2007 Audi RS4

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 components, 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.

Drivetrain

New generation of quattro drive

Getting all this power on to the road was of course a significant challenge. Audi's answer is - of course - its quattro permanent four-wheel drive system. A quarter of a century's experience and market leadership in the four-wheel drive car segment represent genuine benefits for Audi's customers. The RS 4 features a new generation of quattro drive with asymmetric/dynamic torque distribution.

A Torsen centre differential distributes the power to the front and rear wheels as required, thereby ensuring optimum traction.
In variable road conditions the power can be immediately diverted in full to the front or rear depending on the torque. The new distribution system, which under normal road conditions transmits 40 percent of the power to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear, makes the Audi RS 4 an even more impressively dynamic drive. Alongside traction, controllability, stability, load reversal and transitioning, aspects of agility and steering have also been substantially enhanced, underscoring the highly sporty character of the car.

The term "Torsen" comes from "torque" and "sense" which, taken together, quite literally means "sensing the development and build-up of torque". The Torsen differential is a self-locking worm gear. Thus the locking action is only prompted under the influence of the drive train. On braking and cornering the gearbox does permit differences in engine speed, however.

The rear axle differential is fitted with additional cooling fins. This is Audi's response to the high loads to which the RS 4 may be subjected.

Ensuring very short gearshift travel, the six-speed gearbox combines compact dimensions with low weight and a high standard of shift comfort. Adapted to the power unit of the RS 4, the gearing provides excellent power yield in practice, conveying the output of the engine to the driven wheels of the car with maximum efficiency.

Suspension

In full control at all times

Even the best drive train is nothing without the right chassis and suspension. In the Audi RS 4, quattro GmbH has consistently applied all the benefits of the quattro drive system and the engine. The standard sports suspension ensures that the engine's output is transferred just as needed to the road.

This superiority is ensured on Audi's new sports saloon by a high-performance aluminium suspension with a four-link front axle and a trapezium-link rear axle. Precise steering, with sensitive feedback, sporty agility and excellent directional stability make the RS 4 the perfect car both for the motorway or country road and for the race track.

Each wheel on the front axle is guided by four aluminium transverse links.

The trapezium-link rear axle offers top-class driving dynamics. This torsion-proof and non-flexing trapezium link absorbs a large portion of the forces acting on the wheel. Together with the track link further to the rear, this special configuration defines the elastokinematic behaviour of the rear axle with ultimate precision.

Dynamic Ride Control

The Audi RS 4 comes with Audi's DRC Dynamic Ride Control, as featured for the first time in the Audi RS 6. DRC serves to reduce both body roll and pitch along the car's longitudinal and lateral axes.

This is accomplished by interconnecting the dampers diagonally by way of a central valve. Body movements when driving off are largely eliminated in this way, as are pitching movements when braking, or rolling when cornering fast. This has further enhanced the driving dynamics offered by the RS 4.

DRC has already been supremely well received in the RS 6. In the RS 4 quattro GmbH has succeeded in making the system more compact and lighter. Dynamic Ride Control employs no electronics whatsoever.

The combination of quattro drive, DRC, and the suspension specifically geared to the RS 4 allows this outstanding high-performance Audi to hold the road safely even in the absolute limit ranges at top cornering speeds, when other drive concepts have long since reached their limits. It goes without saying that the
Audi RS 4 features the latest generation of ESP stability control designed and configured especially for this car. Its interventions are now later and shorter. It is also possible to delay intervention further, or to disable the ESP altogether.

19-inch wheels as standard

The RS 4 is fitted as standard with 19-inch wheels and 255/35 R19 size tyres.

For the RS 4 the Audi designers produced a range of light and attractive cast aluminium wheels of 7 arm, double spoke design. A special manufacturing method means the wheels are stronger, thinner and lighter.

Compared with the standard A4, the RS 4 is lowered by 30 millimetres.

A further important change is the wider track, increased by 37 millimetres at the front and 47 millimetres at the rear. The spring and damper tuning has of course also been adapted to the sporty dynamics of the RS 4.

The servotronic steering has been specially tuned to the requirements of the sports saloon. With its direct response and short travel, it is outstandingly well suited to the overall character of the RS 4.

Brakes for the race track

The RS 4's braking is also impressive, based on an 18-inch brake system. The perforated and ventilated brake discs measure 365 millimetres in diameter at the front and 324 millimetres at the rear. They are designed in a floating arrangement, meaning that the cast-iron friction ring of the brake system is bolted on to the aluminium brake disc cover. The result is a significant improvement of the brakes' resistance to fading, particularly under extreme loads. A further side-effect of this technology is a reduction in unsprung masses.

A further advantage is the optimisation of brake air flow by means of NACA jets keeping the brake discs appropriately cool at all times.

Featuring eight-piston fixed callipers originally developed for motorsport on the front wheels (four pistons and two brake pads on the inside and outside of each brake disc) as well as single-piston swing callipers on the rear wheels, the Audi RS 4 offers supreme stopping power and directional stability. The ESP 8.0 stability program, electronic brake force distribution, and the ABS anti-lock brakes have all been tailored to the specific dimensions of the brake system.

An additional boost to safety is provided by the ESP stability program, with its dry braking function. When the road is wet the system lightly applies the brake pads to the discs at regular intervals, unnoticed by the driver, to sweep water from them and so improve braking response. Further features included in the ESP stability program are the electronic differential lock (EDL), traction control (ASR), electronic brake force distribution (EBFD) and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

It is also possible to disable the ESP in two stages: in the first stage only the traction control (ASR) function is disabled; in the second stage the ESP is completely deactivated, including the traction control. As a result, there is no control intervention in any driving situation.

Design

Self-assured and highly functional

The design of the Audi RS 4 combines functionality with aesthetics. The car's appearance embodies the ultimate in uncompromising sportiness. In particular, the RS 4 demonstrates its enormous performance potential where such qualities really count, boasting features such as:

* Flared wheel arches
* Bumpers in RS design with the trim grille in diamond look
* Flared side sills as well as door cut-out trim strips matched to the sills
* A rear spoiler integrated in the boot lid and side panels
* A twin-chamber exhaust system with oval tailpipes
* Aerodynamically optimised twin-arm design RS exterior mirrors in aluminium look
* Newly-designed 19-inch seven-double-spoke alloy wheels
* RS 4 badging at front and rear and on the side rubbing strips
* Trim strips in matt aluminium

Proving that form and function are equally important, the sporty look of this exceptional saloon is combined with an equally high level of practicality.

The RS 4 Avant

The maxim that beautiful estate cars are called Avant still applies today. Sportiness and versatility 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. With its functionality and outstanding driving characteristics, the new Audi RS 4 Avant surpasses the first generation in every respect. Even more sporty, spellbinding and practical: this Avant is a very special car.

The RS 4 Cabriolet

The RS4 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 RS4 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.

The large inlets on the front end of the RS 4 guarantee optimum cooling of the V8 FSI engine. Flared wheel arches offer plenty of space for the 19-inch wheels. With enlarged tailpipe cross-sections, the twin-chamber exhaust system provides for significantly reduced exhaust gas counterpressure.The 30 millimetre lowering not only provides a sporty look, but is also a major factor in delivering the outstanding levels of driving dynamics the car offers.

Despite this uncompromising sportiness, the car's close family relationship with the Audi A4 is unmistakeable.

The distinctive single-frame grille and the sweeping headlights, borrowed from the Nuvolari prototype, underscore the family heritage of the RS 4.

Audi offers the RS 4 in nine exterior colours. The range extends from the subtle Avus Silver to the luminous Imola Yellow. And through Audi's customisation programme, quattro GmbH offers even the most discerning customer a virtually unlimited range of individual colours and combinations.

Interior

The premium sports car

Premium quality typical of Audi and the levels of genuine sportiness typical of an RS model are combined in harmony in the interior of the RS 4. As soon as you sit in it, you know that you are in a true sports car.

In the saloon and Avant, the front passengers are accommodated on sports bucket seats. With their high side sections, these provide maximum support even when the car is driven energetically, for instance round a racetrack. On these seats, the width of the seat base and seat back can be adjusted electrically as preferred. Even greater lateral support can be obtained by pressing the Sport button. Pressing the Sport button also modifies the characteristic line of the accelerator, producing a more graduated engine response.

As well as calling up a modified, more progressive engine response with greater spontaneity of throttle response and an even more sporty sound from the exhaust system, this function inflates the seat side sections, supporting the driver even more securely. The RS bucket seats are available either in full leather throughout or in a combination of leather and cloth. Sports seats are available as an option.

The Cabriolet is equipped with leather-upholstered sports seats, which likewise provide very good support but also take the higher comfort requirements of Cabriolet drivers into account. Here too, RS bucket seats are available as an option.

Attention to detail is demonstrated in the choice of materials and the workmanship applied in processing them. Leather, aluminium and carbon are the predominant materials in the interior. The flat-bottomed RS steering wheel, developed exclusively for the Audi RS 4, is covered in perforated leather. Carbon-fibre trim inside the car serves to additionally accentuate the sporting qualities of the RS 4.

A range of further trim options are also available: Piano finish black, Fine grain myrtle nutmeg and Aluminium matt. A further detail is the design of the milled aluminium door openers, echoed also on the gear knob and the steering wheel.The gear knob, handbrake lever and steering wheel are also covered in perforated leather.
The driver information system incorporated into the typical RS-design cockpit additionally features an oil temperature gauge as well as a stopwatch with lap timer function - a useful extra for those special track days so beloved of RS 4 drivers.

The driver information system welcomes the driver upon entering the car with the exclusive RS welcome logo. The eight-cylinder engine is started by turning the key and pressing the Start button in the centre console.

The aluminium pedals are a further echo of the motorsport world, and also help to save weight.

Attractive and convenient, the RS 4 Avant's load area combines an exclusive atmosphere with optimum usability and a versatile layout. The successful interior design and multifunctionality set new standards in this class.

A virtually level load area is created by folding down the divided rear seat. The luggage cover and load guard are housed in a space-efficient housing that can be folded away together with the seat back. The variable load-area floor provides generous storage capacity. It can be opened wholly or in part, or removed altogether. The low loading lip and smooth side edges facilitate loading of objects of up to one metre in width. The smooth-surfaced inner side panels keep the load area looking neat and tidy. A full range of ingenious details such as a net for small items and lashing points enhance the practical utility of the Audi RS 4 Avant.

Safety

Superior traction in every situation

The safety package Audi has put together for the RS 4 is both comprehensive and highly sophisticated. Particular attention was paid in the development of this high-performance saloon to the overriding need for active driving safety. The quattro permanent four-wheel drive system already offers more traction than conventional drive systems in critical driving situations. Its variable distribution of power across the two axles now also provides even greater benefit.

An additional boost to safety is provided by the ESP, with its integrated dry braking function. When the road is wet the system lightly applies the brake pads to the discs at regular intervals, unnoticed by the driver, to sweep water from them and so improve braking response.

The ESP can be disabled in two stages: in stage 1 only the traction control (ASR) is disabled; the full ESP functionality is retained. In stage 2 the ESP is completely deactivated, including the traction control. The electronic control ceases.

The RS 4 features a tyre pressure monitoring system as standard. The sensors located in the wheels continually measure the tyre pressure at three-second intervals. In the event of an acute loss of pressure, the driver information system gives the driver both a visual warning sign and an acoustic alarm.

Extra-large brakes ensure stopping power quite comparable to that of a thoroughbred sports car. The perforated, ventilated brake discs measure
365 millimetres in diameter at the front, and 324 millimetres at the rear.

Passive safety of the highest standard

Great attention was also paid to the issue of passive safety in the development of the RS 4. A rigid body, consistent and coordinated deformation properties, state-of-the-art restraint systems - including the two-stage front airbags - and, last but not least, the sideguard head airbag system provide exemplary levels of occupant protection.

This head-level side airbag system covers virtually the entire side window area, from the A-post to the C/D-post. The airbags themselves are inflated by a hybrid gas generator, which maintains the airbag pressure for several seconds to provide ongoing protection.

This means sideguard provides full protection even in a secondary collision such as when the car rolls over following initial impact. And the new RS bucket seats, in conjunction with the belt system, offer additional safety and restraint in the event of a side-on collision so that the RS 4 does not even require side airbags in order to meet the stringent crash test requirements.

Equipment

Light and comprehensive

Although weight was one of the main considerations in the development of the Audi RS 4, the car boasts an extensive range of equipment. Standard features include a deluxe automatic air conditioning system, cruise control, BOSE sound and the acoustic parking system at the front and rear protects against irritating dents and scratches when parking. The high-intensity xenon plus headlights provide optimum visibility.

The RS logo is worked in to the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel as well as in the seat upholstery and door sills. Two of the func­tions controlled directly from the ergonomically designed RS sports steering wheel are the lap timer and the Sport button. Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) provides sporty, dynamic handling by significantly reducing body roll and pitch. The Audi RS 4 comes with 19-inch wheels of seven-double-spoke design. Here, too, weight saving is combined with sporty design.