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Audi RS 7: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Audi RS 7 is a high-performance luxury fastback sedan known for combining twin-turbo V8 speed and standard all-wheel drive with a comfortable cabin and useful rear-hatch cargo access. It is the high-performance model in Audi’s A7 family.
Since its 2014 U.S. debut, the RS 7 has paired twin-turbo V8 power and all-wheel drive with a low, wide body and a practical rear hatch. Its defining theme is breadth: it is built to feel exciting on a winding road while remaining comfortable and useful on a long trip. Performance versions have pushed the speed and handling further without turning the RS 7 into a narrowly focused two-door sports car.
Strengths
- The twin-turbo V8 delivers forceful acceleration, and the 2026 RS 7 performance is rated at 621 horsepower.
- Standard all-wheel drive gives the RS 7 useful traction in changing weather as well as during hard acceleration.
- Its rear hatch makes it unusually practical for a car with this much performance, with 24.6 cubic feet of cargo room in 2026.
- The cabin balances modern displays with the comfort needed for commuting and long-distance travel.
- Second-generation models seat five, making the RS 7 more useful for passengers than many traditional sports cars.
Who it's for
The RS 7 suits an enthusiast who wants one car for commuting, road trips, passengers, and luggage but still values serious acceleration and sharp handling. It makes more sense for someone who prioritizes performance and everyday flexibility over fuel economy.
Audi RS 7 lineup
Earlier lineups centered on the regular RS 7, which already delivered the model’s core V8, all-wheel-drive performance with a more rounded everyday focus. The RS 7 performance is the harder-edged version, with more power and more aggressive suspension, brake, exhaust, and appearance details depending on the year. An earlier regular RS 7 suits someone who wants the core experience, while a performance model is the one to seek when maximum output and sharper responses matter more. Since 2024, the RS 7 performance has replaced the regular version, and it remains the sole trim for 2026.
Audi RS 7 generations
From 2014 to 2026, the RS 7 spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation — C8/4K arrived for 2021, following the 1st Generation — C7 (2014–2018).
2nd Generation — C8/4K (2021–2026)
The redesigned RS 7 returned with a wider five-seat body, a 591-hp twin-turbo V8, rear-wheel steering, and a dual-screen dashboard. For 2024, the RS 7 performance replaced it with 621 hp and revised handling hardware.
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2026
Carries over with the 621-hp twin-turbo V8, eight-speed automatic, AWD, and the same cabin technology.
2025
Mostly unchanged; the garage-door opener buttons moved to the rearview mirror.
2024Trim changes
The RS 7 performance replaces the regular RS 7, raising output to 621 hp and adding revised AWD, transmission, drive-mode, and handling hardware.
2023
Carries over with the 591-hp twin-turbo V8, eight-speed automatic, and AWD.
2022
Adds an RS Design package and standard carbon-fiber-look cabin trim; Dynamic Ride Control suspension becomes an option.
2021New generation
The all-new RS 7 returns on the newer A7 platform with five seats, 591 hp, rear-wheel steering, and a dual-screen dashboard.
1st Generation — C7 (2014–2018)
The first U.S. RS 7 paired a four-seat liftback body with a 560-hp twin-turbo V8, AWD, and an eight-speed automatic. A 2016 refresh updated the styling and cabin interface, while the performance version raised output to 605 hp.
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2018
Adds a standard sport exhaust and revised wheel choices. This was the final U.S. model year before a two-year absence.
2017Trim changes
The RS 7 performance trim joins the lineup with 605 hp and upgraded suspension, brakes, exhaust, and exterior details. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also added.
2016Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front and rear styling, standard LED lighting, and a newer dashboard interface define this update. The 605-hp RS 7 performance also enters the lineup.
2015
The head-up display becomes standard, and a Dynamic package adds more focused handling hardware and exhaust sound.
2014New generation
The RS 7 makes its U.S. debut with a 560-hp twin-turbo V8, AWD, an eight-speed automatic, and adaptive air suspension.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Audi RS 7.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Audi RS 7 a sedan or a hatchback?
It is a five-door fastback. It has the low shape and four side doors of a sedan, but the rear glass and trunk lid lift together like a hatchback, making the cargo area easier to use.
How many people does the Audi RS 7 seat?
Second-generation RS 7 models seat five. Earlier first-generation examples used a four-seat layout, so shoppers who need a middle rear seat should focus on the redesigned generation that returned to the U.S. for 2021.
Does the Audi RS 7 come as a hybrid?
No. U.S. RS 7 models in these generations use a gas-powered 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. The newer cars make either 591 or 621 horsepower, depending on the version.
Is every Audi RS 7 all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every U.S. RS 7 covered here has Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The system is a core part of the car rather than a trim-specific extra.
What is the Audi RS 7 known for?
The RS 7 is known for combining very strong V8 acceleration with all-wheel drive, a comfortable luxury cabin, and useful rear-hatch access. It is broader in purpose than a two-door sports car.
How do the first- and second-generation Audi RS 7 differ?
The first generation sold in the U.S. from 2014 through 2018 and offered 560- or 605-hp versions. The second generation arrived for 2021 with five seats, newer displays, rear-wheel steering, and initially 591 hp; later performance models make 621 hp.
Is the Audi RS 7 practical enough for daily use?
Yes, if its high fuel use and performance focus suit you. Newer models seat five, have a large rear hatch, and provide 24.6 cubic feet of cargo room, while retaining heated and ventilated front seats and an upscale cabin.
Audi RS 7 Reviews
What owners are saying about the Audi RS 7.
4.6
Audi RS 7
(89 reviews)
“This vehicle is great if all the parts are performing correctly that’s my belief”
“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.”
“If you're looking for a unique timeless style with 4 doors and stunning performance this is your car”
“Great, powerful, vehicle. I really gives the driver that uncontrollable smile that is usually reserved for an AMG experience.”
“The car has plenty of available performance, so if that's what you're looking for this car can deliver it”