The new Audi RS4 Avant has just been launched in the UK, which means we can share with you a few initial thoughts from those who have been lucky enough to drive it. The previous B7 RS4 is one of the most highly acclaimed RS models quattro GmbH has produced. So, how does this all-new version stack up?
Autocar (Giles Newton): “If you were lucky enough to know the old RS4 at all, you’re going to wonder where all the vorsprung’s gone, at least at first. Drive it merely moderately fast and the RS4 is quite a remote car, especially if you make the mistake of paying extra for variable ratio dynamic steering… Actually the entertainment offered by the old RS4 is there, and with an added dimension, but you’ll need to look – and drive – harder to find it.”
Pistonheads (Chris Harris): “For many people the RS4’s blend of badge, all-weather performance and brilliant styling will already have sealed the deal. I agree that it’s a compelling recipe. But it isn’t perfect and in lacking that one-stop omnipotence and not having enough torque for low-pulse devastation, for me it doesn’t have the magic of the B7 version.”
Whatcar? (Tom Webster): “RS4 buyers probably won’t be looking for the sensible option, though; instead, they’ll choose it because it can be both a relatively comfortable cruiser and a high-revving sports car. The only disappointment is that it doesn’t thrill that much at normal speeds. The Mercedes C63 AMG Estate feels more special more of the time.”
Hmm. If you read the reviews in full the underlying tone is one suggesting that not much progress has been made from the old model, which ceased production almost five years ago. At first glance, then, it appears Audi may have kicked an own goal. Which is a real shame.
5 replies on “Audi RS4 Avant reviews start flowing in”
Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, VW, Lamborghini and Mercedes all have the ability to build upon what they learnt with previous models, and make their cars better. Why does Audi continue to disappoint with its RS range? I can only assume they don’t care about making drivers cars.
Jono, I assume u know that Porche, Audi, Lambo are all owned by Audi. I dont know of many VW’s that would be called “drivers Car” excluding the GTI Golf & Polo.
The first review is actually very positive. Just says it is better than the B7 if u drive it like stink. But honestly, what’s the point of having the RS if you DONT drive it like stink? Might as well just get the cheaper S4.
That was partly my point! It’s just that they all seem a bit too restrained now, and the Audi Drive Select system has never really lived up to the promises they made.
Andrew you do realise that it’s VW that owns the lot of them don’t you.
[…] week we brought you the early thoughts of the motoring press on the latest version of the Audi RS4. Now it’s the turn of Chris Harris, who has just filed […]