2022 Audi RS7

The Audi RS7 is Ingolstadt's performance luxury liftback performance car, which supplements the RS6 Avant as somewhat of a sedan option. Those die-hard fans that are still yearning for an RS6 sedan should be satisfied with this body style. Despite the ever-tightening emissions regulations, this generation was able to ship with a good old-fashioned twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that delivers 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque to the quattro system via the eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

The RS7 must stave off strong challengers in the form of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 and the compelling BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe. Both these German competitors are brutal fighters, but there is something about the RS7's suave nature that sets it apart from its foes from down the street.

Including the visual highlight packages that were already available last year, the 2022 Audi RS7 remains visually unchanged. The focus of the aggressive but refined appearance remains the HD Matrix LED headlights with signature daytime running lights. The 21-inch 10-V-spoke star design wheels finished in silver are the standard choice but 22-inch designs are optionally available. Being a Sportback, the definitive line on the vehicle is the sleek silhouette that gives it a coupe-esque shape. Attitude and sophistication are enhanced with the standard inclusion of an electric panoramic sunroof. An RS dual exhaust system with chrome tips, Matte Alu optic door blades and front and rear inserts for the RS-specific bumpers, and a retractable rear spoiler separate this car from the standard A7.

The exterior of the RS7 isn't too customizable but Audi does offer some optic packages to those who want to add some aggression to the look of the sleek sedan. This starts with the Black Optic package, adding a set of 22-inch 5-V-spoke design alloy wheels with a diamond-cut gloss anthracite black finish and gloss black finishes for the badges, grille, window surrounds, front and rear bumper inserts, and door mirror housings. The Carbon Optic package adds a racier carbon finish to the mirror housings, door blades, and front and rear bumper inserts.

The dimensions of the Audi RS7 include a length of 197.2 inches, height of 56.1 inches, and width of 76.8 inches without the mirrors, making the sleek four-door liftback a sizeable performance car. A wheelbase of 115.3 inches affords it a generously spaced cabin that will comfortably accommodate five passengers. An imposing stance is generated with a front and rear track of 65.7 and 65 inches respectively.

Unfortunately, a manufacturer-claimed curb weight figure of 4,938 pounds does put the RS7 on the hefty side.

For the 2022 Audi RS7, there have been some changes made to the available colors. The Nardo Gray shade remains the standard option while Florett Silver, Glacier White, Mythos Black, Tango Red, and Ultra Blue metallics are offered as $595 options. The Daytona Gray pearl shade is priced the same. Ultra Blue replaces the Navarra Blue option from last year while the Sebring Black with a crystal effect remains priced at $1,075. The brake calipers are a subtle design feature of the RS7 but you can still have them colored in red for $500. Via the Gray Ceramic Brake package, a gray shade is available for $8,500 while red will cost $9,000. If you truly want a one-of-a-kind RS7, you can spend $3,900 on the Audi Exclusive special paint option which gives you access to the Nogaro Blue, Solar Orange, Merlin Purple, Siam Beige metallic, and pearl-effect Nimbus Grey shades.

The Audi RS7 is limited to just one state of tune, but after a quick test drive, only the truly power-hungry would be asking for more. It sources power from the widely used twin-turbocharged gasoline 4.0-liter V8 supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid electric motor with combined performance figures of 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. Using the acclaimed quattro all-wheel-drive system and a responsive automatic transmission with a lock-up clutch launch control feature, it'll sprint from 0-60 mph in an impressive 3.5 seconds. As standard, it will hit a limited top speed of 155 mph but if you want this increased to a max speed of 190 mph, you'll need to add the carbon-ceramic brakes. As quick as the Audi is, the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe is even quicker; it needs just three seconds for the benchmark sprint.

The Audi RS7's twin-turbo 4.0-liter TFSI V8 is the only engine option and delivers impressive specs of 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. This is assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid electric starter generator and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Available exclusively with the all-wheel-drive system, this unit provides the luxury midsize sedan with a pleasant combination of refined and rapid engine characteristics, making it a suitable drivetrain for both in-city and highway usage.

Adding to the appeal of its daily usability is the cylinder on-demand deactivation system that shuts down half of the cylinder bank. This only takes place in higher gears at lower engine speeds but translates to quieter engine sounds and lower fuel consumption. The mild-hybrid electric motor fills in the gaps by supplying the drivetrain with power up to speeds of 14 mph and maintains power at coasting speeds of 34 to 99 mph.

Having this technology available in the RS7 is welcoming and doesn't detract from the performance side of things. Despite there being so many moving parts throughout the drivetrain, the delivery of power from the engine to the wheels is near-instantaneous. The manner in which it transitions from a silent urban cruiser into a mile-eating monster with a boisterous engine note is so contradictory that it'll have you feeling as if you've just stepped into an entirely different car.

The Audi RS7 is a weighty performance car but it disguises this well through the corners thanks to a series of advanced and intelligent mechanical and digital features. The front and rear five-link suspension setup is supported by an electrically assisted dynamic steering system that includes rear-wheel steering, RS adaptive air suspension controllable via the Audi drive select software, and a self-locking center differential.

Using these components, the car is able to translate sporty driving characteristics with a high focus on grip levels. The twitchy rear-biased persona experienced in the M8 and GT 63 is not apparent here, but the rear isn't shy to step out just a little bit, thanks to its ability to send 85% of its power to the rear axle via the sport differential.

Granted, it is not without its limits. Placing too much faith in the RS7's grip levels and being overly generous with the throttle will result in spontaneous understeer due to a large portion of the car's curb weight resting on the front axle. Opting for the Dynamic Ride Control suspension will bring the true potential out of the chassis, as the more advanced shocks mitigate body roll and reduce the amount of weight that is transferred to the sides.

An electronically retractable rear spoiler may appear as a nifty party trick used to show off to your friends, but at higher speeds, it ensures that the rear axle remains stable and planted. The standard set of brakes is more than capable of keeping things in check but if you want an unfiltered stopping experience, the optional Carbon Ceramic pack will be sure to provide blood-rushing braking.

Audi products are generally known to be cars that offer a plush ride and with the RS7, that remains consistent. Thanks to the aforementioned air suspension setup, the chassis can transform into a soft and lofty cruiser that is a joy to pilot through urban settings.

Despite having an array of fuel-saving technologies and a respectable drag coefficient figure of 0.32 cd, the Audi RS7 still has a fire-breathing twin-turbo gasoline V8 so there aren't amazing gas mileage returns. As per the EPA's miles per gallon ratings, the performance four-door coupe will deliver a 15/22/17 mpg on the city/highway/combined cycles.

A gas tank size of 19.3 gallons means that you can expect a range of about 328 miles.

As to be expected with modern Audi products, the cabin experience is a highlight thanks to contemporary fittings and displays. As standard, the door armrests and dashboard boast a leatherette upholstery covering with contrast stitching, and the new Carbon Twill inlays add to the overall modern feel. The driver and passengers are accommodated by plush Valcona perforated leather seats. In front, these seats are both heated and ventilated. The LED ambient lighting package is a highlight as it sets the tone of the cabin with a multitude of color combinations to choose from. A flat-bottom steering wheel with metal shift paddles and the bulky leather-wrapped gear lever remind you that you are in the driver's seat of a thoroughbred performance car.

The Audi RS7's interior boasts a seating capacity for five individuals. Including the sunroof, the front compartment of the interior dimensions measures in with 37 inches headroom and legroom of 41.3 inches, making it more than accommodating for taller drivers. The rear seat has 37.1 inches of headroom and legroom of 37 inches. There are 55.9 inches of shoulder room in the back seat. These interior dimensions are marginally smaller than the Sportback's wagon sibling, the Audi RS6 Avant. The reduced rear headroom has a lot to do with the RS7's sleek, sloping roofline.

The interior of the Audi RS7 is customizable but the level of variation is not what one would call diverse. For upholstery, black Valcona leather seats are standard, available at no cost with red, rock gray, or black stitching. A Cognac Brown/Granite Gray leather interior is only available if you select the $2,500 Executive Package. Even if you don't go for this option, the RS7's interior is beautifully finished. The dashboard and door armrests are in soft leatherette, the gear lever has a leather wrapping, and there are sporty touches like stainless steel pedals.

A more extreme look can be implemented if you select the $1,600 RS Design pack which adds your choice of a red or grey border to the seatbelts, RS floor mats with contrast stitching, and additional leather to the dash, armrest, and center console. If you favor comfort, the Individual Contour Seat package at $1,500 will install a plush set of seats with Valcona and Milano combination leather, although doing this will eliminate the attractive honeycomb stitching. If you add $3,000 to the cost of the Audi RS7, you can exchange the standard cloth headliner for black Dinamica fabric.

Thanks to its Sportback design, the Audi RS7 offers almost SUV-like trunk and cargo volume. Trunk space measures 24.6 cubic feet, which can easily accommodate about four midsized suitcases. Daily tasks such as grocery shopping or a day out at the golf course will be no struggle. The cargo area can be expanded via the 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench which opens the compartment up to a fair amount of additional space good enough for a large bicycle.

Thanks to the standard interior storage package, general storage space is generous, with the rear bench having access to cup holders and a compartment located in the retractable armrest. The doors also feature sizeable side bins while the front driver and passenger can use the door pockets, a glove box, and center armrest compartment to store their goods.

Being an advanced family sportscar, the Audi RS7 is not short on standard features. Convenience is improved by the keyless entry while enhanced visibility is provided by the electrically adjustable and power-folding side mirrors with auto-dimming, heating, and memory functionalities, plus a backup camera. Access to the trunk is granted by a power tailgate while fresh air can be let into the cabin through a power panoramic sunroof. The interior mirror is auto-dimming and features a digital compass. Four-zone climate control ensures that each can enjoy their own set temperature, but only the front seats are heated and ventilated as standard. The cabin experience is tied together with an advanced contour LED ambient lighting package.

The RS7 doesn't fail to remind the driver and their passengers that it is an advanced performance car with the standard inclusion of the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus digital instrument cluster and significant safety features including a top view camera system with Virtual 360 view for easy parking maneuvers. Lane departure warning and Audi's pre-sense front package further enhance the element of safety.

If that's not enough, you can also specify the comprehensive $2,250 Driver Assistance Package. This will add the brand's adaptive cruise control with lane guidance, side assist with rear cross traffic assist, intersection assist, pre-sense for the rear, and traffic sign recognition. The $2,500 Executive Package will see the inclusion of a head-up display, heating for the rear seats, and power soft-closing doors.

The infotainment system is a highlight in the Audi RS7. In total, the system covers three stunning high-definition digital displays that consist of the virtual cockpit with the addition of a 10.1-inch main information system and an 8.6-inch secondary screen that manages the climate controls. These screens are located at the center of the dash and are within easy reach of the driver and front passenger. All units are smooth and responsive to operate which makes for an overall satisfying experience. The chic design theme of both displays also complements the modern feeling of the cabin.

Thanks to the addition of haptic feedback, the touchscreens are more satisfying and easier to operate as the response gives it the characteristics of an analog dial, meaning you don't have to take your eyes off the road as much. Connected to this is an exemplary 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system and key features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. If you are looking for the best sound that the RS7 can offer, consider the $4,900 Bang and Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System consisting of 19 high-quality speakers. A Google Maps-based MMI Navigation system plus with Audi connect is included as standard together with four USB ports for charging and connectivity as well as 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities.

At the time of writing, the 2022 Audi RS7 had not been recalled for any issues. Unfortunately, the 2021 model was recalled a worrying six times. Issues affecting this model were a misaligned rear axle, a seat belt locking retractor malfunction, an engine cylinder bore surface that could develop cracks, rear axle lock nuts that could break, a passenger airbag that could potentially deploy incorrectly, and a faulty side impact crash sensor in the doors. That's quite a wide array of issues for one model.

For your peace of mind, Audi sells the RS7 with a conclusive four-year/50,000-mile basic and powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance in the US runs for four years regardless of the miles covered.

The Audi RS7 has not been subjected to comprehensive crash testing by the NHTSA, but a partial rating based on results sourced from the A7's test affords it a five-star result for side-impact collisions. The A7 was also awarded a Top Safety Pick+ badge by the IIHS for 2022 and carries exemplary safety scores for the 2022 model year - top reviews of Good in all categories tested. Based on these results from authorities in the USA, the RS7 should be just as safe.

Safety is just as crucial as speed in the new Audi RS7. Fitted as standard to ensure the well-being of the driver and passengers is a dual-airbag setup that is supported by knee, side, and rear passenger-side airbags.

Audi pre sense integrates a post-crash protocol that tightens the front safety belts, closes all the windows and sunroof, and engages braking assistance or full emergency braking depending on the situation. Lane departure warning ensures that you don't drift away from your path while a surround-view camera system with a Virtual 360-degree view, supplemented by front and rear parking sensors and cameras, alleviates tensions in tight parking spaces. Cruise control is standard.

Safety-related options and packages are available to customers who want the most secure RS7 experience. The $2,250 Driver Assistance package will add the brand's adaptive cruise control with lane guidance, traffic sign recognition, pre-sense for the rear, side assist with rear cross traffic assist, and intersection assist. Those who frequent dark country roads can select the night vision assistant with large animal and pedestrian detection for $2,500. If you're not a fan of taking your eyes off the road, Audi's head-up display is available via the $2,500 Executive package.

The Audi RS7 is an accomplished performance car that comes close to ticking all of the boxes you'll need in your daily life. Visually, it stands out from other cars on the road thanks to its distinctive lines and unique shape. Staying true to the Audi ethos, it remains an understated offering, particularly when colored with a neutral shade.

The highlight of the package is the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 which balances a Jeckle-and-Hyde personality impressively. While cruising around, it offers refined and relaxed characteristics and at the push of the accelerator pedal, it can transform into a hard-edged land missile that has enough grunt to stay on the heels of your average entry-level supercar.

Where it does fail is in dynamic feeling. Make no mistake, the RS7 is no slouch when it comes to tackling a series of corners, but next to the likes of the BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GT63, there is an athletic presence that is clearly missing. The two German rivals are able to provide drivers with characteristics that lean more on the extreme side while the RS7 retains a more conservative persona. But this is the very trait that makes the RS7 a unique proposition. Drivers looking for a fast car experience that doesn't require too much skill behind the wheel will feel more than comfortable behind the wheel of the RS7 and won't regret their purchasing decision during the slower commutes through the cities and suburbs. Impressive comfort levels and interior packaging further highlight its daily usability appeal.

The starting price of the Audi RS7 is $118,500 excluding a destination charge of $1,095. That's not cheap, but it's less expensive than the faster BMW Competition Gran Coupe that begins at $130,000.

Only one trim of the new Audi RS7 is available for 2022, but it is a substantial offering. The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 gasoline engine supported by the 48-volt mild-hybrid motor works together to offer 591 hp and 590 lb-ft. This is distributed to all four wheels using a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission; launch control helps it to achieve a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. Being a fast Audi, you won't find any other configurations besides the grippy quattro system. A top speed of 155 mph should be sufficient for most but you can increase this to 190 mph by adding the Carbon Ceramic brake package.

Creature comforts are aplenty in the cabin, with a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, front seats that feature power adjustments as well as heating and ventilation, perforated Valcona leather upholstery, and attractive ambient lighting all thrown in as standard. The infotainment system alone boasts a comprehensive experience thanks to the inclusion of Audi's MMI Navigation plus with Audi connect, a display for the Virtual 360-degree display and top view camera, and a six-month trial subscription to Audi Connect Prime, which gives the owner access to Google Earth, live traffic readings, and streaming services such as Amazon Music. Sound is delivered to the cabin via a 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen 3D Premium System.

A wide variety of optional packages are available to customize your Audi RS7 experience. For performance additions, the Ceramic Brake package, which can be had in gray for $8,500 and red for $9,000, is a crucial selection as it not only improves stopping capabilities but also increases the top speed. Dynamic Ride Control suspension at $1,250 brings out the true potential of the RS7's chassis.

The Driver Assistance package is crucial as it adds adaptive cruise control with lane guidance, side assist with rear-cross traffic alert, intersection assist, pre sense rear, and traffic sign recognition, all for $2,250. If you don't want to splurge, there's Audi side assist with rear cross-traffic alert and pre sense rear for only $500. The $2,500 Night Vision assistant with large animal and pedestrian detection package will be handy if you live in low-lit areas with critters that aren't afraid of crossing the street.

There are also a couple of visual packages for those looking to add more individuality and aggression to the appearance of the RS7. The $2,750 Black Optic package adds a set of 22-inch gloss anthracite black wheels, high-gloss black finishes for the mirror housings, badges, grille, window surrounds, and front and rear bumper inserts. $6,650 will change the door mirror housings, door blades, and front and rear bumper inserts to carbon fiber via the Carbon Optic package. For the interior, a red or gray RS Design package uplifts the interior with color borders for the seatbelts, RS-specific floor mats, and a unique leather package at $1,600. A sport exhaust with black tips goes for $1,000.

Added conveniences and luxuries include individual contour seats with memory function for the front passenger, and massaging Valcona/Milano leather at $1,500. Heated rear seats, a head-up display, soft-closing doors, and extended leather on the center console, armrests, and instrument panel costs $2,500 via the Executive package. For $4,900, the Bang and Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System incorporates 19 speakers to deliver an immersive aural experience.

There is only one RS7 model but having access to so many varying packages means that you can curate a truly unique specification. The packages have been focused to adhere to different needs and wants. Considering that this model is the flagship performance car of the A7 family, the Ceramic Brake package and Dynamic Ride Control would be crucial additions. The Driver Assistance package is also recommended as it adds a plethora of features that would make daily commuting a more comfortable and less stressful experience. The Bang and Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System is admittedly a costly investment, but the jump in sound quality from the standard set of speakers is phenomenal. We'd also add the Executive Package, no-cost 22-inch wheels, and a $595 paint option if it were our money, and be happy with a total price of $146,740 including destination.

Looking strictly at the figures, the BMW M8 Gran Coupe dominates the Audi RS7 with its twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that delivers 617 hp to the xDrive system via an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. With this, it is able to sprint from 0-60 mph in a mind-bending three seconds dead. The base model M8 Gran Coupe, with its 600 hp state-of-tune, would have been a more ideal competitor, but this is no longer available in the US. The CLAR-based chassis means that the M8 features more driver-focused dynamic characteristics without compromising daily usability. With all this extra power though, the Bavarian competitor comes with a price tag of $130,000 MSRP; by comparison, the RS7 starts at $118,500. Included in the M8 Competition as standard is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound audio system and adaptive M Suspension which is matched by the lower-priced RS7. The 15/21/17 mpg EPA estimates are a very slight improvement over the RS7, considering that it is powered by a larger engine that delivers more power. With regards to interior space, the M8 features a longer wheelbase and more headroom but the rear legroom and shoulder space are more compromised. The 11 cubic foot trunk volume, however, is substantially less than what you get in Ingolstadt's champion. The M8 may have a stronger sporting history behind its name and benefit from improved dynamics but based on value for money alone, the RS7 is too compelling to not consider. The design of Ingolstadt's chic sedan is also more distinctive than the Bavarian.

The GT63 isn't the flagship of the range but given its 577-hp output produced by the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 and all-wheel drive 4MATIC system, it is clearly an RS7 rival. Despite a lower power figure, the GT63 will sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds and reach a higher top speed of 193 mph. This more rapid pace can be credited to the fact that it has a significantly lower curb weight figure of around 4,700 lbs compared to the Audi, which verges on 5,000 lbs. At $140,600 for the 2021 model, it also costs substantially more than the Audi RS7 with a list of standard features that are not much more outstanding. Two notable differences are the fact that the AMG ships standard with dual-zone climate control and only offers lane departure warning as an optional extra. Despite these minor failings, the GT63's drivetrain and chassis combination offer a much more characterful and engaging driving experience down a straight and through a tight set of corners while retaining a composed ride for it to be used comfortably in a variety of urban and city settings. The GT63 has a bit more muscle to its engine and sharper dynamics but that base price is a massive ask over the RS7 which offers similar performance on paper and a more distinctive and futuristic design both inside and out. The RS7 also benefits from a better interior quality. Due to supply chain constraints, the GT63 is temporarily unavailable in the US at the time of writing this review, but the brand assures us that stock will be reintroduced fairly soon.