Audi is spicing up the RS6 Avant and RS7 range with the introduction of the new Performance packages. This helps both cars achieve extraordinary performances, compared to those of supercars when it comes to accelerating from standstill. The 45 hp and 50 Nm output advantages translates into a total output of 605 hp and torque to up to 750 Nm.

With a sprint time of just 3.7 seconds, the new RS performance models retain the same best-in-class fuel economy and efficiency figures as their standard versions. Both models have an improvement of 0.2 seconds over the standard RS model, and need just 12.1 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 124 mph, giving them a 1.4-second advantage. In each case the electronically limited 155 mph top speed can be increased as an option to 174 mph, or 189 mph if the dynamic package plus is specified from the options list.

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The standard eight-speed tiptronic transmission has been revised and quattro permanent all-wheel drive delivers the power to the road. In the standard configuration, 40 per cent flows to the front axle and 60 per cent to the rear. The wheel-selective torque control intervenes as necessary. 

A sport differential acting on the rear axle is also standard, and enables active torque distribution between the inside and outside wheel.

The standard RS adaptive air suspension lowers the body of the RS 6 Avant performance and RS 7 Sportback performance by 20 millimetres.

Available to order in the UK from November, and scheduled for first deliveries next February, the RS6 Avant performance will be priced at £86,000 and the RS 7 Sportback performance at £91,600.