Audi Supercars
AUDI SUPERCARS
Audi ups the ante with three new models
Often regarded as the 'poor relation' in the trio of German luxury car makers, Audi is raising the bar with the introduction of three 'supercar' models.
This comes on top of the introduction of its first luxury SUV, the Q7, and the stunning second generation TT coupe.The RS 4 Avant, S6 S8 will be low selling and S models, but for those lucky enough to score one, they offer luxury, exclusivity and what Audi claims is "exceptional performance".
The RS 4 Avant (Avant = wagon) is the premier model in the A4 Series, priced at $168,100. The wagon joins the RS 4 sedan which was introduced in May '06. A cabriolet version will complete the family this month, priced at $187,500.
The RS 4 Avant shares the same 309kW/ 430Nm 4.2-litre V8 as the sedan, driven through a 6-speed manual transmission with sports mode. It also features 19-inch wheels, sports seat and sports suspension which provides dynamic ride control and of course quattro all-wheel drive.
Things get interesting with the Audi S6 and S8, both of which feature 5.2-litre V10 engines originating from Lamborghini. The S6 5.2-litre V10 features FSI technology and an output of 320kW. This marks the first time that a V10 engine has been incorporated into a member of the A6 family.The S6 is priced at $195,900.
The Audi S8 is also a first, with the Lamborghini-inspired V10 engine and 331kW of power, wrapped in a luxurious package. The S8 also has a Bang & Olufsen advanced sound system as a standard feature and is priced at $259,900.
The trio of supercars seek to combine Audi's experience in motor sport with daily motoring - a marriage that is not always successful. The V10s are sheer performance machines delivering a claimed 0-100km/h acceleration under 6 seconds. The new range also incorporate FSI petrol direct injection, quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive cruise control and race-bred ceramic brakes.
In brief: Audi S6, S8
Engine: 5.2-litre V10
Power: 320kW at 6800rpm (S6); 331Kw @ 7000 rpm (S8)
Torque: 540Nm @ 3000-4000rpm
Drive: quattro all-wheel drive
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Price: From $195,900 (S6); from $259,900 (S8)
