Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (280 km/h)
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment is generally positive, with the RS7 praised as a fast, comfortable, and capable grand tourer that blends performance with daily usability.
6 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentHigh Cost of Maintenance and Repairs
Very expensive routine maintenance, brake jobs (cited at ~$4,000 USD), and part replacements. Owners note a significant "RS Tax" on model-specific components.
- Very frequentTurbo Oil Screen/Strainer Failure
A major, widespread issue primarily affecting the C7/C7.5 generation's 4.0T V8. Faulty screens can clog, leading to turbocharger failure and catastrophic engine damage. Audi issued a recall (TSB 2044640) with multiple screen revisions, but the problem is a significant reliability concern.
- RecurrentSuspension Comfort Degradation
Owners report the adaptive suspension in Comfort mode losing its plush, "gliding" quality over time, becoming noticeably firmer. Potential causes include worn components or calibration issues.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentDynamic Ride Control (DRC) Suspension Failure
Mentioned as a known issue that "eventually" fails on the C7/C7.5 platform. Repair is costly.
- IsolatedAir Conditioning Failure
Isolated report of complete AC failure on a brand-new vehicle with less than 50 miles.
- IsolatedCreaks/Rattles in Interior
Isolated mentions of minor creaks from door speakers or center console, detracting from the premium feel.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" version. Discussions reference various model years and trims (e.g., 2016 RS7 Performance, 2024 RS7 Performance with increased power) without a clear preference emerging from the community feedback. The C8 generation (2021+) is noted for its updated design and technology, while the C7/C7.5 generation (2013-2018) is discussed in the context of used purchases and known issues.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Porsche Panamera, BMW M5, Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door, Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing and Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio.
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Overall sentiment
Owner sentiment is generally positive, with the RS7 praised as a fast, comfortable, and capable grand tourer that blends performance with daily usability. The twin-turbo 4.0L V8 engine is frequently highlighted for its immense power and linear delivery, providing a "blazing fast" and "spectacularly fast" experience. The car is consistently described as comfortable for long-distance cruising, with a refined interior and a balance of luxury and sportiness. However, this is tempered by very frequent and serious concerns regarding high ownership costs, including expensive maintenance, costly repairs, and specific, widespread reliability issues. The consensus positions it as an exhilarating but financially demanding vehicle best suited for owners prepared for significant upkeep expenses.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a high-performance luxury sportback that prioritizes all-weather capability, daily comfort, and immense straight-line speed over pure driver engagement. Compared to the Porsche Panamera, owners note the RS7 offers superior value and performance at a similar price point, though the Panamera may offer a more special driving feel. Versus the BMW M5, the RS7 is seen as more subtle in appearance and less tail-happy due to its Quattro all-wheel-drive system, making it less suitable for drifting. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is noted in comparative reviews as offering a more engaging, driver-focused experience. The Audi is often characterized as a "luxury spaceship" or supremely capable grand tourer rather than a raw sports sedan.
Recommended configurations
Specific configuration recommendations are sparse. One owner strongly recommends the optional Bang & Olufsen (B&O) premium audio system, describing it as "phenomenal" and a must-have. Carbon Ceramic Brakes (CCBs) are mentioned by one owner as providing a "night and day difference" compared to standard steel brakes, though they are acknowledged as a costly option. All-wheel drive (Quattro) is inherent to the model. There is no consensus on trim packages or optional suspensions like Dynamic Ride Control (DRC).
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers seeking a brutally fast, comfortable, and practical daily driver with all-weather confidence. NOT recommended for owners on a tight budget or those averse to high maintenance and repair costs. Strongly advised to purchase from a reputable source with a thorough pre-purchase inspection (PPI), especially for used examples. An extended warranty is highly recommended by multiple owners to mitigate the financial risk of major repairs. For out-of-warranty vehicles, using a trusted independent specialist for maintenance is suggested over dealerships to control costs. Buyers should be prepared for "RS Tax" on parts and consumables like tires, brakes, and suspension components.
Remarks
The turbo oil screen/strainer issue is the most critical and well-documented reliability problem, particularly for the 2013-2018 (C7/C7.5) models. The recall process was reportedly complex, with reimbursement challenges for owners who had repairs done outside the dealer network. The platform's shared 4.0L TFSI V8 engine with models like the S8 and RS6 is noted for being robust when properly maintained, but the turbo screen flaw is a severe Achilles' heel. Owner discussions span multiple generations (C7, C7.5, C8), with the newer C8 generation (2021+) receiving less detailed long-term reliability feedback. The vehicle's substantial weight (just under 5,000 lbs / ~2,268 kg) is occasionally noted but not a primary criticism. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2015Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 4 | 12 | electrical system |
| 2016 | 6 | 3 | engine |
| 2015 | 2 | 2 | engine |
| 2014 | 5 | 2 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices19 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2021 · seat belts:rear/other:retractorcampaign 21V606000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
2021 · tirescampaign 22V034000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
2021 · air bagscampaign 21V159000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi RS6 Avant, RS7, 2020-2021 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, S7, 2019-2021 A6 Sedan, and A7 vehicles. The score line on the passenger air bag may not have been manufactured correctly.
2021 · electrical systemcampaign 20V749000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A6 Allroad, Q7, RS6 and RS7 vehicles. The electrical connector can detach from the door crash sensor in either of the front doors.
2021 · suspension:rear:axle:non-powered axle assemblycampaign 21V295000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Q7, Q8, Q5 Sportback, SQ5 Sportback, RS6 Avant, RS7, RS Q8, 2020-2021 Audi S6 sedan, Q5, A8, S8, A7, A6 Allroad, A5 Cabriolet, A4 sedan, A4 Allroad, SQ5, S7, A6 sedan, S5 coupe, S4 sedan, S5 Cabriolet, A5 coupe, 2019-2021 RS5 coupe, A5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, RS5 Sportback vehicles. The lock nut on the trailing arm of the rear axle may break due to stress corrosion.
2021 · enginecampaign 21V339000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi SQ7, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 AVANT, and SQ8 vehicles. Cracks may develop on the surface of the engine cylinder bore.
2021 · electrical system:instrument panel:fuel gauge:fuel level float/sensor/sending unitcampaign 22V155000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021-2022 RS6 Avant and RS7, 2020-2022 A6 Allroad, S6 Sedan, and S7, and 2019-2022 A6 Sedan and A7 vehicles. The fuel level sender may stick, causing an inaccurate fuel level reading to be displayed on the instrument cluster.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · electrical systemcampaign 22V861000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, A6 Allroad, 2021-2022 RS7, RS6 Avant, 2019-2022 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. Liquid spilled in the rear seat may penetrate and cause the gateway control module to shut down.
2021 · service brakes, hydraulic:fluidcampaign 23V601000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi S7, S6 Sedan, RS7, RS6 Avant, A6 Allroad, 2019-2021 A7, and A6 Sedan vehicles. An incorrectly labeled brake fluid cap may have been installed, which can result in the use of the wrong type of brake fluid.
2021 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 25V201000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.
2021 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 25V900000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2016 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 18V370000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Audi S6 and S7, 2012-2018 A7 and A6 Sedan, and 2014-2018 RS7 vehicles equipped with basic seats (with or without heating). Stress or wear of the body-sensing mat within the front passenger seat may cause the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS) control module to malfunction.
2016 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 18V096000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2014-2015 Audi S7 and 2016-2018 RS7 vehicles. The tire information label on these vehicles incorrectly lists the combined maximum weight as 1146 lbs/520 kg, when the correct combined maximum weight is actually 992 lbs/450 kg. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2016 · engine and engine cooling:engine:gasoline:turbo/superchargercampaign 22V178000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2013-2017 A8, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, and 2014-2017 RS7 vehicles. The turbocharger oil supply strainer can become blocked, causing wear to the bearings due to lack of lubrication.
4 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: C8
performance 4.0 TFSI V8 Mild Hybrid quattro
4.0L 8-cylinder · 630 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2022–2025