new Audi A4
is going to look like. Which is quite a lot like the last one.
In the glacially unhurried life-cycle of Audi, you can be sure that an RS4 version will arrive at some point, although exactly when is unknown. The current B8 RS4 wasn't launched until 2012, fully four years after the regular A4. It's unlikely we'll have to wait until 2019 for the new one though - it's more likely to arrive around 2017.
Perhaps not the best drive, but what an engine
If the new A4 is so much like the old one, won't the new RS4 be like the old one too? Not a bit of it. In fact, if the rumours are true, Audi is working on a new RS4 powerplant derived from the 4.0-litre twin-turbo in the RS6.
It's all part of the inexorable migration from natural aspiration to forced induction. So the RS4 B8 represents one of your very last chances to enjoy that flutteringly fleeting end-of-an-era object: the non-turbo V8 mega-estate.
Avant-guard
The B8 RS4 was only ever made in five-door Avant form, which is to its credit, as the estate body style has always really suited the look and feel of fast Audis, ever since the RS2 Avant of 1994 in fact.
Having just spent some time with the last-of-the-line B8 RS4, I've been reminding myself just what a seriously fabulous piece of kit this is. It's all about that engine; and let's recall, its 4.2 litres kick out 450hp (some 20hp more than pretty much the same engine in the R8), equating to a searing 107hp per litre. That means 4.7 seconds to 62mph, and while the top speed is limited to 155mph, autobahn addicts can specify a derestriction option to raise that to 174mph.
White's nice, but surely Nogaro Blue is better?
Tragically, production of the RS4 has just ended, but if you hurry you can still find brand new cars in the UK, some at very close to the list price of £56,595.
For instance, a delivery-mileage Phantom Black RS4 is being offered for £58,769, with other colours available from the same dealer including Suzuka Grey and Sepang Blue.
Most in-stock new RS4s are in the £61,495 to £64,920 price range, with various options having been added to the standard spec.
But if you really want to celebrate the end of an era in style, the most desirable RS4 of all has to be the Nogaro special edition, only 30 of which have been earmarked for the UK market. In looks, it recalls the classic RS2 Avant, with it pearlescent blue paint and blue Alcantara cabin, and it boasts loads of tasty bits as standard, like carbon engine trim, red brake callipers and blue carbon inlays. And it's got that 174mph top speed derestriction as standard.
What price a Nogaro? Well, there's one up for £67,000 from Stafford Audi. Pricey, yes, but then this is surely the ultimate Audi RS4.
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