Audi Releases Specs and Prices on U.S.-Bound S8 Plus and RS 7 Perfomance

2016 Audi S8 Plus (Credit: © Audi)

Earlier this year, Audi revealed two new performance models in the S8 Plus and the RS 7 Performance. At the time, it was uncertain whether Audi would offer these models in the U.S., or not, but today, Audi cleared this up by revealing all the U.S. specs and prices for these two higher-performing models.

The 2016 Audi S8 Plus will arrive with a 4.0-liter TFSI V-8 that produces 605 horsepower – an 85-horsepower boost over the old S8 – and 516 pound-feet of torque. With its overboost function, torque jumps to a mammoth 553 pound-feet.

This power routes through an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission that delivers it to all four wheels. This powertrain launches the S8 Plus to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds – 0.2 seconds quicker than the S8 — and up to a top speed of 155 mph. The Dynamic Package not only increases the top speed to 190 mph, but it also adds a sport exhaust system, high-performance brakes, and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler.

The 2016 S8 Plus will base from $114,900, which is the same price as the outgoing S8.

2016 Audi RS 7 Performance (Credit: © Audi)

The new RS 7 Performance will roll in boasting the same 4.0-liter TFSI engine as the S8 Plus, putting it at 605 horsepower – 45 horsepower more than the base RS 7 — and 516 pound-feet of torque. Like the S8
Plus, the RS 7 will feature an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and an overboost function that temporarily boosts torque to 553 pound-feet.

This updated powertrain helps the RS 7 Performance sprint to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds and top out at 190 mph. Those numbers are 0.1 seconds quicker and 16 mph faster than the RS 7, respectively.

Also separating the RS 7 Performance from the base model is its carbon-ceramic brake system, RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control, revised rear bumper and diffuser, black tailpipes, 21-inch rollers, and more.

The RS 7 Performance tacks an extra $20,100 to the base RS 7, putting its MSRP at $129,000.

Both the S8 Plus and RS 7 Performance will be available in December 2015.