Audi RS 7 Prestige, Base & Performance Trims

Audi changed the naming over time. Prestige was the core early trim, pre-update second-generation cars were often simply the sole or base RS 7, and performance can mean either the stronger first-generation variant or the sole 621-hp newer model. Check the model year and equipment, not just the badge.

Prestige is the regular early first-generation RS 7. It pairs a 560-hp V8 with adaptive air suspension, leather sport seats, navigation, Bose audio, LED lighting, and a head-up display. It emphasizes everyday comfort more than the harder-edged first-generation performance trim.

No. On pre-update second-generation cars, “base” generally identifies the sole full-strength RS 7 rather than a basic version. It has a 591-hp V8, all-wheel drive, sport air suspension, leather sport seats, modern touchscreens, and premium audio.

It depends on the era. On the first generation, performance was a stronger 605-hp alternative to the 560-hp car, with more aggressive chassis hardware. On newer models, RS 7 performance is the sole version and uses a 621-hp V8 plus revised steering, differential, and suspension tuning.

The first-generation Prestige is the 560-hp, comfort-leaning version with adaptive air suspension. The performance raises output to 605 hp and adds Dynamic Ride Control suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport exhaust, and darker carbon-focused exterior details.

The earlier second-generation base car makes 591 hp. The newer performance version makes 621 hp and 627 lb-ft, with a revised center differential, sharper transmission and drive-mode tuning, and updated chassis hardware. It is an upgrade of the same generation, not a redesign.

The newer RS 7 performance has 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft from its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. This higher-output specification replaced the regular 591-hp RS 7 during the second generation.

The sole or base second-generation RS 7 sold before the performance update has 591 horsepower. It still includes all-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic, sport air suspension, and a full luxury cabin.

The first-generation Prestige is the more comfort-oriented choice. Its adaptive air suspension and full luxury equipment suit regular road use, while the 605-hp performance version adds firmer, more specialized suspension and braking hardware.

Look for a newer RS 7 performance. It combines the 621-hp V8 with a revised center differential, sharper transmission and drive-mode tuning, rear-wheel steering, and specialized cornering hardware while keeping five seats and hatchback utility.

Pre-update second-generation base cars and newer RS 7 performance models have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto through a 10.1-inch upper touchscreen. Older first-generation cars use an earlier infotainment system; smartphone integration appeared later in that generation.

Second-generation base and performance models have heated and ventilated Valcona leather front sport seats. The earlier Prestige equipment described here includes heated leather sport seats, but not ventilation.

Second-generation RS 7 models use rear-wheel steering, including the earlier 591-hp base car and the newer 621-hp performance version. It helps the large fastback turn more readily and feel more stable at speed.

No. They were part of the defining equipment on the first-generation 605-hp performance trim, but the performance name later returned for a different 621-hp second-generation specification. Verify the brakes fitted to the individual used car rather than relying on the badge.