Published: 02/26/2013 

What's New for 2014

Introduction

With the 2014 Audi RS 7, the German automaker turns up the wick on its coupe-styled luxury sedan. Joining the A7 and S7, the RS 7 will match up against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG.

The RS 7's most important distinction is its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that develops a sinister 560 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Power transfers through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Audi says the V8 lifts the RS 7 from zero to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, while engine stop-start and cylinder deactivation should help the RS 7 return a combined 24 mpg.

An optional adaptive air suspension system lowers the RS 7 nearly an inch for times when drivers want more aggressive handling. A dynamic steering system that allows varying degrees of steering effort is also available.

A quick glance at the RS 7's more aggressive front end, complete with vast expanses of honeycomb grille and lower air inlets, assures that this is indeed the alpha model in the lineup. Twenty-inch wheels are standard, while 21-inch wheels and LED headlights are available for a further statement of style. Other standard and optional features include xenon headlights, tri-zone air-conditioning, a head-up display, a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, and a host of driving and safety aids including parking assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and night vision display.

One of the RS 7's more obvious advantages is its rear hatchback configuration, which results in easier cargo loading than with similar coupe-styled sedans. There are 19 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats -- more than in the CLS or Porsche Panamera -- and cargo space maxes out at 49 cubic feet. These are handy numbers if you make frequent runs to the grocery or home goods stores, but not so much if you routinely drive four adult passengers. The RS 7's raked design pinches rear headroom, but does manage to retain abundant legroom.

Audi has not announced pricing, but expect to start the discussion with your Audi dealer at around $100,000 when the 2014 Audi RS 7 arrives this fall. Check back for a full review of the RS 7, including specs, driving impressions and buying advice as it becomes available.