An Homage to the First RS2

Twenty years ago, the Audi "Avant RS2," the first in Audi's sporty "RS" range that continues to this day, made its debut. The Audi Avant RS2 was born as a new category of model, combining a dynamic character with exceptional performance and the practicality of an Avant (station wagon). Its development was famously assisted by none other thanPorsche.

The 2.2-liter five-cylinder engine, equipped with a large turbocharger, produced 232 kW (315 ps). It was not only Audi's first high-performance range model but also a joint development with Porsche, and its production at Porsche's factory in Stuttgart garnered significant attention from fans, cementing the "Audi Avant RS2" as a legendary sports model. Only 2,908 units were produced.

The Audi "RS4 Avant Nogaro," to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, can be considered an homage to that Audi Avant RS2. While based on theRS4 Avant, its prominently widened and blacked-out front grille, large-diameter wheels peeking through, and the crimson brake calipers and blister fenders that house them, immediately convey an impression of something extraordinary.

The "Nogaro" in the car's name originates from the two victories achieved by the Audi Avant RS2 in the touring car championship held at the Nogaro circuit in France in 1993. The driver at the time was Frank Biela. The fact that an Avant (station wagon), previously only recognized for leisure use, could achieve victory in a race was truly groundbreaking and historic.

Scheduled for Release Alongside Geneva Motor Show Debut

AudiThe body color of the RS4 Avant Nogaro is a "Nogaro Blue pearl effect," reminiscent of the production "RS2." In addition to the Singleframe grille, the frame of the window slot trim is finished in high-gloss black, and the roof rails are matte black. The RS sport exhaust system features a dual-oval design with gloss black tailpipe finishers.

The engine is a naturally aspirated 4.2 FSI with a displacement of 4,163cc. This is paired with a 7-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission. It produces a peak torque of 430 Nm (43.8 kgm) between 4,000-6,000 rpm and delivers a maximum output of 331 kW (450 ps) at 8,250 rpm. It achieves 0-100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds and boasts a top speed of 280 km/h. Despite this performance, CO2 emissions are kept to 249 g/km, and it achieves a fuel economy of 9.3 km/liter.

Audi's renowned "quattro" all-wheel-drive system typically distributes torque 40:60 between the front and rear, with variable distribution of up to 70 percent to the front and up to 85 percent to the rear. A sport differential, which actively distributes drive to the rear wheels, will also be available as an option.

The wheels are 20-inch, 5V-spoke designs with a gloss finish, paired with 265/30R20 tires. The brake discs are standard drilled rotors for excellent heat dissipation, with optional carbon-ceramic discs also available. The ESC (Electronic Stabilization Control) offers a sport mode and can be completely deactivated when necessary.

The interior, based on a sporty black theme, offers two different color schemes for the headrests and electrically adjustable S sport seats. In both cases, the sides of the seats are covered in black leather, with Alcantara used for the center sections and door trims. Blue stitching adorns the steering wheel and selector lever boot, while the S tronic RS selector lever knob and door sill trims feature emblems for the commemorative model.

In Europe, it will be launched as a limited edition simultaneously with its announcement at the Geneva Motor Show. The price has been announced starting from 87,300 euros.