Expo 2014 in Greater Noida. Powered by 4 litre twin turbo V8 motor, the RS 7 Sportback 4.0 TFSI Quattro has a massive power output of 553 bhp (at 6700 rpm) and torque of 70 kgm (at 1750 rpm). This engine is coupled with eight speed automatic transmission. The agility no doubt, is remarkable and the car does 0-100 km/hour in just 3.9 seconds.
For now there is only one Standard variant launched for the car. We delve into the styling, comfort and safety features for same:
Exteriors
The coupe like silhouette of RS 7 gives the car an aerodynamic profile. Audi design cues can be seen all over the vehicle. So that large 4 litre engine is concealed under a broad bonnet bordered by sharp swage lines. The headlamps are somewhat similar to those on A7 but are more sharply sculpted. LED daytime running lights look striking on their outer and lower edges. The hexagonal grille with honeycomb design and Audi rings is bordered by chrome frame. Large air intakes on the front bumper have the same honeycomb pattern. While round fog lamps are integrated with air dams on the international model, they are not seen on the trim launched in India.
With their matt finish aluminium look, the outside rear view mirrors (ORVMs) also appear sporty. The German luxury carmaker uses 20 inch forged aluminium alloy wheels with blade design as standard. And 21 inch wheels are also available as option. At the back, two piece, LED optimised tail lights have a sporty deign and dual oval exhaust pipes with chrome finish add to the dynamism of this stylish super car. A retractable rear spoiler is also provided – it extends out automatically when the speed reaches 130 km/hour. There is a range of body colours with pearl effect, crystal effect and matte effect to choose from.
Hybrid aluminium body fabrication for the RS 7 has helped in keeping its weight down. The sports car also has Audi’s all wheel drive Quattro set up for superior control and traction.
Interiors
Sporty nature of RS 7 is amply reflected in the design and styling of its cabin too. You can choose between Alcantara, Milano and Valcona leather upholstery with patterned stitching for the seats. The door trims and roofline covers can also be configured in complementary shades. Custom devised for the driver, the cockpit has flat bottomed - three spoke - multi function steering wheel and large floor brushed aluminium paddles. More touches of brushed aluminium are seen on the dashboard and broad centre console. The 8” coloured TFT Multi Media Interface (MMI) screen slides out from the behind the central AC vents and stands over the dashboard. It has pre loaded navigation plus with touch functionality. The entire cockpit region together with the MMI screen and centre console is subtly angled towards the driver for fine ergonomics. Sporty tachometer and speedometer on the instrument panel can be read easily from the driving position. In between the two, there is high resolution MMI display area for gear being used, boost pressure, oil temperature, cruising speed and a lap timer round out and digital clock.
Bluetooth capable mobile phones can be connected to the car for hands free calls via the microphone.
For entertainment in this 4 seater sports car you get Bose sound surround system and multiple speakers. Audi music interface is housed in centre console and operated via MMI or leather wrapped multi function steering wheel. Ambient illumination package comprises reading lights, lighting for door pockets, vanity mirrors and footwells as also surround lighting for centre console.
Visual appeal, rich feel and practicality of Audi RS 7 Sportback’s cabin makes you want to spend a long time behind the wheel.
Comfort Features
Ample luxury comes packed in this sports coupe. There is four way lumbar support for electrically adjustable front seats. And driver’s seat has memory function. A centre armrest with adjustable angle and fold open design is there for driver and co driver. Seat ventilation is an added comfort feature. There is sufficient legroom for the two passengers on back seat – they can also be split folded in 40:60 ratio and there is a centre armrest with storage space and pair of cup holders.
Four zone deluxe climate control electronically regulates air temperature, flow rate and distribution. Humidity sensor and combined/particulate filter are also fitted. Cabin occupants can choose between gentle, medium and intensive climate control settings.
Audi’s set of driver friendly features in the car include cruise control, Park assist with sensors and camera, Drive Select and electromechanical parking brake. While changing lanes, cornering and parking the dynamic steering system enhances comfort and handling by dynamically regulating maneuvers as per driving situation.
With adaptive air suspension, ride comfort can be enhanced on different road surfaces. The smartly planned assortment of tech-rich and electro mechanical features make this Audi sports car oh so luxurious and plush.
Safety Features
The safety of this nimble sports car has been enhanced by a host of meticulously incorporated set ups. There are 8 air bags with full sized units for driver and front passenger. Side airbags are also provided for rear seat occupants. Along with these you get side impact protection bars integrated into the doors. Anti lock brake system with electronic brake pressure distribution and hydraulic brake assist helps in bring the car to a halt safely. Audi RS 7 Sportback also has electronic differential lock.
Anti slip regulation (ASR) reduces spinning of drive wheels and thus helps in good traction and lateral stability. Electronic stabilisation control is another significant attribute in the safety package.
Basic features for safety include seat belt pretensioners & load limiters, child proof lock, ISOFIX child seat mounting, integrated head restraint system, tyre pressure monitoring display and anti theft alarm. A full sized spare wheel, first aid kid and warning triangle are also offered.
Audi RS 7 Sportback costs Rs. 1.30 crore (ex showroom price Delhi). The powerful V8 engine with all wheel drive and a fuel economy of 10 km/litre is the USP of this stylish super car.