The Audi RS7 Sportback (C8) 4.0 TFSI V8, produced from 2019 to 2025, represents the pinnacle of performance within the RS7 Sportback model range. Positioned as the flagship variant, it combines exhilarating power with the practicality of a five-door liftback design. This generation, built on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform, aimed to deliver a more refined and technologically advanced grand touring experience compared to its predecessor. The C8 RS7 distinguished itself through its aggressive styling, luxurious interior, and potent powertrain, solidifying Audi’s reputation for high-performance vehicles. It directly competes with vehicles like the Porsche Panamera, BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, and Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS7 |
| Generation | RS7 Sportback (C8) |
| Type | 4.0 TFSI V8 (600 Hp) quattro tiptronic Mild Hybrid |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| End of production | 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 12.2-12.7 l/100 km (19.3 – 18.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 277-289 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.4-11.6 l/100 km (20.6 – 20.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 261-265 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 600 Hp @ 6000-6250 rpm |
| Torque | 800 Nm @ 2050-4500 rpm (590.05 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DJP |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.1 l (12.79 US qt | 10.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2735 kg (6029.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 670 kg (1477.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 535 l (18.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1390 l (49.09 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 73 l (19.28 US gal | 16.06 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 95 kg (209.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5009 mm (197.2 in.) |
| Width | 1950 mm (76.77 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2118 mm (83.39 in.) |
| Height | 1424 mm (56.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2930 mm (115.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1668 mm (65.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 958 mm (37.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1121 mm (44.13 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 420 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 370 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 275/35 ZR21 103XL |
| Wheel rims size | 10.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RS7 (C8) 4.0 TFSI lies the DJP engine, a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine is a significant evolution of Audi’s long-standing V8 tradition, incorporating a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated engine management system to deliver 600 horsepower at 6000-6250 rpm and a substantial 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque between 2050 and 4500 rpm. The mild-hybrid system employs a 48-volt electrical system and a belt alternator-starter (BAS) to enable features like coasting with the engine switched off and a smoother start-stop function. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, specifically tuned for the RS model, provides quick and precise gear changes. The quattro all-wheel-drive system, with its electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, ensures optimal traction and power distribution.
Driving Characteristics
The RS7 Sportback 4.0 TFSI delivers a truly exhilarating driving experience. The combination of the potent V8 engine and the quick-shifting tiptronic transmission results in blistering acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.4 seconds. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip, inspiring confidence in various driving conditions. While the automatic transmission doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox, it prioritizes seamless power delivery and effortless cruising. The RS-tuned suspension, featuring adaptive dampers, strikes a balance between comfort and handling, allowing for both relaxed long-distance journeys and spirited driving on winding roads. Compared to lower-powered RS7 variants, the 4.0 TFSI offers a significantly more aggressive power curve and a more visceral driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS7 Sportback 4.0 TFSI came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included Valcona leather upholstery with honeycomb stitching, RS sport seats with integrated headrests, and carbon fiber trim accents. A flat-bottomed RS steering wheel, brushed aluminum pedals, and exclusive RS badging further distinguished the interior. Standard technology included Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included ceramic brakes, RS matrix LED headlights, and a head-up display. The overall aesthetic was focused on sporty luxury, with a clear emphasis on performance-oriented details.
Chassis & Braking
The RS7 Sportback (C8) features a sophisticated chassis designed to handle the immense power of the 4.0 TFSI engine. Independent multi-link suspension is employed at both the front and rear axles, providing excellent wheel control and ride comfort. The RS-specific suspension tuning includes stiffer springs and dampers, along with a lowered ride height. Large, ventilated disc brakes – 420mm at the front and 370mm at the rear – provide exceptional stopping power. Optional carbon ceramic brakes offer even greater fade resistance for track use. The steering system is a speed-sensitive electromechanical power steering system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi RS7 Sportback 4.0 TFSI was widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, luxurious interior, and refined driving experience. While fuel economy was not a strong point (around 12.2-12.7 l/100 km), reviewers acknowledged that this was expected for a vehicle of this caliber. Compared to the standard A7 Sportback and the lower-powered RS7 variants, the 4.0 TFSI offered a significant step up in performance and exclusivity. Its main competitors, the Porsche Panamera and Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe, offered similar levels of performance and luxury, but the RS7 distinguished itself with its unique blend of practicality and style.
Legacy
The Audi RS7 Sportback (C8) 4.0 TFSI has established itself as a highly desirable performance vehicle in the used car market. The 4.0 TFSI engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Regular servicing, including oil changes and inspections of the turbochargers and cooling system, is crucial for long-term durability. The mild-hybrid system has also demonstrated good reliability. The C8 RS7’s combination of performance, luxury, and practicality ensures its continued appeal to enthusiasts seeking a high-performance grand tourer.
