NAIAS 2013: New Audi RS7 Sportback is a Stylish but Powerful Beast [Updated]

While the U.S. won’t be getting the new RS6 Avant, its brutally powerful 552hp (560PS) twin-turbocharged V8 engine will make it on this side of the Atlantic, as Audi has just unwrapped the new RS7 Sportback at the Detroit Motor Show.

The 4.0-liter unit also makes 516 lb-ft (700Nm) available constantly between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm and is connected to a standard eight-speed tiptronic and the brand’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

Audi claims a zero to 62mph (100km/h) sprint time of just 3.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph (250km/h) in standard configuration. However, buyers can opt for the dynamic package, in which case top speed is lifted to 174mph (280 km/h), and the dynamic package plus that allows the car to top out at 190mph (305km/h).

Not that fuel economy will concern those who can afford the RS7, but Audi says it returns an average consumption of 9.8 liters of fuel per 100 km, which is equal to 24.0 mpg US.

The 4.0-liter TFSI V8 features a cylinder on demand (COD) system, which at low to medium loads and engine speeds, can deactivate half the cylinders until the driver accelerates more strongly again, to improve fuel economy.

A specially tuned air suspension that can lower the body by 20 millimeters (0.79 in) and which features adaptive damping is offered as standard, with a tauter sport suspension featuring steel springs, three-stage adjustable dampers and dynamic ride control (DRC) being available as an alternative.

Stopping power is provided four internally vented discs, the front measuring 390 millimeters, as standard, while 420 millimeter (16.54 in) carbon fiber ceramic discs with anthracite gray calipers are offered as a pricey option.

As you would expect, the specially calibrated electronic stabilization control (ESC) has a Sport mode and can also be deactivated entirely.

Visually, a new front grille treatment with honeycomb structure and a different bumper designs, two large oval tailpipes, and chunkier side skirts along with the standard 20-inch or optional 21-inch alloy wheels distinguish the RS7 from its lesser siblings. There’s also a carbon fiber package that can be seen on the white demonstrator car.

The interior of the RS7 is beefed up with a flat-bottom sports steering wheel, carbon inlays, body hugging sport seats, illuminated door entry sills and revised instrument panel graphics.

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