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Audi prices S8 Plus at $115k, RS7 Performance at $129k

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Audi is introducing two new performance sedans at the LA Auto Show later this month. Both pack the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing 605 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque (553 on overboost).

The more conventional of the two is the 2016 Audi S8 Plus, which is based on the A8 and emerges as its new performance flagship. 0-60 is quoted at 3.7 seconds, with top speed electronically limited to 155 miles per hour. For all that muscle and luxury, Audi will charge $115,825 (including $925 for destination). Compared to the Mercedes-AMG S63, the new Audi offers more power (but less torque) and quicker acceleration for a much lower price. The Jaguar XJR charges about the same but gives back less muscle and performance.

Joining it is the 2016 Audi RS7 Performance fastback. It packs that same engine and eight-speed automatic transmission with Quattro all-wheel drive. But in the Sportback, 0-60 is quoted at 3.6 seconds, and the top speed is derestricted to 190 mph. For the RS7 Performance, Audi will charge $129,925. That makes it more potent and just as quick, but significantly less expensive than the Porsche Panamera Turbo S.

Both feature other upgrades to the wheels, aero, and interior, and come with carbon-ceramic brakes to keep all that momentum in check. They'll both reach showrooms next month. But while the RS7 will still be offered in the existing 560-hp spec for $108,900, the S8 Plus has already replaced the existing model on the Audi of America website.
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Audi of America announces pricing for S8 plus and RS 7 performance
November 11, 2015 | HERNDON, Virginia

- 4.0-liter twin-turbo TFSI engine produces 605 hp, maximum 553 lb-ft of torque
- Sportier interior and exterior design elements enhance performance-oriented appearance
- Both S8 plus and RS 7 performance to go on sale December 2015

Audi today is announcing pricing for the 2016 S8 plus and RS 7 performance models. With more powerful engines and enhanced design elements, the S8 plus and RS 7 performance offer elevated performance and sportiness, further reinforcing the brand's position in the premium sport sedan segment.

S8 plus

Enhanced for maximum performance and driving enjoyment, the 2016 Audi S8 plus is the latest variant of the A8 flagship sedan to enter the Audi lineup. Featuring a 4.0 TFSI engine with an eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission, the S8 plus produces an impressive 516 lb-ft of torque and 605 hp – an increase of 85 horsepower compared to the outgoing S8. With an additional 73 lb-ft of torque available through overboost, for a total 553 lb-ft, the S8 plus is one of the highest powered sport sedans in the premium segment.

The S8 plus accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, to a top track speed of 155 mph. The available Dynamic package increases the sedan's top track speed to 190 mph. Core to the design of the S8 plus is the lightweight, aluminum body construction. Based on the lightweight ASF® construction, the sedan's body weighs less than 510 lbs.

The legendary quattro® drivetrain comes standard along with a rear sport differential which further improves driving dynamics through active torque vectoring. Adaptive sport air suspension and dynamic steering expand the performance and luxury dynamics specifically for the S8 plus.

The S8 plus exterior features the high level of craftsmanship and design detail for which the Audi brand is known. A standard rear lip spoiler is painted in the exterior body color and the mirror housings are silver, differentiating it from the A8. New 21" 5-double-arm S8 plus titanium wheels are also standard.

The optional Black optic exterior package includes carbon fiber mirror housings, a black Singleframe® grill and window surrounds, a carbon front blade and diffusor trim and darkened taillights.

The optional Dynamic package includes high performance ceramic brakes and a carbon rear lip spoiler. The package also includes a modified sport exhaust system that gives the S8 plus an even more aggressive, powerful sound, and an increased top speed limiter, which increases the sedan's top speed to 190 mph.

RS 7 performance

The all-new RS 7 performance model offers more power than ever before. The 4.0 TFSI engine now produces 605 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Adding to this power is an overboost function, allowing the driver to temporarily increase power to an impressive 553 lb-ft of torque. The RS 7 performance model sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 190 mph.

The standard eight-speed Tiptronic® transmission has been designed to provide quick, smooth shifts. The driver can choose between automatic modes or change gears manually either by tapping the selector lever or by using the shift paddles on the RS sport leather steering wheel.

The RS 7 performance is differentiated from the standard RS 7 with carbon ceramic brakes and RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) along with new, striking details including a redesigned bumper with rear diffuser insert and sport exhaust black tailpipes, carbon mirror housings and the gloss black RS Singleframe grille. New RS 7 performance exclusive 21" cast aluminum wheels come standard.

The interior of the RS 7 performance comes standard with RS sports seats, with the option for black Valcona leather and Alcantara with blue contrast stitching and carbon twill blue inlays.

Timing and Pricing Details
Both the S8 plus and RS 7 performance will go on sale December 2015.

Model year 2016 S8 plus and 2016 RS 7 performance starting manufacturer suggested retail prices.
S8 plus $114,900
RS 7 performance $129,000

Prices above exclude destination charges ($925), taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

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