What It Takes to Earn an RS Badge
Basic models are tested thoroughly, fitted with performance parts, and pushed to the limit to bring out the very best. In addition to 4,970 miles of testing, RS models get light-weight material and performance parts.
Maximum Performance
Like many other car manufacturers, Audi has a clear separation when it comes to its car lineup. The A-series is the most basic model. Variants here include the A4, A5, and so on. The S-Series is a lineup that offers more performance, slight tweaks to the body, and a sporty ride. The RS is the top-of-the-range lineup. It provides the maximum possible performance, the best driving dynamics, and powerful capabilities.
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AMG or M Equivalent
To show you how special the RS badge is, think of the AMG or M equivalent of the Mercedes and BMW respectively. Audi sends its basic trims to a special performance division that is formally referred to as Audi Sport GmbH. Here, the cars are fitted with wider bodies, carbon fiber, lightweight materials, and high-performance engines and suspensions.
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>>Join the conversation about the RS models right here in Audiworld.com.
Serious Testing
In addition to the upgrades, cars undergo serious testing to make sure that they can deliver what Audi promises. Each RS Model is tested around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. In this 12.9-mile circuit, cars undergo at least 4,970 miles of testing.
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A Nürburgring Specialist
Not just anyone is assigned the task of testing the cars. Audi employs Frank Stippler, a Nürburgring specialist and local engineer that has won the 24-hour race at Nürburgring twice. He set a lap record of 7:42.253 in 2019 using the 2020 RS Q8. Testing can take between two and three wheels as Audi checks the brakes, tires, and other components.
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>>Join the conversation about the RS models right here in Audiworld.com.
Beyond the Race Track
Testing is also done beyond the Nürburgring race track. Audi puts cars under serious hot and cold weather conditions and conducts several durability tests to see how they fare. It also drives them in stop-and-go city traffic. The RS Q8 alone did 7.4 million miles of testing. That's equivalent to driving around the entire world 30 times. The SUV endured cold weather in Finland, was taken to the Nardo high-speed test track in Italy and was put through high altitude and heat in South Africa.
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>>Join the conversation about the RS models right here in Audiworld.com.
Four Different Factories
Different RS models are built alongside basic models in four different factories. The RS 5, RS 4, and RS 3 are produced in Ingolstadt, Germany. The RS 7 and RS 6 are manufactured at Neckarsulm in Germany while the TT RS and RS Q3 are produced at Gyor in Hungary. The RS Q8 is manufactured at Bratislava in Slovakia.
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Different Upgrades for Each Model
Cars receive upgrades at specific points in the assembly process. For example, the RS 6 Avant gets special sheet metal everywhere except on its roof, tailgate, and front doors. These remain untouched from the basic A6 Avant. Most exterior changes draw inspiration from race cars.
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State of the Art Equipment
The fitment of high-performance parts is done using aluminum master jigs that are monitored by Audi's Quality Assurance department. The jigs comprise ultra-modern tools such as laser scanners that measure millions of surface points on any part. They allow all surfaces to be adjusted appropriately so that every model comes out with the best aerodynamics.
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12 RS Models
There are 12 RS models in Audi's lineup. Eight of them are available in the US. We suspect that the next car to join the lineup will be the A3. The car is expected to arrive in America soon. We, therefore, might see the RS 3 arrive in 2022. It may be sold as a sedan with other regions receiving the hatchback version.
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>>Join the conversation about the RS models right here in Audiworld.com.
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