Some things in life just aren't fair. Whether it be monetary issues, relationships, or even life itself, it's important to just keep on living. Now that Audi has just released full details of their insane 2013 RS 4 Avant, that whole life isn't fair mantra has just taken on a new meaning. Why is that? The RS4 Avant is set only for the European market. The third-generation RS 4 Avant is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 with 450hp and 317lb-ft of torque that's available between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm.
Mated to a seven-speed S tronic transmission that distributes power to the standard Quattro all-wheel-drive system, it also utilizes launch control that allows it to go from 0 to 60 mph in a blazing 4.7 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Just to put this power into perspective a bit, this is the same high-revving normally aspirated V8 that powers the RS 5 Coupe. How do you like them apples? According to the official Audi press release, the RS 4 Avant has an abundance of aluminum, specifically in the complex design of the chassis.
Many of the components of the five-link front suspension and the self-tracking trapezoidal-link rear suspension are made of aluminum. The car's body is also lowered by some 20mm compared to the standard A4 Avant. It also sits on a set of polished 19-inch, ten-spoke forged aluminum wheels. And if those aren't good enough, Audi also offers a set of beefy 20-inchers. The exterior also receives several upgrades when compared to the standard Avant such as a matte-look aluminum finish on the hexagonal single-frame grille, LED daytime running lights, and flared wheel arches.
In fact, the flared rear side elements are a nod to the original all-wheel drive pioneer, the 1980 Audi Quattro. Buyers (Euro only, of course) have a choice of eight exterior colors such as Prism Silver and Panther Black. Stepping inside, the interior is clad completely in black, with the exception of the Moon Silver roofliner. There's also an abundance of chrome switches, carbon inlays, brushed matte aluminum, and black piano and stainless steel finishes. The front heated seats are covered in a combination of black leather and Alcantara along with Nappa leather trim throughout the interior.
The driver information display system even has an RS menu with a lap timer and an oil thermometer. Combined with some 50.50 cu ft. of cargo space, there's little to no doubt that next to the Cadillac CTS-V Wagon, this is surely one of the best station wagons ever built. Period. Set to arrive in German dealerships next fall, the base price is set to start at €76,000. If there was ever a reason to consider European citizenship, the 2013 Audi RS 4 Avant may be it. Or Audi could just bring it stateside.
