The new Audi S4/S4 Avant
- Three-liter V6 unit generates 245 kW (333 hp)
- Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds
- Average fuel consumption of just 9.7 liters

INGOLSTADT, Germany, Sep 22, 2008 - Audi is introducing its new sporty top models in the midsize class – the S4 and the S4 Avant. Their engine, a three-liter V6 with direct fuel injection and mechanical turbocharging, delivers a powerful 245 kW (333 hp). It accelerates the S4 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 5.1 seconds, but on average only uses 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 US mpg). The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system transfers its power to the road in style, which is then converted by the sport suspension into dynamic handling. Upon request, Audi can equip the new S4 and S4 Avant with innovative technologies that further increase their lead over the competition. The seven-speed S tronic changes gears with lightning speed, and the new sport differential distributes the torque as needed between the rear wheels. The new Audi S4 will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the Paris Auto Show from October 2 to 19.

The heart of the new S4 and S4 Avant is a completely redesigned engine. The 3.0 TFSI, the newest member of the Audi V-engine family, is an outstanding example of how the brand with the four rings blends performance and efficiency. The V6 generates its power from a displacement of 2,995 cc, is equipped with a supercharger, and delivers 245 kW (333 hp). The sedan sprints to100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 5.1 seconds, and the Avant in 5.2 seconds: they both have an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

The “T” in the 3.0’s TFSI nomenclature no longer merely stands for “turbo”, but rather for the concept of supercharging in general – extensive testing on the big V6 has proven the superiority of mechanical charging. In conjunction with direct injection it is far superior to twin turbochargers, both in terms of packaging and of starting performance and responsiveness.

The compressor is so compact that it easily fits inside the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks, in place of the intake manifold. Two four-vane rotary pistons counter-rotate inside the turbocharger at up to 23,000 rpm. Two charge-air coolers are integrated into the housing and are connected to a separate coolant circuit. An impressive array of measures keeps the noise generated by the compressor to a minimum.

The engine-driven belt that powers the mechanical charger provides full thrust right from idling speed. The 3.0 TFSI delivers its maximum 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) at 2,500 rpm and maintains this constantly until 4,850 rpm. In fourth gear, the vehicle accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 to 74.56 mph) in just 4.4 seconds. Thanks to the extremely short gas paths, the sonorous, supercharged V6 responds spontaneously to the throttle, even more so than a naturally aspirated engine of the same displacement.

Furthermore, the new 3.0 TFSI achieves exemplary fuel efficiency. On average, the sedan uses 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 US mpg), and the Avant 9.9 liters per 100 km (23.76 US mpg) – an improvement of 3.4 liters (26 percent) compared with its predecessor. The Audi technology of gasoline direct injection was what made this great efficiency possible in the first place. Unlike conventional concepts, it allows the compressor to be located behind the throttle valve. In view of the low density of the intake air at loads below supercharging level and when coasting, its rotors are free-running and the amount of power required to drive them is low.

Dynamism and efficiency: The new seven-speed S tronic

The V6 power in the new S4 and S4 Avant flows into a six-speed transmission, fitted as standard, which shifts quickly and precisely. As an option, Audi offers a state-of-the-art dual-clutch transmission – the seven-speed S tronic is extremely dynamic and highly efficient. The driver has the option of driving in fully automatic mode or selecting the gears with paddles on the steering wheel or directly with the shift lever – all of which provide impressively quick gearshifts. The gearshift feel is dynamic, comfortable and very precise – typically Audi.

The seven-speed S tronic consists of two separate transmissions and uses two multidisk clutches that control the various gears. The large K1 clutch guides the power via a solid shaft to the pinions for gears 1, 3, 5 and 7. A hollow shaft rotates around the solid shaft; it is connected to the compact K2 clutch, which is integrated within its larger counterpart and controls the pinions for gears 2, 4, 6 and reverse gear.

Both transmission structures are continuously active, but only one is powered at a time by the engine. For example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission structure. The shifting process takes place as the clutch changes – K1 opens and K2 closes with lightning speed. This process takes only a few hundredths of a second and is completed without interrupting traction. It is so comfortable and smooth that the driver hardly notices it.

The seven-speed S tronic is designed for maximum efficiency. It operates with very high efficiency and its intelligent control system maximizes fuel economy in automatic mode. With its wide gear ratio spread of 8.0:1 the seven-speed S tronic easily exploits the tremendous power and superior torque of the 3.0 TFSI.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system transfers power to the road with
supreme ease. Under regular driving conditions, it sends 40 percent of its
torque to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear wheels – a slightly rearbiased,
sporty characteristic. Where necessary, it can vary distribution within
fractions of a second.

The quattro drive system ensures safe self-steering characteristics, high stability and excellent traction in comparison with rear-wheel-drive competitors.

Customized torque distribution:
The sport differential with Audi drive select

The new, active sport differential ideally complements the quattro drive system and lends it even greater fascination. When the steering wheel is turned or the car accelerated in a corner, power is redirected in a controlled manner to the outer rear wheel, literally pushing the vehicle through the corner. The system intervenes to counter any signs of understeer or oversteer. For the driver, this means reduced effort at the steering wheel and even higher lateral
acceleration.

The active sport differential is a new type of rear-axle differential. A superposition gear was added to both the left and right sides of the classic differential; it rotates ten percent faster than the wheel’s drive shaft.

Both components can be connected through a multidisk clutch, which runs in an oil bath, and is operated by an electro-hydraulic actuator. In most driving situations, the clutch can divert almost the complete input torque to one wheel in this way.

Controlled by an array of sensors and a high-speed computer, the active sport differential needs less than 100 milliseconds to redirect power. Drivers can adapt their manner of driving, along with characteristics for the load changes, to three performance maps. Unlike competitors’ systems, the Audi sport differential is just as effective when the engine is driving the wheels as it is on the overrun or when the car is coasting freely.

The new Audi S4 and S4 Avant are well-trained athletes. Their five-link front axle and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear axle are of a highly sophisticated design; both axles are made almost entirely of aluminum and are therefore very lightweight. The low-mounted steering gear transmits the steering forces to the wheels without any lag time and gives the driver a precise and sensitive road feel.

The spontaneity of Audi’s new midsize athletes is fascinating, and they possess the precise reactions of a thoroughbred sports car. In these transmissions, the differential is positioned in front of the clutch, which made it possible to move the engine 154 mm (6.06 in) forwards compared with the predecessor model. This unusual layout perfectly evens out the axle loads, and also affords the long wheelbase of 2,811 mm (9.22 ft) exceptional stability.

The chassis of both new S models received stiffer axle bearings, and the sporty tuning with stiff shock absorbers puts the chassis 20 mm (0.79 in) closer to the road. Huge high-performance and fade-resistant brakes sit behind the 18-inch and optional 19-inch cast aluminum wheels. The black-painted brake calipers – at the front with the S4 logo – grip the ventilated disks with newly developed brake pads.

Audi drive select: The driving dynamics system

The Audi drive select driving dynamics system is a further high-end technology featured on the new S4 and S4 Avant. It accesses the throttle response characteristics, the shift points for the seven-speed S tronic and supports the speed-dependent servotronic steering. With the press of a button, the driver can decide whether these systems should operate in “comfort,” “auto” or “dynamic” mode. If the vehicle is equipped with the MMI operating system, a fourth mode is available which the driver can program according to his own personal tastes and preferences.

Audi drive select can only be ordered in combination with one or more of three additional technologies – the sport differential, adaptive control for the shock absorbers, or dynamic steering, which is an additional high-tech solution. Its zero-play superposition gear, which is driven by an electric motor, varies the ratio by almost 100 percent depending on the speed being driven. In terms of driver safety, the dynamic steering assists the ESP stabilization program by using steering intervention to keep the new S4 and S4 Avant on track when cornering at the handling limits. In many instances, the system renders ESP intervention superfluous.

For the adaptive damper control system, hydraulic gas-pressurized shock absorbers are used which operate by means of additional, electrically actuated valves. They control the flow of hydraulic liquid, thus regulating the shockabsorbing characteristics. A high-performance control unit analyzes the signals it receives from 14 sensors, and calculates the damping power for each individual wheel 1,000 times per second.

An athletic look: The design

Both the Audi S4 and the S4 Avant look athletic and muscular on the road. Some of the most striking modifications to the exterior design are the special aprons, the aluminum-look exterior mirrors, the 18-inch S-design light-alloy wheels, the side rocker panels, the restrained spoiler at the rear and the quadruple exhaust system. The xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights and the rear lights are further distinctive touches.

The interior also underscores the sporty expertise that is the hallmark of both new S models. The sports seats have electric lumbar supports and pull-out thigh supports, and the instrument panel features gray dials with white needles. They also bear the S4 emblems, as do the multifunction sport steering wheel and the key. The interior is in black, with brushed aluminum inlays. Carbon and birch wood inlays are also available, as are stainless steel mesh inlays.

Optional assistance systems provide the driver with even greater control on the road. The adaptive cruise control (ACC) regulates the distance to the vehicle in front, and braking guard issues warnings regarding possible rear-end collisions. The Audi side assist makes changing lanes safer; the Audi parking system advanced makes backing into a parking space easier.

With regard to multimedia, Audi offers an attractive technology package. The communications and entertainment technologies portfolio includes the competition-beating MMI operating system, various types of radio and sound systems all the way up to the high-end solution from Bang & Olufsen, two navigation systems, an iPod interface, and a highly convenient Bluetooth car phone.

Luxurious features such as the three-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning and the dynamic cornering light system known as adaptive light round out the optional equipment.

Audi will begin delivery of its new S models in March 2009.

[Audi]

Both share a quarter-mile time of 12.7 seconds, but the lighter, 420 HP R8 is faster through 90 mph and the 580 HP RS6 is faster through 150 mph. Not surprisingly, the mid-engined supercar manages to out-brake the much heavier wagon. And what about around the track? EVO took both out to the Bedford Autodrome and determined the RS6 was just 1.4 seconds off of the R8's time of 1:26.5. I guess now we know why the ultimate wagon costs more than $140,000. [EVO via CarScoop]

The new Audi A4 Avant: Driving in a new dimension

Attractive design, spacious and well thought-out luggage space
Sporty technology layout and dynamic driving performance
New generation of engines with higher performance and lower fuel consumption
Ingolstadt, February 2008 - Dynamic, elegant, and emotional; with the
A4 sedan, Audi has already advanced into a new dimension.

In a few weeks, the A4 Avant will follow: The most successful premium station wagon of its class offers, along with excellent drivability and uncompromising quality, a higher utility value for sports and recreation. This vehicle combines elegance and intelligent functionality.

The Audi A4 Avant is extending its lead. Based on the same technology layout as the sedan, the newly developed five-link front axle has been shifted farther forward. This ensures that the axle loads are perfectly distributed, thereby guaranteeing the highest precision and agility when it comes to handling. The Avant therefore also offers a new and fascinating driving experience similar to the one that led media experts to pronounce the sedan the best automobile in the midsize range.

Audi is launching the A4 Avant with five engine types to begin with: two gasoline engines and three diesel engines. These engines offer superior performance while reducing fuel consumption by more than 14 percent compared to the previous model - proof of Audi's successful efficiency strategy.
Audi's high technological competence is also expressed in the broadly diversified range of powertrains and in its numerous sport and comfort technologies - many of which originate directly from the premium class.

Attractive station wagons called Avant: the design
The design of the new Audi A4 Avant is as exciting and dynamic as one would expect from a brand as design-oriented as Audi. The headlights are staged like a technological work of art. The Avant comes with daytime running lights as a standard feature; the xenon plus headlights consist of 14 white light-emitting diodes.

Compared to the forerunner model, the proportions have been reconfigured in a new and even sportier design. The front overhang has been shortened, and the engine hood and the wheel base have gained considerably in length. The flat D-posts lend the Audi A4 Avant a dynamic, coupe-like silhouette, while the rear design emphasizes its width with powerful, horizontal lines. The new A4 Avant measures 4.70 meters (15.42 feet) in length, almost 12 centimeters (4.72 inches) longer than its forerunner model. Its body is considerably more rigid and safer in build than its predecessor, yet is around 10 percent lighter at the same time.

With up to 1,430 liters in volume (50.50 cubic feet), the latest addition to the Audi family has the largest luggage capacity in its competitive field; in its basic configuration it holds 490 liters (129 gallons). The 60/40 split-fold rear seats also come with the option of a load-through hatch with separate ski and snowboard bag. The A4 Avant's trunk is lined with fine carpet and features intelligent details as standard such as a reversible cargo floor and a convenient cargo cover that retracts at a touch. Audi also offers luxury features such as an electro-mechanical drive for the rear tailgate or tie-down eyelets for securing luggage.

Light and spacious: the interior

The ambience inside the new A4 Avant is light and spacious. The interior reflects Audi's strengths - the highest quality of workmanship, sophisticated looks, and logical, intuitive operation. The cockpit is driver-oriented; it borrows many features from the larger A8. Thanks to the new electro-mechanical parking brake, the manual parking brake was no longer necessary.

Even the standard climate control system has been completely redesigned. It supplies ten percent more cooling capacity, yet operates more efficiently than the previous system, thus saving about 0.2 liters of fuel per 100 km.

When it comes to safety, Audi has raised the bar, for example, with its combination of adaptive airbags, belt tensioners with variable belt force limiters and seat position sensors on the front seats. With this system, the force of the airbag deployment and belt tension level are selectively controlled depending on the seat position and the accident severity. In case of a rear-end collision, the backs of the front seats and the head rests support the upper body. This system is called Audi backguard and has received special praise during independent tests.

The engines: more performance, less fuel consumption

The new Audi A4 Avant will be launched on the market with two powerful gasoline engines and two diesel engines, thus covering a range of 105 kW (143 hp) to 195 kW (265 hp). The 2.0 TDI generating 125 kW (170 hp) will be added later to round out the range. All the engines have FSI and TDI direct fuel injection technology and the three four-cylinder engines reach high torques thanks to turbocharger technology. On average, the engine performance in this model series has increased by almost eight percent. At the same time, fuel consumption in the gasoline engines has dropped by almost 12 percent, and the TDI engines by almost nine percent.

The new 3.2 FSI is the most powerful engine that comes with the new A4 Avant. It has an output of 195 kW (265 hp) and reaches 330 Nm (243.40 lb-ft) of torque between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. Enhancements to the V6 include considerably lower inner friction and a valve actuation system called the Audi Valvelift System, which varies the stroke of the intake valves.

The 3.2 FSI delivers sport-driven performance in any situation. It powers the
A4 Avant from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 6.4 seconds and on up to a top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). At the same time, fuel consumption has dropped by 1.5 liters (0.40 gallons) compared to its predecessor.

The 1.8 TFSI, too, is a highly efficient engine. The compact and light four-cylinder unit has an output of 118 kW (160 hp) and reaches 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. Direct gasoline injection and turbocharging create the ideal combination in this model. The 1.8 liter engine responds spontaneously and provides a highly refined driving experience. It powers the car from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.9 seconds and on up to a top speed of 218 km/h (135.46 mph).

The 3.0 TDI engine in the Audi A4 Avant comes across as a widely new engine, particularly when it comes to the fuel injection system and the turbo. This three liter diesel unit, which is firmly coupled to the manual transmission, has an output of 176 kW (240 hp) and reaches a torque of 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. Its performance figures - from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.3 seconds, a top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) - demonstrate this engine's dynamic character.
The 2.0 TDI has a new common rail fuel injection system that guarantees refined running; other innovations include the turbo and the piston geometry.

Audi offers the two liter diesel engine in two versions: one developing 105 kW (143 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque and the other generating 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque. Both ensure powerful propulsion - the basic TDI accelerates the A4 Avant to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.7 seconds and facilitates a top speed of 208 km/h (129.25 mph). The more powerful of the two accelerates the Avant to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.6 seconds and on up to a top speed of 222 km/h (139.19 mph).

When it comes to power transmissions, customers can choose from a broad range of high-tech components. Six-speed manual and tiptronic transmissions (optional for the3.2 FSI) transfer the engine's torque. For the 1.8 TFSI unit and the 2.0 TDI engine generating 105 kW (143 hp), the continuously variable multitronic transmission is also an option.

The 3.2 FSI and the 3.0 TDI come equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive as a standard feature. It distributes the forces under normal driving conditions at a ratio of 40 : 60 between the front and rear axle - a configuration that perfectly harmonizes the overall dynamic character of the new A4 Avant. If needed, the Torsen differential transfers the majority of the torque to the axle with the better traction.
In the driveline of the new A4 Avant, the differential has moved directly behind the engine. It has switched places with the clutch or the torque converter.

It was therefore possible to move the front axle 154 millimeters (6.06 inches) forward. This solution provides for a longer wheel base and for the perfect distribution of the axle loads, thus improving both handling and ride comfort equally.

Redesigned from top to bottom: the dynamic suspension

The dynamic suspension of the new Audi A4 was redesigned from top to bottom. The pivot bearing and the five links of the front axle are also made of aluminum, just like the beam, which makes the front end of the body more rigid. The steering box is located far to the front and deep down to enable the steering impulse to go directly to the wheels via the tie-rods. The highly efficient servo pump in the sensitive rack-and-pinion steering improves fuel consumption by about 0.1 liter/100 km.

In the rear axle, Audi applied the track-controlled trapezoidal link principle from the larger A6 and A8 series. The suspension is made largely of aluminum; the separate layout of the springs and shock absorbers guarantees sensitive responsiveness. The new A4 Avant will roll off the production line on 16 inch and 17 inch alloy wheels, behind which are located powerful brakes. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) can be partially switched off when driving under 70 km/h (43.50 mph).

A package of innovative technology makes the driving experience even more dynamic and exciting. The optional Audi drive select control system accesses various technology components, depending on which upgrade the customer has selected. In the basic version, it influences the engine's gas intake, the tiptronic shifting points, the multitronic and the power steering as well as the steering angle of the steering wheel. By pressing a button, the driver determines whether these components should work in a comfortable, average or sporty mode. If the car is equipped with the MMI operating system, a fourth, individually programmable mode is available.

Audi drive select requires at least one of the following two high-end components. One is an adaptive controller for the shock absorbers which is connected to a sports suspension and lowers the body by about 20 millimeters (0.79 inches).

The second component is the Audi dynamic steering that operates with a superposition gear. It varies the steering ratio continuously by almost 100 percent depending on the speed driven. In the limit range, it stabilizes the new A4 Avant thanks to its lightning-fast steering interventions. The system is also extremely useful when understeering occurs.

Even greater supremacy: assistance systems

Audi equips the new Avant, upon request, with a complete range of high-tech systems that make driving an even more supreme and relaxed experience. These include the Audi parking system (a parking aid; standard for the A4 Avant Ambiente), Audi lane assist (the lane departure warning system) and Audi side assist (which warns of hazards when changing lane). Adaptive cruise control maintains the distance to the vehicle in front.

Even when it comes to multimedia, the Audi A4 Avant sets new standards. The Audi Music Interface (AMI) allows iPods to be connected. The navigation systems with MMI Basic plus or with DVD including MMI are also further upgrade options. They permit the integration of cell phones as Bluetooth car phones and are combined with the competition-beating MMI operating system. The top of the line when it comes to hi-fi enjoyment is the car's sound system from the leading Danish company Bang & Olufsen: A powerful 505 watt, ten-channel amplifier controls 14 speakers.

The new Audi A4 Avant will roll off the production line in the Attraction, Ambition, and Ambiente equipment lines. The dynamic S line offers the options of an exterior package and a sports package. The broad range of options includes luxury-class features such as air-conditioned comfort seats, the triple-zone climate control system, the advanced key which allows keyless access to the vehicle and vehicle start-up at the press of a button, and the dynamic cornering light system known as adaptive light. The large panoramic glass sunroof lights up the elegant interior. A new headlight assistant will be an additional feature in the future.

The A4 Avant will be available for sale in the spring in Germany and other European markets. The basic price of the Audi A4 Avant 1.8 TFSI Attraction model with an output of 88 kW (120 hp) will be €27,550 and it will be available in the fall.

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Press Release:

The new Audi RS 6 Avant
High performance at a new level

* V10 twin-turbo engine with 426 kW (580 bhp)
* Avant with the dynamism of a high-performance sports car
* Exclusive design and equipment, perfect quality

Outstanding top performance and maximum dynamism combined with excellent suitability for everyday use are the impressive features of the new Audi RS 6 Avant, which will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the IAA 2007 in Frankfurt. A newly developed V10 engine with FSI direct injection and twin turbochargers, permanent quattro four-wheel drive and sports suspension with Dynamic Ride Control DRC set the standard for high-performance vehicles in the luxury class. 426 kW (580 bhp) and a maximum torque of 650 Nm add up to an unforgettable performance experience. At the same time, the new Audi RS 6 Avant offers a high standard of travel comfort - on long journeys, too.

The Audi RS models from quattro GmbH are the ultimate in sportiness, complemented by powerful and elegant design, exclusive equipment and perfect quality. It has also meanwhile become a good tradition that their sports performance is combined with the high utility value of an Avant: the very first Audi RS2, which appeared in 1993, was only built as an Avant model. Although the unique Audi RS driving sensation can now be experienced in saloon, Avant and Cabriolet models - as is the case with the current RS 4 - customers especially appreciate the combination of dynamism and versatility that an Avant offers.

The new Audi RS 6 will therefore only be available as an Avant to start with, with the unrivalled combination of 580 bhp and a maximum 1,660 litres of luggage space. The Audi RS 6 Avant will be launched in April 2008.

The new leader in the performance category

The Audi RS 6 redefines the term "high performance" in the business class. With its 426 kW (580 bhp), it is the most powerful model in the current Audi range and - with the exception of pure racing cars like the Le Mans-winning Audi R10 TDI - the most potent Audi of all time. But not only that: it is also clearly superior to all competitors in the top performance category.

The ten-cylinder V-configuration engine in the RS 6 is based on the V10 powerplants of the Audi S6 and Audi S8, but has been redeveloped in practically every respect to attain the significantly higher level of performance. The twin turbochargers ensure an impressively constant stream of power over the entire engine speed range: the mighty peak torque of 650 Nm is available across the entire range from 1,500 to 6,250 rpm; maximum output is available between 6,250 and 6,700 rpm.

The road performance of a super sports car

This powerplant enables the Audi RS 6 Avant to achieve the road performance of a high-performance sports car. It requires just 4.6 seconds for the sprint from a standing start to 100 km/h, and reaches the 200 km/h mark in a mere 14.9 seconds. Only when the needle touches 250 km/h is the propulsive power electronically governed. The power-to-weight ratio, too, matches that of a first-rate sports car: after all, with a vehicle weight of 2,025 kilograms - including the dynamic and sure-footed quattro four-wheel drive - every horsepower of the RS 6 Avant has to propel just 3.5 kilograms

The ten-cylinder concept provides the ideal basis for a high-performance unit of this calibre. The V10 is unusually compact with an overall length of 670 millimetres and is very light with a total weight of 278 kilograms. TFSI technology from Audi, the combination of direct injection and turbocharging, ensures efficient power output, based on extensive experience in the field of motor sport: the R8 racing car, a pioneer of TFSI technology, captured a series of victories for the brand with the four rings at Le Mans.

Racing technology for high efficiency

FSI direct injection delivers precisely metered amounts of fuel into the combustion chambers at a pressure of up to 120 bar. This permits a compression ratio of 10.5:1, which is very high for a turbo engine. Remarkably efficient combustion is the result. The engine is thus content with a standard consumption of 13.9 litres - a very good figure in view of the potential offered.

A further feature adopted from racing technology is the dry-sump lubrication system used on the V10. By virtue of the elaborate design of the oil pump module and oil tank, reliable lubrication of all engine components and both turbochargers is guaranteed, even with constant lateral acceleration of 1.2 g.

Thanks to FSI technology and the optimised design of the turbocharger and air ducts, the ten-cylinder unit is extremely responsive and converts minimum movements of the throttle into dynamic acceleration. Yet the twin turbo is by no means a rough-and-ready sports engine: it runs smoothly and with refinement, as is typical of a ten-cylinder unit. When accelerating, of course, its dual-branch exhaust system with two oval tailpipes produces that sonorous sporty, throaty sound - an essential feature of a high-performance automobile. Those who wish to enhance this daily delight for the ears even further may opt for the alternative sports exhaust system.

tiptronic with exceptionally short shift times

The six-speed tiptronic is the perfect complement to the self-confident, powerful character of the RS 6. Its hydraulics and control system have been optimised to achieve exceptionally short shift times; the ratios have been adapted accordingly. It goes without saying that the new RS 6 transmits its tremendous power to the road via quattro permanent four-wheel drive. The latest generation not only provides substantially more driving safety and stability than a vehicle with rear-wheel drive, it also underscores the distinctly dynamic character of the RS 6.

In its basic setting, the centre differential distributes 40 percent of the power to the front and 60 percent to the rear wheels - this slightly rear-biased setup produces particularly dynamic handling characteristics.

Suspension for performance and comfort

The suspension of the Audi RS 6 has been consistently designed for maximum dynamic performance along with good travelling comfort - on long journeys, too. Shock absorber and spring settings as well as the entire elastokinematics of the four-link front suspension and the trapezoidal-link rear suspension have been adapted to the new level of performance. The characteristics of the servotronic speed-dependent power assistance have also been retuned. The steering is consequently very sensitive and delivers optimum feedback from the road.

All in all, in terms of driving feel the RS 6 combines the precision and cornering ability of a sports car with the relaxed straight-line stability of a comfortable cruiser. The standard Dynamic Ride Control DRC, familiar from the current RS 4 and consistently enhanced, plays a major role here. This system reduces pitching and rolling movements about the longitudinal and transverse axis of the vehicle in a particularly ingenious way - entirely without the aid of electronics and solely according to the laws of fluid dynamics.

An individual driving feel

With Dynamic Ride Control the shock absorbers are connected diagonally with each other via two oil lines and two control valves. Body movement - e.g. rolling when cornering at high speed on an uneven road surface - produces flows of oil, which generate additional damping force. As a result, the RS 6 boasts even more directional control through bends and reacts with substantially more precision to the steering inputs of the driver.

Dynamic Ride Control on the new RS 6 can be supplemented if desired with optional three-stage damping. This allows the driver to select the handling characteristics according to his/her personal preferences or chosen route. In the comfort setting, the sports suspension plus provides remarkable ride comfort, in the dynamic program it adjusts superbly to an enthusiastic driving style and in the sport mode it delivers maximum driving precision.

The sporty setting of the electronic stabilisation program ESP is an ideal match here: the point of intervention is very late, permitting a high degree of driving enjoyment whilst fully maintaining driving safety. Alternatively, the ESP may be completely deactivated.

Ceramic brakes for the exceptional athlete

An athlete of such exceptional calibre as the Audi RS 6 naturally requires an outstanding brake system. The standard 19-inch steel discs have been designed for maximum load. They consist of an aluminium brake-disc chamber and a cast friction ring, both connected with each other in a floating arrangement via metal pins. This design increases thermal stability and reduces weight.

Optionally, in conjunction with 20-inch wheels, a ceramic brake system is available: it boasts discs with an impressive diameter of 420 millimetres at the front and 356 millimetres at the rear, which endure the most extreme thermal loads with ease and have a very long operating life. Equally impressive are the tyre sizes: the standard 19-inch wheels with the new 10-spoke design are shod with size 255/40 R 19 tyres; the optional 20-inch wheels are fitted with 275/35 R 20 tyres.

Self-assured appearance with functional features

Its independent design lends the Audi RS 6 a striking and self-assured look - without any hint of aggression. In fact, the clear front-end design with the remodelled bumper and accentuated apertures evidently follows function: the high-performance powerplant requires a considerable amount of air to breathe as well as for cooling. The fact that it belongs to the RS family is emphasised by the matt aluminium-look single-frame grille featuring a highly polished black guard in a diamond design.

The headlights on the Audi RS 6 are miniature works of art in high-tech terms: to create space in the front apron for additional air flow, the halogen fog lights have been integrated alongside the bi-xenon headlights, optionally with adaptive light, the cornering light function.

The LED daytime running lights strip adds a distinctive touch: ten LEDs at the lower edge of each headlight unit lend the Audi RS 6 a striking appearance, by day or night. A flat cover at the top of the headlights sharpens the "look" of the business/sports car. The taillights, too, largely employ LED technology.

Striking design derived from the "Ur-quattro"

The rear of the Audi RS 6 is characterised by the oval exhaust tailpipes and the diffuser-look apron. A roof spoiler completes the aerodynamic fine-tuning of this high-performance vehicle. The side outline is distinguished by wide, flared wheel arches. Like the engine compartment lid, the front wings are made of aluminium in order to reduce weight. They accommodate the mighty wheels of the new Audi RS 6, yet are also reminiscent of a milestone in automotive history: the flat tops of the wheel arches with their clear edges were counted among the design elements of the Audi quattro - the pioneer of permanent four-wheel drive from the year 1980. A metallic/pearl effect paint finish is standard; new colours Sepang Blue, Monza Silver and Monterrey Green are exclusively reserved for the RS 6.

Elegant and exclusive interior

The interior of the new RS 6 offers an impressive synthesis of sporty elegance and exclusiveness. The extremely high standard of craftsmanship typical for Audi is complemented by an equally sporty and elegant combination of top-class materials. Carbon fibre, aluminium, leather and Alcantara create an ambience that is unique even in the world of high-performance cars.

The main control element is and remains the steering wheel: on the RS 6 the customer can choose between the multifunction sports steering wheel with a 3‑spoke design and the particularly distinctive flat-bottomed RS sports steering wheel, likewise with multifunction controls and shift paddles for the transmission. The cockpit in the typical RS design additionally features a boost pressure gauge. Displays for boost pressure, oil temperature and lap timer can be called up via the driver information system.

The inlays are made of carbon fibre and edged in aluminium, the cockpit trim gleams with its piano black finish. Additional highlights in the interior are provided by the aluminium-coloured keys of the MMI terminal on the centre console, the milled-finish door handles and the aluminium-look sports pedals. The highly contoured sports seats are covered in a combination of leather and Alcantara with an embossed RS 6 emblem or optionally wrapped completely in Silk Nappa or Valcona leather.

Extensive equipment, individual options

This high-performance vehicle naturally deserves an appropriate level of standard equipment. In addition to design and technical elements specific to the RS 6, this includes the audio system with powerful Bose Surround Sound, heated seats at the front and rear, a tyre pressure monitoring system and Audi parking system plus. Together with the wide range of high-tech options for the Audi A6 series, every RS 6 can be perfectly matched to the driver's individual wishes. The Audi RS 6 is consequently a sporty business car with great versatility, making it suitable for a variety of leisure activities, too.

As a penalty for living in America, I've never driven an RS4 Avant. That's because there aren't any. Luckily Audi was gracious enough to entrust me with a blazing blue RS4 sedan about a year back. I haven't stopped thinking about it since. There's a mental game I play when I'm bored. I shut my eyes and imagine driving. Pure, unadulterated driving. My hands on the wheel, my feet on the pedals, the feel of the stick as it clicks through the ratios. The sensation of speed, the roar of the motor, the rush of the brakes and of course the side-crushing inertia from throwing it all sideways. Other cars do very well in my petrolhead mental gymnastics. Chief among them, Mazda's new Miata, a Porsche 911 4S (997) and any number of bollocks-cracking Lotus Seven facsimiles. But the RS4 simply beats them all. To death.

We'll start with the controls, which are exemplary. Shaquille O'Neal could fit his foot on the dead pedal, which signals Audi's serious about the RS4 being a driver's car. The clutch is ideally balanced between ease of use and sporting resistance. The other two pedals are set up well for and heel-and-toeing — and what else matters? At low, around-town speeds you might detect a bit of slop in the gears and the clutch might seem a touch meaty. But get yourself on a fast road and I dare you to find more perfect implements. You can bang home gears with all your might, yet the stereotypical German precision never relents. Compare it to the shifter in an E46 M3 and the Bavarian version is like a TV remote standing upright in a bowl of chili, especially on the track. One valid gripe with the RS4 is the relative difficulty in left-foot braking. However, as the Avant is European, the flat-bottomed Lamborghini-sourced steering wheel fixes that.

The engine... What's the word? Oh yeah, hyperbolic, as well as vicious, insane, menacing, brutal, powerful, torquefied, mental, explosive, cargasmic (you have a thesaurus, use it). And the kicker is, I really can't believe it's not butter! the RS4's mill is that good! 4.2-liters and eight cylinders gives you 420 of the most rabid horsepower you could imagine, frothing enough to propel the not-quite two-ton RS4 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. And like the E63 AMG Wagon, I wouldn't be surprised if a bit more weight over the Avant's rear wheels doesn't drop that time by a tick of a second. Full torque (317 ft lbs.) is instant and constant through the rev range, peaking at 7800 rpm. Of course the engine keeps cranking to a 8,250 redline at which point its pistons are moving 82 feet per second. A car going 60 mph is moving 88 feet per second. I once described the FSI V8 as sounding and feeling like, "A volcano making love to an avalanche." I'm standing by that.

The RS4's mill weighs just 317 aluminum pounds, which is crucial as Audi decided to strap the dang thing ahead of the front half-shafts. So sure, if you've never driven the current RS4 you could conceivably criticize it for being front heavy (57/43 front to rear). But you would be fantastically wrong and an embarrassment to your wife and loved ones. Look, Porsche is able hang the 911's motor behind the car, yet the iconic sports car still handles with the best of them. By the same counterintuition, German black magic is at play in the Audi. And again the Avant, while a bit heavier, will be balanced even better. Suffice to say I've rarely driven a finer handling car. I remember a passenger of mine screeching, "How does it do that?" as a ham-fisted dilettante like me was able to break a few Newtonian principles. The AWD grip is positively stupefying. Those cars that do hug the road better? All owe a debt to Colin Chapman and are absolutely gutless when getting mercilessly passed by the RS4.

Still not sold? There's very little doubt that if we were to nominate an E39 M5 it would be a shoe in. Few cars have garnered more praise, exceeded more expectations and kicked more sports car ass than the last generation uber-Bimmer. Rightfully so, as the old M5 was and remains mind blowing. But here's the rub: the RS4 is better. It's lighter, it's more powerful, it's faster, it handles better, it's arguably more stealth, the interior is nicer, it costs less, it's more sure footed in bad weather, it goes 'round the 'Ring quicker, it stops shorter, etc. In truth, the E39 M5's only advantage over the smaller RS4 is a larger back seat. And we choose not to care. Finally, and I will always forever return to this anecdotal evidence, good friend of Jalopnik Emil Rensing at one point owned both an Audi RS4 and a Lamborghini Gallardo. These two cars couldn't be more different, save for the abysmal fuel economy and the brakes (the RS4's brakes are lifted right off the Gallardo). I asked Emil which of the two he preferred. You guessed it, the RS4.

But why the wagon? Why not the four-door? Subjectively, the five-door looks way more trick than the sedan. Like most German rides, beauty wasn't a priority when Audi dreamt up the A4. However, the Avant's hatch cures the A4 design language of its biggest weakness a.k.a. its blobby, A6-inspired rear end. Also, of course, wagons are just inherently smarter propositions. In the premiere issue of 0-60 too-tall editor-in-chief Brian Scotto has the following to say about the Avant compared to the 4-door RS4:

The addition of the hatch, though...is brilliant. Traveling with the same amount of equipment as we had in the sedan last year, the wagon is just so much roomier. It's also sexier.

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[This is the last time until 2008 the Jalopnik Fantasy Garage will appear on a Tuesday. Because of Monday Night Football, we'll be switching to every Wednesday. Readers vote the cars in or out. The idea is that we'll have 50 cars in our Fantasy Garage, the world's greatest mechanic and endless wads of cash. Would you like to nominate a car for the Fantasy Garage? Write tips@jalopnik.com with the subject line "Fantasy."]

The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage, So Far:
RUF RT12 | 1978 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | Honda 1300 Coupe 9 | 1931 Daimler Double Six 50 Corsica Drophead Coupe | Ferrari 288 GTO | Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 | 1970 Buick GSX 455 | First Generation BMW M Coupe | Bugatti Veyron 16.4 | Ford GT | Citroen SM | Porsche 928 | Jensen FF | DeTomaso Vallelunga | Audi Quattro S1 | Buick GNX | Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R | Honorary Fantasy Garager: The LS1 Powered Rotus | Lamborghini LM002 | Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe | Ferrari 250 GTO | Bentley Speed Six | Talbot-Lago T150C SS Figoni et Falaschi Raindrop/Teardrop Coupe | Porsche 917

Here's one that makes no one happy: Audi may have ceased producing the four-door version of its Bimmer-beating hot rod. Why? According to the lads at Autocar.co.uk, Audi is killing off their best car ever to make room for the upcoming twin-turbo V10 RS6, which bows in Frankfurt this September. Apparently Audi is concerned that keeping the RS4 around will hurt sales of the RS6. Which is insane. Case in point, they will continue building the RS4 Avant and Convertible. Just yesterday we were reading in GoAuto.com how BMW Group Australia's managing director Guenther Seemann doesn't consider Audi a threat. At first were thought it was just typical slick corporate PR. But if our British brothers are right, if Audi is too insecure to sell both the RS4 and RS6 side by side, then I am afraid Herr Seemann has something besides a tragic last name. He has a point. Also of course, no word whatsoever if Audi is bringing the RS4 Avant to the States. But because of the brewhaha about a crash-test issue with battery placement, they probably won't. We think Homer said it best, "Life Is Just One Crushing Defeat After Another 'Till You Just Wish Flanders Was Dead." – Jonny Lieberman

End of the line for Audi RS4 [Autocar]; BMW: Audi No Threat [GoAuto]

Related:
Audi RS4 Cabrio Coming to America; Jalopnik Reviews: 2006 Audi RS4 - He Said Supercar, He Said 'Meh' Edition - Part 1 [Internal]