If you have to drive a sedan or are looking for something more practical than a two-door coupe, then the 2020 Audi RS 7 Sportback sedan may be what you’re looking for. This is Audi’s second-gen Sportback and maintains Audi’s reputation for building more than pedestrian sedans. The RS 7 a sleek five-seater that just so happens to make nearly 600 hp.

While this new “Sportback” continues as the second generation 7-Series sport sedan it looks more aggressive than the original. The first version featured less emphasis on the rear of the Sportback, and so it looked visually weak. BMWs Gran Coupe four-door raised the trunk for a more substantial and aggressive look and profile. The new Sportback has visually strengthened the rear for a more substantial presence on the road. 

RS 7 Design

It looks more aggressive than the original. The first version featured less emphasis on the rear of the Sportback, and so it looked visually weak. BMW’s 6 Series Gran Coupe raised the trunk for a more substantial and aggressive look and profile. But the new Sportback has visually strengthened the rear for a more substantial presence on the road. 

There are only a few body panels the 2020 Audi RS 7 Sedan shares with the standard A7: the front doors, hood, and roof. Wheel openings have been altered to accommodate the giant 21- and 22-inch wheels available on the Sportback. The massive wheels provide a substantial visual foundation for the body floating above. 

Mild-Hybrid Powertrain

If you’re in the market for an RS 7, you are looking at a single powertrain across the board. The 4.0-liter V8 is twin-turbocharged for 591 hp with a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. Top speed is 190 mph with Dynamic Plus.

Aiding the powertrain is a 48-volt alternator-starter that gets its charge by braking. This improves both emissions and fuel economy. But, unlike a traditional hybrid driving the Sportback you won’t feel you’re actually driving a hybrid. 

Turbo lag is said to be minor and the eight-speed transmission delivers plenty of power combined with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive power system. If you’re needing a more connected feel with the 2020 Audi RS 7 Sedan there are paddles to shift manually. There are also six driving modes to choose from. These will better connect you to the dynamics of what the RS7 has to offer. 

Handling

The air suspension allows one to adjust the Sportback’s ride, feel, and handling. Four-wheel steering gives the rather heavy and large sedan the versatility to snake around corners. The rear wheels are programmed to turn in the same direction as the front wheels up to 40 mph. Beyond 40 mph the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to aid stability. 

Steering feedback is said to be a slight bit vague powering through corners, but for the majority of casual driving one would do with the RS7 it’s more than adequate. 

Carbon ceramic brakes are optional with 17.3-inch front rotors. Big enough for you? When you’re flying at over 180 mph the security of ceramic brakes makes the travelling more secure. 

Interior

Digital instruments and dual-screen MMI Touch Response infotainment system is all new and more than impressive and is all compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The damage for all of this Audi glory? Roughly $120,000. While there is a multitude of high-end sedans in this price range, the RS7 Sportback has more versatility and ability to wear different hats.