Brimming with power, style, and luxury, the Audi RS 7 is one of the fastest and most high-tech cars on the road. The four-door hatchback is surprisingly practical, too, with a mild-hybrid powertrain and generous cargo space. Its all-wheel-steering makes the most of sharp turns, and an air suspension smoothes out road imperfections. The RS 7 is pricey, but its uniqueness and driving performance can’t help but excite.
Pros: A 591-horsepower technological marvel; Sumptuous interior with many standard features; Versatile enough for real-world driving
Cons: More expensive than already-pricey competitors; Impressive yet complex infotainment system; Some rivals have more opulent interior comfort
The centerpiece of the Audi RS 7 is undoubtedly the turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that produces 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. It runs on premium fuel and pairs with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Standard Quattro all-wheel-drive delivers all of that power to the ground, with an adaptive air suspension and available carbon-ceramic brakes to assist as road conditions change. The EPA estimates the RS 7 should return 15/22/17 mpg city/highway/combined. It comes with a 19.3-gallon fuel tank.
The RS 7 comes with many standard features for $114,000. Exterior details include 21-inch cast-aluminum wheels, summer tires, HD Matrix Design headlights, Audi Laser light, automatic high beams, LED tail lights with dynamic indicators, all-wheel-steering, and a retractable rear spoiler. There is a power panoramic sunroof, illuminated aluminum door sill inlays, stainless steel pedals, four-zone automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror carpeted floor mats, and Aluminum Race anthracite inlays.
The RS 7’s front seats — appointed in premium leather — are heated and ventilated. Safety and technology features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and surround-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, navigation, Audi’s MMI infotainment system, dual LCD screens, a power trunk, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging.