Audi Sport GmbH

The Audi RS cars have technology and performance comparable with high performance sports cars such as the Porsche 911. Being based on conventional saloon (sedan) or estate (station wagon) cars, RS models also retain the everyday comfort and practicality of regular mainstream models. They are some of the most powerful vehicles ever offered by Audi. quattro GmbH create, design, develop and produce all RS models in conjunction with parent, AUDI AG.[1][2]

The "RS" initials are taken from the German: RennSport – literally translated as "racing sport". RS is Audi's highest trim level, positioned above the "S" ("Sport") specification level of Audi's regular model range. RS cars are usually produced in limited numbers over a limited time scale (historically, nearing the end of the production run of a certain model, before a new evolution or generation of the same model), and pioneer some of Audi's latest and most advanced technology and engineering prowess; therefore, "RS" cars could be described as (and are often marketed via television advertising as) "halo vehicles". Whilst RS cars generally command a much higher purchase price, compared to their 'lesser' brethren, they also retain very high residual values too.

"S line" badge in front grille

S line is a trim specification that is offered on many Audi models. Whilst the individual S line parts and components are designed and manufactured by quattro GmbH,[1][2][4] Audi "S line" cars are still manufactured in the same AUDI AG factories, on the same production lines as their related models with differing trim levels. Cars with "S line" trim should not be confused with high performance "S" and "RS" models. Audi cars with S line trim bear identical performance figures to their counterparts with SE or base trim levels, with the exception of the Audi Q7 S line with the 3.0 V6 TFSI petrol engines (213 kW (290 PS; 286 bhp) for standard, 245 kW (333 PS; 329 bhp) for S line).

quattro GmbH offers potential purchasers of new Audi cars the possibility of customising their new car beyond the scope of "conventional" options, to their own personal desires during the initial manufacturing process.[4] This facility is called Audi exclusive,[8] and extends to virtually all areas of the car. The customer may choose unique exterior paint, in any colour, as well as alloy wheels originally developed by quattro GmbH. For the interior, the upholstery can be finished in various grades and grains of leathers (including Nappa), in a choice of colours. These coloured leathers may also be applied to interior door coverings and rear parcel shelves. Headlining fabrics can be customised in colour, along with seat belt webbing. The interior can be finished with a wide selection of wooden trims, sourced from around the world, along with colour coordinated piping on the edges of tailored floor carpet mats. A range of in-car office equipment is also available.[1] quattro GmbH first offered this service at the 1995 Frankfurt International Motor Show.[2]

From 1985, quattro GmbH have developed a range of Audi lifestyle products, known as Audi Accessories.[2] These include mountain bikes and personal leather goods, such as briefcases, handbags, purses and wallets.

The Audi R8 two-seat mid-engined sports car was exclusively designed and developed and is produced by quattro GmbH.[4][6] An old factory on the Audi Neckarsulm site was redeveloped, and €28millon was invested in the new R8 production line. Around 250 employees work on this car.[1]

The longitudinally oriented 4.2 litre Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) V8 engine used in the R8, rated at 309 kW (420 PS; 414 bhp) and 430 N⋅m (317 lbf⋅ft) of torque, is shared from the B7 RS4 quattro, but modified to use a dry sump lubrication system[10] and induction system.

A subsequent V10 engined version of the R8 is also available, using a de-tuned version of their sister company's 5.2-litre FSI V10, used in the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. This variant produces 386 kW (525 PS; 518 bhp) and 530 N⋅m (391 lb⋅ft) of torque.

Furthermore, quattro GmbH unveiled a diesel engined R8 concept, the "R8 V12 TDI" (later renamed "R8 TDI Le Mans"). This was to use a 6.0-litre V12 engine, utilising Volkswagen Group's long-established Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) turbodiesel technology. This engine was rated at 368 kW (500 PS; 493 bhp) and 1,000 N⋅m (738 lbf⋅ft) of torque.

quattro GmbH has developed the most powerful diesel powered sport utility vehicle (SUV) in its class.[4][6][11] The Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro is fitted with a V12 Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) internal combustion engine. A world first, this all new diesel engine displaces 6.0 litres, generating a motive power output of 368 kW (500 PS; 493 bhp) (measured according to Directive 80/1269/EEC) at 4,000 rpm, and 1,000 N⋅m (738 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 1,750–3,000 rpm. This allows it to accelerate from 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 5.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.3 mph). quattro GmbH have developed this new engine using existing technology from Audi's Le Mans endurance racing programme – the Audi R15 TDI.[12]