“At 4000 miles I have a vibration in the steering wheel. I was told the problem is the tires "cupping" & that it is not covered by warranty. This is unacceptable for any vehicle at 4000, let alone this vehicle. There is obviously a problem with defective tires or there is a problem with the car causing the problem.”
2016 Audi RS 7: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2016 Audi RS 7 is a mid-cycle refresh with updated front and rear styling, standard LED lighting and a newer MMI infotainment setup. Audi also added the more focused 605-hp RS 7 performance trim.
About the 2016 Audi RS 7
1st-generation RS 7, facelifted version, first year of the 2016-2018 facelift run.
Audi positions the RS 7 as a high-performance four-door luxury car that blends very strong V8 power, standard quattro all-wheel drive, and everyday comfort in one sleek package. Its core appeal is giving buyers supercar-level acceleration with a richly finished cabin and year-round traction. Compared with rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, the RS 7 stands out for its understated design, high-speed stability, and broad mix of speed, comfort, and technology.
The Prestige is the core 2016 RS 7, pairing a 560-hp twin-turbo V8 and all-wheel drive with adaptive air suspension, leather sport seats, Bose audio and a head-up display. The new performance trim has 605 hp, firmer Dynamic Ride Control suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport exhaust and distinctive black and carbon trim.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new RS 7 performance trim brought a 605-hp version of the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. The Prestige retained its 560-hp version.
Styling
Audi refreshed the grille, front-end details and rear styling. LED headlights and taillights became standard.
Safety
Adaptive cruise control changed from standard equipment to an option.
Tech
The RS 7 received newer MMI infotainment hardware, along with revisions to the cabin interface and instrument-panel details.
Structural
The new performance trim added Dynamic Ride Control suspension and carbon-ceramic brakes. The Prestige continued with RS-tuned adaptive air suspension.
2016 Audi RS 7 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic | Auto, 8-Spd Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 560 hp | 605 hp |
| Torque | 516 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 24.5 cu-ft | 24.5 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37 in | 37 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Remote Start | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2016 Audi RS 7?
The biggest change is a mid-cycle refresh. The 2016 RS 7 has revised front and rear styling, standard LED exterior lighting and an updated MMI infotainment system.
Was the Audi RS 7 performance new for 2016?
Yes. The RS 7 performance joined the lineup for 2016 with 605 hp, Dynamic Ride Control suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport exhaust and unique black and carbon exterior trim.
How is the 2016 RS 7 performance different from the Prestige?
The performance trim is the more focused version. It raises output from 560 to 605 hp and adds firmer suspension hardware, carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport exhaust and distinct exterior trim, while the Prestige emphasizes everyday comfort with adaptive air suspension.
Did the 2016 Audi RS 7 get a new infotainment system?
Yes. The 2016 RS 7 received newer MMI infotainment hardware plus revisions to the cabin interface and instrument-panel details.
Is adaptive cruise control standard on the 2016 Audi RS 7?
No. Adaptive cruise control changed from standard equipment in 2015 to an option for 2016.
2016 Audi RS 7 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Audi RS 7.
4.7
2016 Audi RS 7
(16 reviews)
“The Audi RS7 is exciting to drive and makes you feel special while driving it. The design will make you feel great when you view it outside of the car.”
“Brake squeal has been a bit of a problem. Rear hatch creaking has been a bit of a problem. Media interface with phone has been a bit of a problem.”