2017 Audi RS7: What You Need to Know

The Biggest, Baddest Sedan in Audi's Arsenal

As if the Audi A7 five-door luxury hatchback were not desirable enough, Audi has the 2017 RS7. This performance version builds on the A7, adopting its hatchback body and sleek design, then adds more power, a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, and numerous interior and exterior upgrades.

Where the A7 uses a supercharged 333-horsepower V6, the RS7 has a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that produces at least 560 horsepower, with the RS7 Performance trim pushing out 605 horsepower. The result is a car that, as Audi notes, “… delivers a performance that leaves even sports cars envious.”

Check out more info and photos on the following slides.

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

The RS7 Lineup

Two versions of the 2017 RS7 are available: the RS7 and RS7 Performance. Both are powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with cylinder-on-demand technology for greater fuel efficiency.

EPA estimates with the recommended premium fuel are 15 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. As expected, the RS7 Performance delivers more power: 605 horsepower vs. 560 horsepower in the RS7. The starting price for the RS7 is $110,700, with the RS7 Performance starting at $129,500.  

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Acceleration

Both versions of the RS7 are extremely quick, with the base version able to reach 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, according Audi. The RS7 Performance trims a tenth of a second from that time.

Among its engine’s features, the RS7 Performance has an overboost function, which lifts torque temporarily from an already impressive 516 pound-feet of torque to 553 pound-feet of torque. Top speed in the RS7 Performance is 190 mph. The base RS7 can travel at speeds up to 174 mph. 

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Transmission

Every RS7 is equipped with an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive with a sport differential. The driver can allow the transmission to shift on its own, or manually select gears using either the shift selector lever or the paddle shifters on the RS7 sport-leather steering wheel. 

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

RS7 Performance Trim

In addition to 45 additional horsepower, the RS7 Performance version includes carbon ceramic brakes and a coil spring sport suspension with Audi’s Dynamic Ride Control. The base RS7 uses an air suspension.

Exterior touches include a redesigned bumper with a rear diffuser insert. The tailpipes have a sporty black hue. Other RS7 Performance details include carbon fiber mirror housings, a gloss black RS single-frame grille, and unique cast aluminum 21-inch wheels.

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Drive Select

Drivers can specify the drive mode that reflects their needs at the moment. Options include a Comfort and Dynamic mode. These influence throttle response, transmission shift points, and the electromechanical power steering.

In addition, drivers can select an automatic mode that complements the driving style at the moment, or an individual mode that allows a more precise tailoring of the car’s character to the driver’s taste.

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Interior

The interior, with its four-seat configuration, is attractive and luxurious, in the Audi fashion. A sunroof and a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel are standard. It features multifunction controls, a flat bottom section, and shift paddles.

The heated front seats are nicely bolstered and offer 12-way power adjustment with four-way power lumbar control. Upholstery is done in Valcona leather with distinctive honeycomb stitching. As a final touch, the head restraints feature RS7 embossing, while the driver’s seat includes memory for its settings. Other standard features include a split-folding 60/40 rear seatback with a pass-through. 

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Exterior

Each RS7 includes LED headlamps, taillights, and rear fog lights. The power-adjustable and power-folding mirrors are heated, dim automatically at night, and have memory settings. The tailgate opens and closes at the push of a button. An adaptive rear spoiler can also be raised and lowered on demand. For colder climates, the windshield washer nozzles are heated. 

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Technology

From standard features, such as four-zone automatic climate control and keyless starting and entry, to options such as Audi pre-sense plus with its audible, visual, and physical collision warnings, the Audi RS7 bristles with high-tech features. Audi’s smartphone interface now includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional is a corner-view camera system that aids when maneuvering in tight spaces. Views from the front and rear corners are available.

The standard navigation system uses voice control, while the MMI (multi-media interface) system has handwriting-recognition technology. The RS7 is Bluetooth compatible for cell phone integration and music streaming. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps are also standard. 

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

Safety Enhancements

Audi’s night vision assistant is an option that aids nighttime driving with its infrared and thermal-imaging technology. In low-light situations, it can help a driver detect pedestrians and larger animals within 300 feet of the vehicle.

Other upgrades include adaptive cruise control with stop and go; side assist, Audi’s name for a blind spot information system; and active lane assist that can actually help a driver keep the vehicle from straying over the roadway’s lane markings when the directional signal is not activated.

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

A Mobile Concert Hall

The standard Bose surround-sound system promises an exceptional listening experience with its 630-watts of amplification and 14-speaker array. The result is outstanding power and clarity. However, for audiophiles with a yen for something different, Audi offers a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.

• See 2017 Audi A7 Photos
• Find 2017 Audi A7 For Sale
• Read the 2017 Audi A7 Full Review
• See Rankings

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

If you’re looking to get your hands on a new Audi RS7, head over to our Audi incentives page to find the best deal on your new Audi. If another vehicle in our new car rankings piques your interest, be sure to check out our best lease deals and financing deals pages. There, we’ve compiled a list of all the best incentives manufacturers are currently offering.

Once you’re ready to buy, be sure to use the U.S. News Best Price Program to find the dealership in your area offering the lowest prices. Shoppers who use the program save an average of $3,279 off their new car purchase.