- Second-gen RS7 launched at Rs 1.94 crore
- Packs in a 600hp, 800Nm mild-hybrid V8
- 0-100kph in 3.6s; top speed electronically limited to 250kph
Fans of fast four-doors in India have a reason to rejoice – the 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback has been launched today, priced at Rs 1.94 crore (ex-showroom, pan-India). This second-generation RS7 Sportback joins Audi India’s line-up as its fourth model on sale at present, alongside the A6, A8 L and Q8.
What’s the most important thing I need to know about the new RS7?
The highlight of the new-generation RS7 is clearly what lies under its hood – a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 (paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system) that produces a hefty 600hp and 800Nm of torque. That power figure is marginally lower than the previous-gen RS7 Performance’s 605hp, but torque is up by a notable 50Nm. Teamed with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, the 4.0-litre V8 can take the RS7 Sportback from 0-100kph in a scant 3.6 seconds, and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph. Opting for the Dynamic Package pushes the top speed up to 280kph, and Dynamic Plus takes that up further to 305kph. As standard, the new RS7 Sportback gets cylinder-deactivation tech and adaptive air suspension, while carbon-ceramic brakes, all-wheel steering and a heads-up display are optional extras.
How different is the new RS7 from the standard A7 inside and out?
Audi has pulled out all the stops to give the second-gen RS7 Sportback an identity of its own. It has an aggressive face – a blacked-out single-frame grille with an RS-specific honeycomb finish, a redesigned bumper with larger air intakes and Matrix adaptive LED headlights. It sits lower than the standard A7, and has wider front and rear tracks, too. Wheel choices for the RS7 Sportback include standard 21-inch alloys, with 22-inch wheels available as an option. At the back, the LED tail-lights are linked by an LED light bar; there’s an electronically-operated spoiler that pops up at speeds over 100kph, and a new rear bumper that incorporates oval tailpipes – a signature RS touch.
Interior-wise, the RS7 retains the basic layout of the second-generation A7, with a dual-touchscreen setup and the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, but adds a more sporting flavour with an RS-spec flat-bottom steering wheel featuring aluminium paddle shifters, RS sport seats and a healthy dose of Alcantara.
Which cars does the new RS7 Sportback rival?
At this price, the Audi RS7 Sportback costs Rs 39 lakh more than the BMW M5, which also offers 600-plus-horsepower, all-wheel drive and a sub-4-second 0-100kph time. The AMG E63, meanwhile, is no longer listed on Mercedes-Benz's India website.
Buyers of high-performance luxury sedans are somewhat spoilt for choice.
What do you think of the new Audi RS7 Sportback, and would you pick it over the AMG E63 S and M5 Competition? Let us know in the comments.
Also see:
2020 Audi RS7 Sportback first look video