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The Audi RS4 first hit sales lots in 2000 and was regarded as the fastest
vehicle in Audi's A4 category. This executive car is a five-door model that
looks more like a station wagon than a sedan, but has consistently been one of
the most powerful vehicles in Audi's lineup. It replaced the Audi RS2 Avant in
the maker's stable, and was met with praise from both consumers and critics for
both its exterior design and exceptional power. Nevertheless, Audi decided to do
away with the model in 2001 and buyers would not get another taste of the RS4
until the 2006 model year.
Originally, the RS4 featured a biturbo V6 engine that produced around 261 hp.
Also, in the beginning the RS4 was only available as a station wagon model, and
it wasn't until the second generation of the model that a straight sedan version
became available to consumers. A six-speed manual transmission and permanent 4WD
system were standard on the RS4's first generation as well. One of the most
impressive aspects of the original RS4 was the sideguard, Audi's side-curtain
airbag system. This feature was standard when most models on the market did not
even offer it as an addition.
It was not until August of 2006 that the American public got another look at the
Audi RS4, and this time the model had undergone some significant changes. Not
only was it available in a sedan model, the RS4 featured a 32-valve Fuel
Stratified Injection V8 engine that produced 414 brake horsepower. However,
buyers were a bit disappointed when they discovered that only a 6-speed manual
transmission was available. This generation also featured the permanent
all-wheel drive, but was also equipped with Dynamic Ride Control and 19-inch
alloy wheels.
The latest version of the Audi RS4 is used in several different racing
competitions. Also, a number of upcoming films plan to use the Audi RS4 in
racing scenes, as well as simple parking and driving scenes. However, these RS4s
might be altered for the films, as some of the directors are asking for the
vehicle to their specifications. One of the latest rumors is that the Audi RS4
Cabrio (already available in the UK and Germany) will soon be making its debut
on the American market, giving the BMW M a run for its money. However, Audi
spokespeople have yet to confirm the rumor. The rumor is furthered by gossip
that once the Cabrio hits American sales lots, Audi will phase out the original
wagon and sedan versions. |
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