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The new Audi RS 4. Unleashed.
New dimensions in driving dynamics combined with innovative ideas – plus
exciting styling and a level of equipment that lives up to even luxury-class
standards: the new Audi RS 4 combines the latest high-performance product from
quattro GmbH in a thoroughbred sports saloon with supreme everyday driving
qualities in the premium segment.
This latest generation is the first time that three new RS models have
appeared simultaneously. In Australia, the line-up will be complete by the first
quarter of 2007. Each version represents the crowning glory of the corresponding
A4 car line.
Numerous technical innovations – many of which hail from motorsport – give
the new Audi RS 4 its unique class and character. These features include the
high-revving concept now being introduced for the first time in a production
Audi, innovative FSI technology, as well as the latest generation of quattro
drive with asymmetric/dynamic torque distribution. Developing a maximum output
of 309 kilowatts (420 bhp), the V8 revs up to a speed of 8,250 rpm. With
its displacement of 4,163 cc, this outstanding engine breaks through the magic
barrier for a production saloon of 100 bhp per litre.
The highly compact power unit reaches its peak torque of 430 Nm at 5,500 rpm.
90 percent of the total torque is available between 2,250 and 7,600 rpm. The
result is excellent pulling power at all times, enabling the driver to drive in
a relaxed style without frequent gear changes.
Audi's RS 4 saloon employs groundbreaking FSI technology. The petrol
direct-injection unit delivers enhanced power output based on more efficient
combustion of the fuel/air mixture. The engine is also responsive. The
performance of the RS 4 clearly demonstrates these enhancements: it reaches the
100 km/h mark in 4.8 seconds, and 200 km/h in 16.6 seconds. Top speed is limited
electronically to 250 km/h.
The efficiency of FSI technology has already been demonstrated impressively
in Audi’s four-time Le Mans winner, the Audi R8.
Another key requirement for the developers was an optimum power-to-weight
ratio. Like the RS 4 saloon, the Cabriolet and Avant have also been subjected to
a rigorous regime of weight reduction measures to make sure that they are
equally sporty. It was important that the Audi RS 4 should weigh not a gram too
many.
Practically every part was checked in terms of its weight. The front wings
and the bonnet are therefore made of aluminium, as are most of the chas¬sis
components. The specially designed RS bucket seats are not only very light, but
also offer excellent body support.
The result is a power-to-weight ratio of just 3.93 kilos per bhp – a
sports car-like accomplishment which would have been inconceivable for a
mid-size saloon just a few years ago.
New generation of quattro drive
The challenge is to transfer all this power to the road in the best way
possible. For the last 25 years, Audi’s answer to these special demands has been
its quattro drive. The latest generation of Audi’s permanent four-wheel drive,
which is featured for the first time on the RS 4, offers a 40 (front) to 60
(rear) asymmetric/dynamic torque distribution ratio and the self-locking
Torsen centre differential and, along with its sports suspension, has propelled
the RS 4 into entirely new dimensions in driving dynamics. Indeed, Audi quattro
technology still provides traction when other drive concepts have long since
reached their limits. quattro drive is further enhanced by DRC (Dynamic Ride
Control) which significantly reduces both the rolling and pitching motions of
the vehicle.
The brakes, too, represent new dimensions in their innovation. The 18-inch
format provides optimum deceleration. The perforated ventilated brake discs at
the front measure 365 millimetres in diameter, with similarly perforated
ventilated brake discs at the rear in 324-millimetre diameter. Flow-enhanced
ventilation geometry incorporating NACA jets on the underbody of the car ensures
optimum cooling of the brakes.
As a result, brake fading is significantly reduced even under extreme loads,
such as on the race track.
The latest generation of ESP has been modified specifically to suit the
special properties of the high-performance RS 4. Its interventions are now later
and shorter.
It is also possible to disable the ESP in two stages. In the first stage only
the traction control (ASR) function is disabled; the other ESP functions remain
fully active. In the second stage the ESP is completely deactivated, including
the traction control. All electronic control then ceases. The integrated dry
braking function provides additional safety in wet weather. When the road is wet
the brake pads are applied to the brake discs at regular intervals, unnoticed by
the driver, and the brakes are dried.
Design
The RS 4 features racing technology in plain clothes. While many of its
features look similar to the new Audi A4, the RS 4 is far more than just a fast
derivative of Audi’s successful mid-size saloon. The car is an almost entirely
brand-new development tailored to the highest performance requirements.
The single-frame radiator grille, the rear end with its distinctly horizontal
styling and the sculpted sides all prove that the RS 4 is truly a member of the
A4 family. However, the radiator grille in diamond look, the additional air
inlets in the front end as well as wheels developed specifically for the RS 4
clearly differentiate the car from a standard Audi A4. The newly designed rear
apron encompassing two large tailpipes as well as the discreet but effective
spoiler integrated into the boot lid and the rear side panels all bear clear
testimony to the saloon’s dynamic potential.
Compared with the Audi A4, the car's trim has been lowered by 30 millimetres.
The developers have also widened the front and rear track, resulting in a
widening of the vehicle body. However, all these modifications to the body of
the car are not only significant in terms of design, they are also functional in
character.
Inside, the RS 4 combines the functionality of a sports car with the
luxurious ambience so typical of all Audi models. Leather, aluminium, and carbon
are the predominant materials. But at the same time the RS 4 comes with all the
additional qualities typical of a genuine sports car.
This becomes clearer when sitting in the car. The RS bucket seats, with their
high side sections, offer firm hold. They also have an additional feature. By
pressing buttons on the seat the side sections can be inflated to mould
perfectly to the driver's anatomy. The flat-bottomed RS sports steering wheel
and the engine start button on the centre console are also clearly reminiscent
of motorsport, as indeed are the aluminium pedals.
The Sport button on the steering wheel delivers even more dynamic performance
when required. The accelerator characteristic changes progressively, so the
engine is perceived to respond sooner. A flap in the exhaust system opens to
provide the RS 4 with an even sportier sound. As an additional feature, the side
sections of the bucket seats are inflatable. This enhances the side hold. The
steering wheel also provides buttons to operate the driver information system.
The RS 4 Avant
Racing technology clad in civilian garb is a principle that applies both to
the RS 4 Avant and to its saloon counterpart. The maxim that beautiful estate
cars are called Avant still applies. Sportiness and verstaility are combined in
an impressive blend in the new Audi RS 4 Avant. This is the direct successor to
the first RS 4 generation, which was available exclusively as an Avant. Although
in production for only slightly more than one and a half years, sales of the
first-generation RS 4 Avant topped 6,000 units. This statistic suitably reflects
the immense popularity of the unique concept. With its functionality and
outstanding driving characteristics, the new Audi RS 4 Avant surpasses the first
generation in every respect.
The RS 4 Cabriolet
The RS 4 Cabriolet puts the brand at the forefront of the four-seater
convertible segment. Audi has never before built such a powerful open-top car.
The high performance and above all high-torque V8 FSI engine transforms the
open-top RS 4 into a sports car that is also ideal for relaxed cruising. As well
as sporty performance, the RS 4 Cabriolet treats its passengers to an acoustic
experience of the finest calibre, because the unmistakable sound of the V8
engine is enough to set the pulse of any car enthusiast racing. Particularly
with its roof open, the hearty sound of the eight-cylinder engine reaches the
occupants' ears unfiltered.
The electro-hydraulic hood can be opened entirely automatically in 21
seconds. The roof can be operated at up to speeds of 30 km/h. This makes it
possible to open or close the roof when out and about in town, for instance, or
before parking the car. The glass rear window is heated. This guarantees a clear
view to the rear in all weather.
The acoustic hood, a standard feature of the RS 4 Cabriolet, sets new
standards for soft tops. New fabrics of a higher material density and an
additional cushioned mat around the C-post keep the noise level inside the car
with the hood up virtually on a par with the saloon.
As with the saloon and Avant, the ride height of the Cabriolet has been
lowered by 30 millimetres compared with the A4 Cabriolet. This emphasises the
car's sporty appearance.
Even if the Audi Cabriolet's weight has been rigorously trimmed down, in
common with all other RS 4 models, no corners have been cut with either its
equipment or its standards of safety. The further improved crash strength of the
latest A4 Cabriolet generation has likewise benefited the open-top RS 4. The
front and side airbags are standard features, as are the rollover bars that
extend behind the rear seats in the event of the car overturning.
Equipment
Driving the Audi RS 4 means driving a sports car without sacrificing any of
the comfort features. The RS 4 comes with virtually all the features already
benefiting the Audi A4. Apart from a wide range of safety com¬ponents, this also
means deluxe automatic air conditioning, central locking with remote control and
electric front windows. Further features of the RS 4 include the Audi parking
system at the front and rear, the concert radio system as well as sports
suspension with variable damping (DRC), Audi navigation system plus and the
adaptive light dynamic cornering lights.
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