[Audi RS4 Avant Overseas Test Drive] The feel of the 2.9-liter V6 turbo is addictive... Koichiro Okamoto

From 4.2-liter V8 to 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo

Prior to its introduction in Japan, the new 4th-generation RS4 Avant will be tested on German autobahns and country roads. did it.

When you stand in front of the actual car, you will notice the speedy appearance symbolized by the wide body. Red goes well with green as well. The carbon parts placed throughout the interior and exterior also complement it. In addition to the cockpit, I was also impressed by the meticulous design of the luggage space, engine room, and other places that cannot be seen from the outside.
Audi RS4 Avant
One of the major features of the new model is that the engine has been changed from the conventional naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 to a new 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo. The maximum torque is demonstrated in a wide rotation range of 1900 to 5000 rpm, and the running is perfect. The instantaneous acceleration feel that comes from anywhere seems to be addictive. The low-pitched exhaust sound can be instantly switched to a more powerful sound quality.

One of the characteristics of the new RS4 Avant is that the drive feel, which used to have a heavy impression, has become quite light, probably due to the weight reduction due to the downsizing of the powertrain. The unparalleled precision of maneuverability that does not feel a delay in response to steering operations has been further refined. I can't help but admire the high stability that allows me to cruise without feeling uneasy even at speeds over 200km/h. The aerodynamics should also work quite well.

A fast wagon that can be used every day

Audi RS4 Avant
While I was impressed with the absolute performance, I was also impressed with the high level of comfort. While the previous series of RS models had high performance, it was undeniable that comfort was somewhat impaired, but recently it seems that comfort has been emphasized, and the new RS4 Avant is exactly the same.

By selecting the drive mode, the character of the car will change more than ever before.In case of emergency, it can be a sports car that can seriously attack the circuit, or it can be a fast wagon that can be used every day with family and friends. Become.

By the way, this time, I was able to drive the "RS2", which can be said to be the origin of the RS4 Avant, for a short time. In addition to that, it was easy to handle even though it did not use as much electronic control as it does now, and it was an impression that it ensured a comfortable ride. I feel like I got a glimpse of what Audi wanted to do with the RS model.

For those who are looking forward to the arrival of the latest RS4 Avant in Japan, I would like to tell you that it is a wonderful car that exceeds expectations.
Audi RS2 (left) and Audi RS4 Avant

■ Five Star Rating
Packaging: ★★★★★
Interior/Livability: ★★★★★
Power Source: ★★★★★
Footwork: ★★ ★★★
Recommendation: ★★★★★

Koichiro Okamoto｜Motor Journalist
Born in 1968 in Toyama Prefecture. After graduating from Gakushuin University, he worked as a freelance motor journalist after producing automobile information videos and editing automobile magazines. In addition to covering a wide range of the latest circumstances of commercial vehicles, I am writing diligently in various fields with the motto from the user's point of view, making use of my experience of transferring 25 cars, mainly sports cars and luxury sedans, in my private life. . Member of the Japan Automotive Journalists Association. Japan Car of the Year selection committee.