The Audi RS 7 has always been a statement – a blend of breathtaking design and exhilarating performance. But for those who believe that too much is never enough, Audi unleashed the RS 7 Performance in 2017. While the standard RS 7 already boasted a formidable 560 horsepower, Audi’s engineers seemingly asked, “Why stop there?” The result is a machine that redefines automotive excess, injecting an additional 45 horsepower and a suite of performance enhancements into an already exceptional package.
Rationality might question the need for more power in a car as capable as the RS 7. However, behind the wheel of the 2017 Audi Rs 7 Performance, logic takes a backseat to pure, unadulterated driving pleasure. This isn’t just an incremental upgrade; it’s a transformation that elevates the RS 7 into a realm of truly breathtaking performance.
Pros of the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance
Unrelenting Power and Acceleration: Stepping into the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance is akin to entering a realm where speed limits are merely suggestions. While the 450-hp Audi S7 was already impressive, and the standard 560-hp RS 7 upped the ante, the Performance variant takes things to another level entirely. Packing a staggering 605 horsepower, this super sedan delivers acceleration that can only be described as visceral. The immense power is complemented by a monstrous 516 pound-feet of torque, which can surge to 553 lb-ft during overboost, ensuring relentless forward thrust in virtually any gear. The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in a mere 3.6 seconds, a figure that places it firmly in supercar territory. This car doesn’t just go fast; it devours asphalt with an insatiable hunger.
Stunning Design and Road Presence: The Audi A7’s initial debut was met with widespread acclaim for its groundbreaking design, and the RS 7 Performance amplifies this aesthetic appeal to eleven. In its most aggressive guise, the RS 7 Performance commands attention with its sleek, coupe-like silhouette and menacing stance. The blacked-out exterior elements on test models further accentuate the car’s flowing lines and sophisticated design language. It’s a vehicle that seamlessly blends sporty aggression with understated elegance, equally at home carving through canyon roads or making a grand entrance in a city center. The 2017 RS 7 Performance isn’t just fast; it’s undeniably beautiful.
Versatility and Everyday Usability: Beyond its blistering performance, the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance shines as a remarkably versatile daily driver. It’s more than just a weekend toy; it’s a car you could genuinely live with every single day. On winding back roads, it transforms into an engaging and responsive sports machine, while on long highway cruises, it provides a supremely comfortable and refined experience. Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system, when paired with winter tires, ensures confident and secure handling even in the most challenging winter conditions. If tasked with choosing a single vehicle for all of life’s demands, the RS 7 Performance would be a compelling and difficult-to-refute choice.
Luxurious and Tech-Forward Cabin: The interior of the 2017 RS 7 Performance is a testament to Audi’s commitment to luxury and technology. The seats are meticulously crafted, offering both exceptional comfort for long journeys and ample support during spirited driving. The cabin is adorned with premium materials and packed with a comprehensive suite of amenities catering to every conceivable need. While the MMI infotainment system might not be the newest iteration in Audi’s lineup, it remains intuitive to use and visually appealing, outperforming many systems found in competing luxury vehicles. The RS 7 Performance masterfully balances exhilarating performance with a serene and opulent interior environment.
Cons of the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance
Infotainment System Showing its Age: While still functional and aesthetically pleasing, the infotainment system in the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance is beginning to show its age, especially when compared to newer Audi models. The rapid pace of technological advancement in the automotive industry means that even systems considered cutting-edge a few years prior can feel dated relatively quickly. For instance, newer, less expensive Audi models, like the A3 sedan, feature Audi’s Virtual Cockpit and more advanced infotainment interfaces, highlighting the generational gap. An updated infotainment system would significantly modernize the RS 7’s interior and bring it in line with Audi’s latest technological offerings.
Subdued Exhaust Note: One common critique leveled at many Audi performance models, including the RS 7 Performance, is the relatively muted exhaust sound. While the V8 engine certainly produces a pleasing growl, particularly when the car is in Sport mode and the exhaust is set to “Dynamic,” it lacks the raw, visceral auditory experience offered by some of its competitors. Compared to the raucous V8 symphony of a Mercedes-AMG or the muscular roar of a Cadillac CTS-V, the RS 7 Performance’s exhaust note can feel somewhat restrained. Enthusiasts craving a more aggressive and pronounced engine sound might find themselves wanting a louder, more characterful exhaust system.
2017 Audi RS 7 Performance Competitors
The 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance occupies a competitive segment of the high-performance luxury market. Key rivals offering similar blends of power, luxury, and performance include:
- BMW M6 Gran Coupe: A stylish and potent four-door coupe from BMW’s M division.
- Cadillac CTS-V: An American muscle sedan delivering immense power and sharp handling.
- Mercedes-AMG CLS63: A luxurious and powerful coupe-like sedan from Mercedes-AMG.
- Porsche Panamera Turbo: A high-performance hatchback offering exceptional dynamics and versatility.
- Tesla Model S: An all-electric sedan boasting incredible acceleration and cutting-edge technology.
Each of these competitors presents a unique take on the high-performance luxury sedan formula, offering diverse strengths and catering to slightly different preferences. However, the 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance holds its own as a compelling contender, blending power, style, and usability in a captivating package.
2017 Audi RS 7 Performance Specs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Biturbocharged 4.0-Liter V8 |
| Horsepower | 605 HP |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft (553 lb-ft overboost) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.6 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 MPH |
| Fuel Economy | 15 City / 25 Highway / 18 Combined MPG |
| Drive Type | Quattro All-Wheel Drive |
| Weight | 4,497 lbs |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Cargo Volume | 24.5 Cubic Feet |
| Base Price (Original) | $110,700 |
| As-Tested Price | $136,975 |
The 2017 Audi RS 7 Performance remains a remarkable machine, a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess and commitment to pushing performance boundaries. It’s a car that delivers an intoxicating blend of speed, luxury, and everyday practicality, even if some aspects are starting to show their age. For those seeking a thrilling and versatile super sedan, the RS 7 Performance continues to be a compelling option.
