2023 Audi RS7 Performance

The Audi RS7 is limited to just one state of tune, but after a quick test drive, only the truly power-hungry would be asking for more. It sources power from the widely used twin-turbocharged gasoline 4.0-liter V8 supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid electric motor with combined performance figures of 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. Using the acclaimed quattro all-wheel-drive system and a responsive automatic transmission with a lock-up clutch launch control feature, it'll sprint from 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.5 seconds. As standard, it will hit a limited top speed of 155 mph but if you want this increased to a max speed of 190 mph, you'll need to add the carbon-ceramic brakes. As quick as the Audi is, the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe is even quicker; it needs just three seconds for the benchmark sprint.

The Audi RS7's twin-turbo 4.0-liter TFSI V8 is the only engine option and delivers impressive specs of 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. This is assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid electric starter generator and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Available exclusively with the all-wheel-drive system, this unit provides the luxury midsize sedan with a pleasant combination of refined and rapid engine characteristics, making it a suitable drivetrain for both in-city and highway usage.

Adding to the appeal of its daily usability is the cylinder on-demand deactivation system that shuts down half of the cylinder bank. This only takes place in higher gears at lower engine speeds but translates to quieter engine sounds and lower fuel consumption. The mild-hybrid electric motor fills in the gaps by supplying the drivetrain with power up to speeds of 14 mph and maintains power at coasting speeds of 34 to 99 mph.

Having this technology available in the RS7 is welcoming and doesn't detract from the performance side of things. Despite there being so many moving parts throughout the drivetrain, the delivery of power from the engine to the wheels is near-instantaneous. The manner in which it transitions from a silent urban cruiser into a mile-eating monster with a boisterous engine note is so contradictory that it'll have you feeling as if you've just stepped into an entirely different car.

Despite having an array of fuel-saving technologies and a respectable drag coefficient figure of 0.32 cd, the Audi RS7 still has a fire-breathing twin-turbo gasoline V8 so there aren't amazing gas mileage returns. As per the EPA's miles per gallon ratings, the performance four-door coupe will deliver a 14/21/17 mpg on the city/highway/combined cycles.

A gas tank size of 19.3 gallons means that you can expect a range of about 328 miles.