Audi has officially unveiled its new RS7 Sportback, the sixth RS model to join the Audi range.
Unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show, the RS7 replaces the old RS6 saloon (the RS6 is now available in 'Avant' estate form only) and is Audi's answer to the BMW M6 GranCoupe and the Mercedes CLS63 AMG.
Like its rivals, the RS7 is a four-door, high-performance coupe. Under the bonnet, the RS7 is fitted with the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 as the RS6 Avant, developing 552bhp and 553lb-ft of torque. Audi claims that the new car will accelerate from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds and carry on accelerating up to a limited 155mph. Buyers will also be able to spec the RS7 with the 'Dynamic Plus' pack, which raises the RS7's top speed to 189mph.
Such is the amount of torque delivered by the RS7's monstrous V8, it was discovered that Audi's customary seven-speed DSG gearbox wasn't up to the job, and as a result the RS7 channels the engine's power to the Quattro all-wheel drive system via a conventional eight-speed automatic.
The RS7 sits 20mm lower to the ground than the standard A7 on 20-inch alloy wheels. A widened track and air suspension should also ensure that the RS7 remains planted on the road.
Prices have yet to be revealed for the RS7, but Audi claims that a starting price of around £84,000 is on the cards when the car reaches dealers in July.
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