2017 Audi RS4 Avant rendered with familiar styling cues
Digital renders of the anticipated 2017 Audi RS4 Avant suggest an evolutionary design, as speculation grows about its powertrain and launch timing.
Digital renderings of the next-generation Audi RS4 Avant have surfaced, offering an early look at what the 2017 performance estate could bring when it arrives. The images, produced by X-Tomi Design, follow closely on the heels of the new Audi A4’s unveiling and show the RS4 Avant with styling changes that build on the base car’s conservative lines.
The artist’s vision adds the expected RS-specific elements: a more aggressive front bumper, a new grille featuring the RS4 badge, pronounced side sills and larger alloy wheels. The overall effect is familiar, with clear visual links to previous RS4 Avants, suggesting Audi will continue its tradition of subtle but purposeful design changes for its flagship estate.
No official images or technical details have been released by Audi, but the renderings highlight the incremental approach often taken with RS models. The production car is likely to differ in detail, but the basic formula of understated aggression appears set to continue.
Engine speculation and model positioning
Attention has turned to what will power the next RS4 Avant. Reports suggest Audi plans to replace the outgoing 4.2-litre naturally aspirated V8 with a smaller, turbocharged V6. The move would align the RS4 with the broader industry trend towards downsized, forced-induction engines for improved efficiency and emissions. However, Audi has not confirmed any technical specifications or power figures for the new unit.
The RS4 Avant is expected to follow the launch of the new S4, which should appear first in the A4 line-up. Audi’s approach mirrors that of its rivals, with Mercedes and BMW also offering high-performance estates in this segment. For those interested in how the competition is shaping up, recent previews of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estateand BMW 3 Series Touringshow a similar focus on evolution rather than revolution.
