Rearview mirror: B7 Audi RS 4 quattro 2006 to 2008

Pop open the hood and you'll be greeted by one of the nicest looking engines ever. The red cylinder heads are complimented by the snake like inlet manifold and real carbon fubre trim with the four rings and RS logos. The engine looks every bit as good it is as in the R8.

Press the starter button, fire it up and it sounds rather docile when compared to in the R8. At low speeds, the V8 is as tame and unassuming as any V8 from a large executive. Rev it pass 4000rpm though and the evil side of the engine comes alive. From 4000rpm all the way to over 8000rpm, the V8 offers one continuous wallop of surge. The engine in the car I drove still felt strong and tight despite putting in more than 80,000km on the odometer.

There's an innocent looking ‘S' button on the steering wheel's left spoke. Press it and the valves in the exhaust system opens and the throttle sharpens. Any thought of the V8 sounding tamer than in the R8 is now gone. The V8 rumble is highly intoxicating at all speeds. On a car with the optional front sports seats like this example, engaging S mode also tightens the side bolsters on the seat for better support in the corners.

Maximum power of 420bhp is developed at a stratospheric 7800rpm - this is like a VTEC in hyper mode. Audi quotes a 0-100km/h time of under 5 seconds, a time that is entirely believable when you bury the throttle from standstill.

No fancy gearboxes here - it's a good old manual. The ‘box's six forward ratios are nicely spaced out for maximum performance. The ‘box itself is effortless to operate - the lever moves between gates with a short throw and a slick action, if a little vague in feel.

With a heavy engine sitting up front, you might think that the RS4's handling isn't as good as it should be. But Audi has got this one right. The steering is accurate and direct enough for a performance model. The non-standard KW suspension offers a nice ride/handling compromise while quattro all-wheel drive ensures that all of the engine's power is converted to forward motion and stability. I was actually surprised at how pliant this car's ride was - it ran on 20s and is after all lowered.

You'll find go-faster enhancements inside - the dash is lined with carbon trim, there's a flat-bottomed three spoke steering wheel and the seats are embossed with the RS 4 logo. The optional front sports seats not only look fantastic but are also superbly comfortable and supportive at the same time. There's ample room for two at the rear while the boot offers a spacious and flat load floor.

Quality remains relatively top notch in this four-year old car; the doors close with a reassuring thunk, the electronics all work and the interior surfaces and switxhgear still feel and look good.

The RS 4 Avant is still a pretty impressive package despite its age - it can still run rings around some of its newer competitors. The upcoming RS 5 will offer a tweaked version of the RS 4's V8 with 450bhp. The new coupe will be a nice car to have but those who need four doors and more practicality, a 2006 to 2008 RS 4/RS 4 Avant could be the one to have till Audi decides to do a B8 RS 4/RS 4 Avant based on the RS 5's running gear.

Credits: Story and Photos by Raymond Lai