Audi: RS4 to return as Avant

Audi RS4 Avant. Photo / Supplied

The third-generation Audi RS4 will be sold only as an Avant wagon when it arrives in New Zealand early next year, now that the sedan's place in the range is filled by the RS5 Coupe.

Like the previous model, the new RS4 Avant is powered by Audi's hand-built 4.2-litre FSI V8, but this time with an extra 22kW dollop of power, taking it to 331kW at 8250rpm - the same as the similarly equipped RS5.

Top speed is restricted to 250km/h, although the limiter can be removed in some markets to enable the RS4 to get to 280km/h.

The extra power catapults the new RS4 from 0-100km/h in 4.7 seconds, two-tenths faster than the old RS4.

Torque remains the same at 430Nm from 4000rpm to 6000rpm, driving all four wheels via Audi's S-tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and trademark quattro all-wheel-drive system, with a sports differential that can alter the torque split between the front and rear axles according to need.

Despite the oomph, Audi claims the seven-speed twin-clutch S tronic box - with launch control - helps boost economy to 10.9 litres/100km, or 25.7mpg.

Squatting 20mm lower than the standard Avant on 19-inch alloy wheels with 265/35 tyres, the RS4 version gets lighter aluminium components on the five-link front suspension and trapezoidal link rear suspension.

The old hydraulic power steering makes way for a new electro-mechanical set-up, while stopping power is provided by 365mm front discs of an all-new lightweight design that shaves 3kg from the car while also dissipating heat more quickly.

Black-painted eight-piston callipers grasp the front discs, which can be upgraded to 380mm carbon-fibre ceramic stoppers at extra cost.

Driving dynamics can be altered according to driver taste, with three modes - comfort, auto and dynamic - modifying the characteristics of the steering, transmission and throttle.

As with all RS models, Audi's designers have pumped up the bodywork without going over the top. There's a series of air intakes in the lower front bumper, plus sculpted sills and flared arches.

Huge twin oval tailpipes, finished in chrome as standard or black with the optional sports exhaust, are joined by a diffuser and roof spoiler. The tweaks make the RS4 20mm longer and 24mm wider than the regular A4.

The interior is all black with carbon-fibre trim. There's a flat-bottomed steering wheel wearing the RS logo, along with sports seats, although deeper buckets can be ordered. However the luggage capacity remains at 1430 litres with the rear seats folded.

Revised, stiffer suspension drops the car by 20mm while optional dynamic ride control constantly adjusts damper response at each corner.

Carbon-ceramic brakes can be added at extra cost, but only to the front wheels, while a dynamic steering system varies the ratio according to how fast you're travelling.

It will even apply opposite lock at the limit of the tyres' adhesion, to keep you on the road.

The RS4 will debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show and will go on sale a few months later.

It will take on the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG estate, but won't have a BMW to worry about as an M3 Touring has been ruled out.