Word is the free-revving 4.2 litre V8 in the current Audi RS4 will be replaced by a V6 turbo when the next-gen comes to life. If you’re feeling a sense of deja vu that’s okay; the first RS4 (B5 2000–01) was powered by a 2.7 litre twin turbo V6.
Cosworth did the fine tuning for Audi back then, but Quattro GmbH will take charge next time around. It’s not known if they’ll start with a 3.0 litre V6 from Audi’s shelves or create something more bespoke for the RS4. Our guess is they’ll use a 3.0 litre and perhaps once again bolt on a pair of turbochargers.
The main reason for the move away from normally aspirated power is the benefits turbocharging offer to increasing demands for more fuel efficient engines in order to meet EU emissions regulations.
[Source: Car & Driver]
3 replies on “Back to the future for next RS4 engine”
Haha I guess they had been watching and hearing Chris Harris’s opinion in one of the Drive’s video where Chris blabs on about how he loves the 1st gen RS4 Avants.
I always thought the 1st gen RS4 was one of the best car/engine packages they made. I drove one when new through Bruxner Hwy near Coffs Harbour, and my passengers were pale from fear, while I couldn’t stop smiling.
I have never really understood why they went V8, as that would be better suited to the RS6.
If you have the chance to drive a B5 RS4, you’ll come out grinning ear to ear!
Audi went with a V8 because that’s what BMW and MB did with their similar M and AMG powered cars. These 3 manufacturers seem to move in lock-step in this regard.
Makes me wonder though what engine the S4 will get. It’s currently got a supercharged V6 putting out 240kw. If the RS4 switches to a twin turbo V6 then perhaps the S4 will need to go back a turbo charged 4 cylinder engine (albeit a high output one) in order to maintain the appropriate gap between and the RS4.