2021 Audi RS 7

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Rating8.6

Ranked #11 in 

Fullsize Sedan
Write Review
$114,000
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on November 1, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Brawny V8 motor

Limited room in the rear

The Audi RS7 is an all-new model for 2021 that replaces the first-generation model and is back after a small hiatus.

Renowned Quattro AWD tech

Distractive infotainment

Excellent cargo space

Less driver aids as standard

Arresting looks

Specs & Features

$114,000

price

591 hp

horsepower

590 lb.-ft.

torque

8-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

4.0L 8cyl AWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Germans have always excelled in unifying performance and luxury. And numerous examples like BMW M5 and every other Mercedes-AMG badge vehicle with a blend of stratospheric performance and sumptuous interior have proved the same from time to time. But if you are into a threatening gazing face, sporty interior, and practicality, the fresh 2021 Audi RS7 might allure you at first glimpse. It all starts with the handsome bod of an A7, which is Audi’s stylish fastback version of the midsize A6 sedan. Then, giving it the menacing RS treatment that adds goodies like strapping twin-scroll turbo V8, air suspension, optional carbon-ceramic brakes, and faultless design. 

Buying Advice

Audi removes any hassle of picking from different trim ladders, as there’s only one RS7 to choose from, and for the price tag, it is loaded with features. But then, there are numerous optional packages and upgrades to avail. We suggest you get Driver assistance and Carbon-ceramic brakes from the options list to enhance your driving experience.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

And voila, you have to get yourself a superb machine, and attention-stealing performance vehicle, accompanying a terrifying stance with the frantic V8 growl underneath the hood. But the 2021 RS7 isn’t the only perfect combination engineered. Nameplates like Porsche Panamera Turbo S, Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-door, and BMW M8 Gran Coupe have been in existence to try and bulldoze the Audi RS7. In this review, let’s delve deeper into how the 2021 Audi RS7 might excel in various aspects and to its rivals.

Features

The 2021 RS7 is a standalone option as Four-Ring’s high-performance vehicle. It carries a $114,000 price tag and is generously loaded with tonnes of features. Besides, buyers can choose various available optional packages to add more bells and whistles. Since this is a souped up version of one of their already well selling models there is not many trims to offer but packages are available. 

Trim

2021 Audi RS7

MSRP

$114,000

Key Features

21-inch Aluminum Alloy wheels with performance tires

 

Dual infotainment screens (10.1-inch upper, 8.6-inch lower)

 

12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Digital Driver Screen

 

Heated and Ventilated front seats with memory

 

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HomeLink integration

 

Sport-tuned differential

 

All-wheel steering

 

Sport-tuned adaptive air suspension

Besides the listed features, the RS7 can add more attractive details from optional packages that include Side Assist, Driver Assistance, RS7 Executive, and Individual Contour Seat package. In addition, more upgrades will require you to shell out some cash but will be worth every dollar. Options like Upgraded Bang & Olufsen audio system, Carbon-ceramic brakes, Black Optic and Carbon Optic styling packages, Sport exhaust, and Night vision are individually offered upgrades.

Which Trim should you buy?

Audi removes any hassle of picking from different trim ladders, as there’s only one RS7 to choose from, and for the price tag, it is loaded with features. But then, there are numerous optional packages and upgrades to avail. We suggest you get Driver assistance and Carbon-ceramic brakes from the options list to enhance your driving experience.

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

For the performance traits that the Audi RS7 showcases, it’s unwise to expect healthy fuel economy. Yet the powerful Audi machine delivers 17 mpg combined, decent enough to take you places yet flaunt the V8’s roar and punch. With a 19.3-gallon fuel tank, the 2021 RS7 makes efficient long runs, unless the driver floors the pedal to prioritize performance over economy.

Models

2021 Audi RS7 Sportback

2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S

2021 Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupe

2021 BMW M8 Gran Coupe

MPG (City)

15

15

16

15

MPG (Highway)

22

21

21

21

MPG (combined)

17

17

18

17

Fuel tank capacity (gallons)

19.3

23.7

21.1

20.1

Range (City/Hwy/Combined) (miles)

289/424/328

355/497/402

337/441/379

301/422/341

If you are looking for mind-numbing performance yet vital economy, then Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-door is the best option to pick. The other rivals are down to the Mercedes high-performance machine, yet Porsche Panamera Turbo S has one of the best range in the lot, owing to a massive fuel tank.

Interior
9.2/10

The 2021 Audi RS7 remains remarkable; the sporty interior synchronizes with an ambiance of luxury that the German automaker is renowned for. The cabin flaunts three screens that make it a hi-tech wonder. The cabin is quite practical for RS7’s nature and can seat 5-passengers.

Up in front, the RS sport seats with integrated headrests hug the drivers, thanks to impressive bolsters, contours, and also the quilted Valcona leather seating surface. There’s loads of headroom and legroom in the front, along with added convenience of power-adjustable front seats. The tasteful honeycomb stitching on the seats looks mesmerizing, and the same continues to various other surfaces. 

The dash is upright and striking, but not significantly different from the A6 and A7. There are gloss black panels, carbon-twill structure inlays, and brushed aluminum accents that together create an unforgettable interior attire. The rear seats are very practical and comfortable, and three passengers would love the space, but two would sit more comfortably. The rear seats also retain the sporty attire and stitching. In terms of roominess, a tall passenger might bump their heads into the roof, owing to the tantalizing sloping roofline. 

Models

2021 Audi RS7 Sportback

2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S

2021 Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupe

2021 BMW M8 Gran Coupe

Passenger Capacity

5

4

4

5

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.)

37.0/57.2/41.3

NA

40.8/57.8/NA

39.1/57.2/42.1

Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.)

37.1/55.9/37

NA

38.2/57.2/NA

37.1/54.6/36.6

Cargo Space (cu. ft)

24.6

17.6

NA

11

The 2021 RS7 continues to feature the very practical hatchback-style tailgate and massive boot opening. The 24.6 cu-ft cargo area can easily fit four medium-sized suitcases with space still to spare. The 60/40 split-folding seats go down to reveal a 49.1 cu-ft volume, big enough to fit a mountain bike. The likes of RS7 attract a bigger crowd of buyers, those looking for both luxury and practicality. The big boot, stylish interior, and premium materials together elevate the experience. 

Standout interior features:

  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated power-adjustable front sport seats
  • Four-zone automatic climate control
  • RS Front Sports seats with 14-way power adjustments
  • Aluminum Race anthracite inlays
  • Optional 18-way seats with massaging
  • Quilted Valcona leather seating surface
  • Heated steering wheel

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The 2021 Audi RS7 flaunts modern and hi-tech infotainment details that look stunning and reduces the cluster of buttons. The 10.1-inch touchscreen substitutes for the infotainment system with an 8.6-inch lower screen for the climate controls. The screens are slightly tilted towards the driver and feature haptic touch feedback. The screens are prone to fingerprints, yet it complies as modern and upmarket. The 12.3-inch virtual cockpit gauge cluster with a specific RS layout offers all vital information. Besides, the infotainment also includes wireless Apple Carplay, wired Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, navigation, HD Radio, Bluetooth, four USB ports, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot.

The screen graphics are sharp and the haptic touch response makes it easy to access the screens without much distraction. The audio experts would love the16-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system that comes as standard, yet an upgradable 19-speaker 3D Advanced setup can blow their minds off.

Standout infotainment features:

  • Digital instrument cluster (Audi Virtual Cockpit)
  • Dual touchscreen displays (10.1-inch top and 8.6-inch lower) with navigation
  • Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay
  • Wireless charging pad with phone signal booster
  • Bang & Olufsen audio system

Exterior
9.2/10

The 2021 Audi RS7 is an A7 midsize sedan turned into a daunting and frightening machine. The design is arresting and head-turning, where Audi sticks the same wide-mouth, irregular hexagonal grille with aggressive matrix LED headlights and LED DRLs that do a dance thing. The vent below the hoods adds a race-car resemblance to this family high-performance vehicle. 

The planted side stance flaunts the stylish alloy wheel design, and the Sportback roofline smoothly flowing and mating with the rear end. The rear end boasts an adaptive spoiler, full LED tail lights with dynamic indicators along with RS-signature oval exhaust tips that are housed along with the massive faux diffuser setup. 

Models

2021 Audi RS7 Sportback

2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S

2021 Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupe

2021 BMW M8 Gran Coupe

Curb Weight (lbs.)

4938

4691

4707

4480

Length (in.)

197.2

198.8

199.2

200.9

Width (in.)

76.8

78.2

76.9

76.5

Height (in.)

56.1

56

57

55.9

Ground Clearance (in.)

4.3

5.4

4.6

5.1

Wheelbase (in.)

115.3

116.1

116.2

119.2

The 2021 RS7 poses as a burly and hefty vehicle to the rivals, despite the lesser stretched length and low height. The aggressive and intimidating RS7 attire is striking, but so are the rivals.

Standout exterior features:

  • 21-inch wheels with summer performance tires
  • Sport-tuned adaptive air suspension
  • Matrix LED headlights
  • Hands-free liftgate
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • Illuminated aluminum front door sill inlays
  • Adaptive rear spoiler
  • RS-signature oval exhaust outlets
  • Faux diffuser setup

Safety
8.5/10

The Four-Ring emblem has been one of the best automakers globally, and safety has been a priority for them. In a similar notation, the 2021 Audi RS7 packs a wide suite of electronic safety aids to keep the occupants safe. The RS7 hasn’t been through the safety tests yet nor will it ever be. The Audi A7 was tagged with “Top Safety Pick” by IIHS, since the RS7 is based on the A7 with more standard safety features, it can rely on it as a very safe ride. 

Standout safety features:

  • Lane departure warning
  • 360-degree camera system
  • HD Matrix Design headlights with laser light and automatic high beams,
  • Surround-view camera
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Forward collision detection and preparation with automatic emergency braking
  • Rear collision preparation
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
  • Lane keep assist
  • Night vision camera with pedestrian detection
  • Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and vehicle exit warning

Competition
8.0/10

2021 Audi RS7 vs 2021 Porsche Panamera Turbo S

In case the obvious price difference isn’t enough to make the 2021 Audi RS7 a more direct pick, the more practical interior layout and excellent utility from the hatchback body style make the RS7 more family-friendly.

But if you can ditch the spaciousness, and have heavier pockets, then the Porsche Panamera Turbo S can make you drool. It is ridiculously quick, offers Porsche-level handling and feedback and a more luxurious interior. But again, the price difference is huge.

2021 Audi RS7 vs 2021 Mercedes AMG GT 63 4-door coupe

The Mercedes AMG GT 63 coupe is very closely matched to the RS7, in terms of power, acceleration, interior luxury ambiance, and hi-tech touchscreens.

But the former is more economical and the sticker price makes the RS7, again, a more direct pick in the lot. Both are natural rivals, are plusher with top-notch materials, have menacing looks, and offer nail-biting performance. But for the fact that the Mercedes AMG GT coupe is slightly more efficient, it should get more points.

2021 Audi RS7 vs 2021 BMW M8 Gran Coupe

Both Audi RS7 and BMW M8 Gran Coupe are neck-and-neck matched rivals, with brutal power and luscious interiors. When it comes to solid build quality and infotainment intuitiveness, the BMW has a fair edge.

The Audi RS7 and its bigger boot prove to be more practical, while the interior is more bent to being sporty, while BMW is more elegant and lavish.

Final Verdict

The 2021 Audi RS7 is a potent high-performance vehicle, though less practical but with a more arresting silhouette to its RS6 Avant sibling. The powermill under the hood makes the RS7 blistering quick, agile and thrilling. The interior is garnished with modern tech and sporty bits that complement the luxurious cabin ambiance. The standard safety features are limited, yet spending more on optional packages can get you a fully loaded RS7.

Trims

    Base
    $114,000 onwards
    • Auto Delay Off Headlamps
    • External Temperature Display
    • Front And Rear Stabilizer Bar
    • Height Adjustable Passenger Seat
    • Rear Ventilation Ducts w/Fan Control

Compare to similar cars

Price

$74,390- $109,890

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

8.37

Horsepower

345 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque

369 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$114,000

Gasoline

8.59

591 hp @ 6000 rpm

590 lb.-ft. @ 2050 rpm

5

Read Review

$74,400- $81,100

Gasoline

8.11

444 hp

443 lb.-ft.

5

Read Review

$31,370- $42,320

Gasoline

7.35

292 hp @ 6350 rpm

260 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm

5

Read Review

$36,125- $43,125

Gasoline

7.3

205 hp @ 6600 rpm

186 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm

5

Read Review

$86,500- $98,900

Gasoline

7.53

443 hp @ 516 rpm

369 lb.-ft. @ 1370 rpm

5

Read Review

$72,950- $79,200

Gasoline

7.75

365 hp @ 6000 rpm

376 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

5

Read Review

$76,800

Gasoline

8.01

523 hp @ 5500 rpm

553 lb.-ft. @ 1800 rpm

5

Read Review

$86,800- $157,800

Gasoline

8.04

335 hp @ 5500 rpm

331 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

5

Read Review

$161,550- $185,950

Gasoline

8.43

621 hp @ 4800 rpm

738 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm

5

Read Review

2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    3 sec--
    2021 BMW M5

    Ranked #1

    2.8 sec10.9 sec163 mph
    3.41 sec--
    3.6 sec12.3 sec130 mph
    3.65 sec12.3 sec190 mph
    4.29 sec--

    2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      2021 Audi RS 7

      Ranked #10

      15 mpg22 mpg17 mpg19.3 gal.- -
      23 mpg30 mpg26 mpg21.1 gal.485.3/633 mi.
      23 mpg32 mpg26 mpg17.2 gal.395.6/550.4 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg20.6 gal.453.2/597.4 mi.
      22 mpg29 mpg25 mpg21.1 gal.464.2/611.9 mi.
      20 mpg30 mpg24 mpg18 gal.360/540 mi.

      2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2021 Audi RS 7

        Ranked #12

        197.2 in.83.4 in.56.1 in.4.3 in.115.3 in.
        227.2 in.79.4 in.64.8 in.5.3 in.139.8 in.
        215 in.83.9 in.59 in.-132.5 in.
        208.7 in.76.6 in.58.6 in.4.8 in.123.2 in.
        207.4 in.74.9 in.58.2 in.5.3 in.126.4 in.
        206.1 in.74.8 in.57.1 in.6.6 in.123 in.

        2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          2021 Audi RS 7

          Ranked #19

          --4.1 cu.ft.
          -106.3 cu.ft.467 cu.ft.
          14.3 cu.ft.96.4 cu.ft.127.5 cu.ft.
          14 cu.ft.98.8 cu.ft.89.7 cu.ft.
          2021 Audi S6

          Ranked #4

          13.7 cu.ft.63 cu.ft.74.7 cu.ft.
          37.5 cu.ft.-71.4 cu.ft.

          2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            4.1 cu.ft.-4.1 cu.ft.-
            34 cu.ft.12.7 cu.ft.12.7 cu.ft.-
            27.1 cu.ft.11.9 cu.ft.27.1 cu.ft.-
            89.7 cu.ft.14 cu.ft.89.7 cu.ft.241 ft.
            19 cu.ft.19 cu.ft.19 cu.ft.-
            50.8 cu.ft.13.1 cu.ft.50.8 cu.ft.-

            2021 Audi RS 7 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              970 lbs.- -
              970 lbs.4773 lbs.
              -4707 lbs.
              870 lbs.4696 lbs.
              915 lbs.4663 lbs.
              2021 Audi S6

              Ranked #1

              1102 lbs.4486 lbs.

              2021 Audi RS 7 Sedan Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              12

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              3

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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