guided by four aluminum links. Their elastokinematics
have been designed for highly dynamic performance. The front track is an
impressive 1,614 mm. The self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension system
features a track of no less than 1,637 mm. The rear suspension kinematics have
additionally been modified for sporty handling.
Special adjustments have also been made to the operating characteristics of the
speed-dependent servotronic power steering. The steering box has a ratio of
12.5:1 for a direct, dynamic steering feel. The Audi RS 6 Avant’s steering works
sensitively to impart a sense of close, positive contact with the road to the driver.
Purely mechanical – Dynamic Ride Control
One of the major features that sets the new Audi RS 6 Avant apart from the
competition is Dynamic Ride Control as a standard feature, which was used in
similar form both in the predecessor model and in the current RS 4. This evolved
high-tech system reduces the vehicle’s pitching and rolling movements in a
particularly ingenious way – by purely mechanical means, which makes it
instantaneous.
In the compact, lightweight DRC system, each pair of diagonally opposite shock
absorbers is interconnected by means of two oil lines and a central valve. When
the car takes a bend, the valves reduce the oil flow at the shock absorber of the
outer front wheel where the suspension spring is compressed. This improves
support, reduces body roll and thus enhances handling dynamics.
If desired, Dynamic Ride Control in the new RS 6 Avant can be supplemented
with optional three-stage shock absorption. This version is called sport suspension
plus and allows drivers to individually adjust the driving experience to suit their
own personal preferences or the route they are traveling. In the “comfort” setting,
sport suspension plus provides remarkable ride comfort. In the “dynamic” mode it
adjusts superbly to an enthusiastic driving style, and in the “sport” mode it
delivers maximum driving precision.
The unique combination of sport suspension plus with DRC, the high-traction
quattro driveline and the sporty axle layout lend unrivaled capabilities to the
chassis of the new Audi RS 6 Avant. The high-performance Avant still handles
safely within its dynamic limits under conditions that are well beyond the abilities
of other concepts.
Pleasure and stability – ESP
The ESP directional stabilization system rounds out this characteristic: It
intervenes at a very late stage and affords maximum driving pleasure while
ensuring excellent safety. By briefly pressing a button, the driver can select a
sport mode – the ESP’s traction control function, i.e. engine torque intervention, is
then largely deactivated and braking intervention takes place at a later stage. This
enables skilled drivers to perform fantastic drifts on low-friction road surfaces.
Holding the button down longer deactivates both functions.
The new Audi RS 6 Avant comes equipped standard with 9 J x 19 cast alloy
wheels featuring a 10-spoke design. They mount 255/40 R 19 tires, which are
equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system as a standard feature. Also
optionally available are 20" 9.5 J x 20 cast wheels featuring a five-segment spoke
design in an aluminum-look or titanium-look finish. They are an impressive
275/35 R 20 in size and also feature pressure monitoring.
An automotive athlete of such exceptional caliber naturally also needs an
extremely high-performance brake system. The standard steel discs on the Audi
RS 6 Avant have been designed to withstand extremely high loads. They consist
of an aluminum brake disc cover and a cast iron friction ring, joined by metal
pins. This floating design increases thermal stability at high loads and reduces
weight. The discs’ cooling channels and cross drillings both fulfill the same
function.
The front brakes on the RS 6 Avant have a diameter of 390 mm and are gripped
by six-piston fixed calipers made of aluminum. The discs mounted on the rear
axle have a diameter of 356 mm and single-piston floating calipers. The brake
calipers are painted black and adorned with RS emblems in front.
Audi can optionally supply ceramic brakes in conjunction with the 20" wheels.
The ventilated, cross-drilled discs consist of a special composite in which highstrength
carbon fibers are embedded in hard, abrasion-resistant silicon carbide – a
material that has proven its effectiveness in aerospace engineering.
The discs offer the impressive diameters of 420 mm in front and 356 mm in the
rear, but are nevertheless 12.2 kilograms lighter in total than steel discs. They thus
reduce unsprung masses to enhance handling dynamics.
The ceramic brakes offer uncompromising performance. They have no trouble
enduring even the most extreme loads, are not susceptible to corrosion and will
normally last some 300,000 km. The brake calipers – with eight pistons on the
front brakes – are painted Titanium Gray and have “Audi ceramic” lettering in
front.
Styling
Confident – the compelling look of the RS 6 Avant
With its styling, the new Audi RS 6 Avant follows a line that is characteristic of
Audi – the elegance of dynamics. Its front-end form follows function: The highperformance
engine and the two turbochargers need a considerable amount of air
to breathe as well as for cooling, which is why the intake apertures have been
enlarged. Arched struts form the surround and the front apron has been restyled.
The single-frame grille featuring a high-gloss black guard with six-cornered
diamond-look styling and a red and silver RS 6 logo serves to emphasize that this
vehicle belongs to Audi’s high-performance family.
The headlights on the Audi RS 6 Avant are miniature high-tech works of art. To
create space in the front apron for additional air flow, the halogen fog lights have
been integrated alongside the xenon plus headlights, which are optionally
available with adaptive light, the cornering light function.
The strip of LED daytime running lights adds a distinctive touch: Ten LEDs along
the lower edge of each headlight unit lend the Audi RS 6 Avant an unmistakable
appearance. A fairing at the top of the headlights sharpens the car’s look.
The side outline is characterized by the accentuated, wide side sills and flared
wheel arches. Like the hood, the front fenders are made of aluminum in order to
reduce weight.
They afford space to accommodate the commanding wheels and are also
reminiscent of a milestone in automotive history: Flared wheel arches, squared off
at the top, had already numbered among the styling elements of the Audi quattro
(the “original quattro”) – which pioneered permanent all-wheel drive back in the
year 1980.
Saying goodbye in style – the rear end of the new RS 6 Avant
The car’s rear end design also makes for an impressive sight – and this is the
aspect of the new Audi RS 6 Avant that other drivers will typically see. It features
a distinctively styled diffuser with large oval tailpipes integrated into it at the left
and right. A subtle but effective roof spoiler, which accommodates the third brake
light, provides the finishing aerodynamic touch, and an RS 6 logo denotes the
special character of this high-performance Avant. The taillights, too, largely
incorporate LED technology.
The Audi RS 6 Avant is an automobile of imposing stature. It measures 4,928 mm
in length, 1,889 mm in width, 1,460 mm in height and has a wheelbase of
2,846 mm. A metallic/pearl effect paint finish underscores its sporty, elegant
design. And it comes in its own exclusive colors of Sepang Blue or Monza Silver,
as well as in Monterey Green, Phantom Black, Mugello Blue, Misano Red or
Daytona Gray.
Interior
Exclusive – the elegant interior
The interior of the new RS 6 Avant offers an experience that exudes sporty
exclusiveness. It is crafted with the impeccable quality for which Audi is
renowned, from such sophisticated materials as carbon fiber, aluminum, leather
and Alcantara. These materials create an atmosphere of refined dynamics and
elegantly conceal all of the high-tech engineering that lies beneath.
RS 6 Avant customers can choose between two steering wheels: The
multifunctional sport steering wheel with three-spoke design and the
RS multifunctional sport steering wheel.
The RS version – which can optionally be covered in suede, has a distinctly
powerful shape with the kind of flat-bottomed design found in motor racing. Both
steering wheel versions have multifunctional controls for operating the telephone,
navigation system and audio system. Shift paddles for the tiptronic transmission
allow rapid manual shifting, and an RS 6 emblem on the lower spoke adds a
distinctive visual touch.
The cockpit – perfect ergonomics
The clearly laid out and easily readable instrument package additionally features a
turbocharger boost pressure indicator. Like the oil temperature gauge and lap
timer, it can be accessed via the driver information system. When the ignition is
switched on, both its display and the seven-inch color monitor of the MMI
operating system show the RS 6 logo. All switches and levers are perfectly
positioned within easy reach and are integrated into the cockpit, which is clearly
angled toward the driver, with meticulous devotion to detail.
In numerous tests, the MMI operating system has repeatedly won acclaim from
the automotive media for its superior, intuitive concept. Its large buttons and
controls on the center tunnel feature a gleaming aluminum-look finish. The
electromechanical parking brake that comes as standard equipment eliminates the
need for a handbrake lever; in its place is a wide, comfortable center armrest.
The inlays in the new Audi RS 6 Avant are made of carbon fiber neatly edged
with fine aluminum trim strips, and the center console is also trimmed in carbon
fiber composite. Alternative trim combinations in matt brushed aluminum, fine
grain myrtle nutmeg and piano finish are also available. The cockpit fascia, which
accommodates the instruments and the monitor, always shines with its black piano
finish – a little feast for the eyes.
Other special touches in the interior include the aluminum edging around the
MMI operating terminal, specially designed door openers, as well as the sport
pedals and the footrest, which also come in an aluminum-look finish. The door
sills, too, are trimmed with aluminum strips bearing the RS 6 logo. As an option,
the headliner and the insides of the columns can be covered in Nardia, an
innovative high-tech microfiber.
Firm support – the sport seats
The highly contoured sport seats provide the body with the best possible support
and an exceptionally firm hold. They be can electrically set to precisely the
desired position and feature an integrated head restraint plus a manually
adjustable thigh support. The sport seats are upholstered in a combination of
leather and Alcantara, including an embossed RS 6 logo, or they are optionally
available with all-leather upholstery in Silk Nappa or Valcona with colorcontrasting
stitching. RS bucket seats are also optionally available. The front seats
and the outer seats in the rear are heated as a standard feature.
The new business class sports car from Audi offers generous space for five
passengers and their luggage, with plenty of freedom of movement for heads,
arms and legs, both in the front and rear. In its normal configuration, the luggage
compartment has a capacity of 565 liters; with the rear backrest folded down, the
volume grows to an impressive 1,660 liters. A load-through hatch, roll-up cover
blind, a luggage net, a rail system and a twin loading floor with integrated dirtresistant
liner are all included as standard features. And with its low loading lip
that allows easy access to the luggage compartment, the sporty RS 6 Avant is
outstandingly equipped to satisfy sporty transport needs.
Features
The finest in high-tech – standard equipment
Audi equips the RS 6 Avant, which is available at dealers in Germany for
€106,900 including value-added tax, with a range of standard features that
underscores its dynamic, exclusive character. The world’s most powerful
production wagon is already clearly recognizable from the outside by a wealth of
exclusive features – these include the daytime running lights, consisting of ten
LEDs per headlight, the flared wheel arches and the commanding 19" cast
aluminum wheels with brawny brakes behind them. The tires are continuously
monitored for proper inflation pressure. A metallic/pearl effect paint finish
emphasizes this Audi model’s sporty and elegant lines.
On the inside, the RS 6 Avant pampers its passengers with electrically adjustable
sports seats upholstered in Silk Nappa leather. The front seats and the outer seats
in the rear are heated. The carbon fiber inlays, a piano finish cockpit fascia and a
host of RS 6 logos add refined highlights to the interior.
Top of the line – comfort and safety
Comfort and safety, too, are top of the line. An automatic anti-glare rear view
mirror, an RS multifunctional sport steering wheel with shift paddles, and the
deluxe automatic air conditioning system plus, which fine-tunes climate control
for two separate interior zones, add distinctive touches of luxury. An alarm system
and six airbags – two front, two side and two curtain airbags – enhance security
and safety. Isofix mountings in the rear afford fast and reliable child seat
installation.
The highlights of the standard features include the Audi parking system plus
parking aid, which utilizes eight ultrasound sensors to assist the driver with exact
audible and visual signals. The sound system, BOSE Surround Sound, is a delight
to the ears – it generates powerful, crystal-clear sound from a 270W amplifier
supplying 13 speakers. Its sound algorithm analyzes driving and outside noises
and appropriately adjusts the frequency response curve to compensate for them.
The epitome – custom features
Customers who wish to further customize their RS 6 Avant need look no further
than the options list – it constitutes the absolute epitome of what technology has to
offer. Equipped with sport suspension plus, the shock absorber system, which is
already highly precise thanks to Dynamic Ride Control, can be adjusted as desired
to one of three mapped characteristics. The 20" cast aluminum wheels come with
275/35 R 20 tires; they allow room for high-performance brakes with huge
ceramic discs. The interior can be equipped with an RS multifunctional steering
wheel with shift paddles, its rim covered in suede if desired. Audi additionally
offers Silk Nappa or Valcona leather upholstery for the seats, with colorcontrasting
stitching. The options also include a higher top speed of 280 km/h.
Adaptive light – even better nighttime visibility
Audi adaptive light is a feature that makes driving more relaxing by dynamically
illuminating bends in the road and intersections. Audi lane assist, on the other
hand, facilitates staying in lane at speeds of 65 km/h and higher. A minicam on
the windshield observes the road and a computer detects the lane markings.
Should the driver edge toward one of the lane markings without using turn
signals, Audi lane assist provides a warning by vibrating the steering wheel.
Audi’s adaptive cruise control (ACC) is another highly advanced driver assistance
system. It controls the car’s speed between 30 and 200 km/h. Using radar sensors,
the system maintains a preset, driver-selectable distance behind the vehicle in
front – gently accelerating and braking as needed. In dangerous situations, the
integrated braking guard function comes into play: A warning light and an audible
signal instruct the driver to brake; should the driver fail to take action, the system
triggers a brief mini-application of the brakes. If the driver then responds, the
brake assist system instantly makes the full braking force available.
The new Audi RS 6 Avant is at the cutting edge of technological advances when it
comes to multimedia. Optionally available are a fast, powerful DVD-based
navigation system and an easy-to-use voice interaction system, in addition to a
module for analog and digital radio reception. If desired, FM radio signals can
also be digitally received and processed – the DAB standard (Digital Audio
Broadcasting) is far superior to analog reception in terms of dynamic range,
transparency and three-dimensionality.
The Audi Bluetooth car phone affords luxury-class telephone functionality. The
mobile phone stays in the driver’s jacket pocket, while the car phone wirelessly
accesses the mobile’s data. It then switches off the mobile phone’s transmitting
unit and uses the vehicle antenna.
The RS models from Audi
For 13 years – the ultimate line for dynamic performance
Since 1993, the RS models have formed the dynamic spearhead of the Audi model
line. In the upper midsize class, the RS 2 and RS 4 have defined the standards for
power and performance, while the RS 6 has moved into a new dimension in the
premium class. All RS models unite emotion and perfection to fashion a
fascinating overall concept.
The Audi RS 2 was built in cooperation with Porsche starting in 1993. Its fivecylinder
turbocharged engine incorporating four-valve technology produced an
explosive 232 kW (315 bhp), superbly transferred to the road by the quattro
driveline. The model’s performance specifications and brakes have moved it into
the league of high-powered sports cars. The RS 2 originated a concept that was
adopted and continued in the year 2000 by its successor, the first Audi RS 4. It
was powered by a 2.7-liter V6 with two turbochargers that delivered 279 kW
(380 bhp).
The current Audi RS 4, unveiled in 2005, takes a different engineering approach –
it uses a naturally aspirated, high-revving V8. With the aid of FSI direct fuel
injection, its 4.2-liter engine delivers 309 kW (420 bhp) and 430 Nm of torque at
5,500 rpm. The RS 4 is available as an Avant and a Cabriolet; its predecessors
came only in Avant form.
The Audi RS 6, which debuted in 2002, came from the A6 model line. It was
powered by an earlier embodiment of the 4.2-liter V8 – with the boost pressure of
two turbos, its five-valve engine with indirect injection produced 331 kW
(450 bhp). Audi offered the first RS 6 both in sedan form and as a wagon. The
high point for this model line came with the production of the special limited
edition RS 6 plus, powered by a 480-bhp engine.