Photos of the latest high-performance member of Audi’s A4 lineup, the RS4 Avant, have leaked onto the internet, revealing an aggressive new look for the 444 horsepower wagon from Ingolstadt.
Up front, the RS4 Avant sports a unique grille, massive lower air intakes and an aluminum look splitter. LED headlamps give the car a menacing air, while a rear diffuser hints at its sporting intentions.
Under the hood of the RS4 Avant is a upgraded version of the old model’s 4.2-liter V8 making 444 horsepower at a stratospheric (and likely glorious sounding) 8250 rpm, reports Autocar. Torque is unchanged, checking in at 317lb ft between 4000 and 6000 rpm.
Handling shifting duties is a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox with paddle shifters that helps the car sprint from zero-to-60 mph in 4.7 seconds on the way to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (or 174 mph with an optional performance package). A standard launch control system helps make for easy, repeatable acceleration runs. Power is sent to all four wheels through Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Pointing to the fact that hot wagons consistently outsell their sedan counterparts in Europe, Audi has made the decision to offer the latest RS4 solely in Avant form. Sadly, the car isn’t expected to make its way stateside.
Look for more details and images to be released when the RS4 Avant makes its official debut at the Geneva show in March.
