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By Audi Company
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Strengths: |
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Supercar performance with a staid appearance; stellar (and proven) AWD control; striking interior luxury; available open-air experience. |
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Changes: |
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A new two-door cabriolet joins the Audi RS4 lineup for 2008. It is equipped with the same 420-horsepower V8 engine that is found in the RS4 sedan, and constitutes one of the most potent and luxurious full-size convertibles on the market today. A reported 300 of these models are expected to be delivered to the U.S., and the cabriolet is rumored to be a one-year-only model run. |
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Value: |
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The 2008 RS4 offers supercar performance within a restrained four-door sedan design, and Audi's sure-footed quattro AWD system is standard. The new cabriolet model has few peers, offering stellar performance and handling, top-down thrills, and seating for five. |
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Overview: |
Audi took a lot of their Le Mans-winning racing technology and funneled it into the limited-production, four-door Audi RS4, which is joined in 2008 by a new two-door cabriolet model. Both body styles employ a 4.2L V8 to crank out 420 horsepower, and the engine makes the overwhelming majority of its 317 lb-ft of torque at slightly over 2,000 rpms.
The RS4 has more than a potent engine, however. A fully hydraulic dynamic ride control not only limits body lean to enhance the RS4's cornering capabilities, but also delivers a surprisingly good ride. Audi has tuned the RS4's quattro AWD system for maximum performance, and it allows a bit more wheel spin than usual for improved acceleration.
Electronic stability control is standard.
Larger tires, unique wheels and some suggestive exhaust pipes are the main exterior clues that the RS4 packs a punch. Inside, carbon fiber is used in tasteful doses as accents, the bucket seats are Recaros, and the pedals are trimmed in bright alloy. A "Sport" button allows the driver to alter the throttle mapping for even faster response. It also opens the V8's exhaust system for an even more ominous rumble.
The RS4 has the usual standard luxury touches one expects from Audi: sunroof, xenon self-leveling lights, automatic climate control, rear park assist, a six-disc CD changer, and power seats, mirrors, windows, and locks.
A trio of packages is available on the sedan.
The Premium Package (available with and without an iPod interface) adds navigation, auto-dimming mirrors, a memory feature for seats and mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, Bluetooth, power rear sunshades, Sirius satellite radio, and a Bose sound system. A Titanium Package includes black interior trim, 19-inch wheels, and black and titanium exterior enhancements. The Audi Exclusive Package consists of black and red leather seat trim, and red contrast stitching throughout the cabin. Rear side air bags are also optional.
The cabriolet can be ordered with an iPod interface and brushed aluminum beltline trim.
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