The Audi S-Tronic gearbox is generally up there among the very good double-clutch gearboxes, and this version mated to the 4.2 FSI V8 is no exception. The expected smooth and swift gearchanges are delivered, although I am not a fan of the hyperactive tendancies in Drive Select Dynamic mode, my preference going to the Comfort mode for peaceful conditions and the manual mode in sportier conditions. The S-Tronic system also adapts the level of rev matching on downshifts to the selected driving mode, going from discrete to glorious throttle blips in the Dynamic setting, highlighting the low inertia of the V8 and the rich note of the sports exhaust system. A 1530 CHF option which seems unavoidable, I could not quite fathom why one would want an RS4 without a proper soundtrack, furthermore as it strikes an excellent compromise between quality and quantity, staying clear of the ungainly excesses experienced on some italian productions. A velvety burble at low revs morphing into the typical V8 staccato, this is a proper sound experience for that kind of car. We have no doubts that the experience near the rev limiter must be exhilarating.

This aural refinement is one of the many ingredients that turn this RS4 B8 into a very desirable piece of automotive gear. Bulging fenders (+24mm in width), specific front and rear bumper designs, gorgeous 20 inch rims with satin finish over glossy branches, Wave Design brake rotors to lower unsuspended weight by 3kg, ride height lowered by 20mm, a honeycomb grille, the (fake) oval tailpipes, the visual presence is undeniable. Same favorable impression inside with Audi’s “technical chic”, starting with the beautiful spiked leather multi-function steering wheel. The flat rim which was a highlight of the RS4 B7 and RS3 interiors has not been reconducted. Unfashionable, we guess ? As on the RS5 coupe, your only choice for the instrument dash is piano black, but door and center console inserts allow to customize the interior to a certain extent. The optional RS bucket seats are still excellent, but their ubiquity and the fact that they have not changed since the RS4 B7, save for minor changes to the upholstery, is a bit disappointing. Their sharp edges could also prove tiresome to owners who have to get in and out of their car frequently.

The late 2011 facelift of the A4 & A5  ranges brought several changes in the driver interface, four out of eight buttons governing the main MMI functions have been removed and replaced by a menu on the screen. A questionable choice in ergonomic terms, as it makes the task of selecting main menus more distracting while they were easily found by your fingers prior. The Drive Select selection interface has also been simplified to become a single button, cycling through the Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual settings on the MMI screen or auxiliary screen in the instrument cluster. Here as well, the old solution with permanent display of the setting and two keys was far better in my opinion. Our test car was equipped with the optional Sport Plus Chassis (2970 CHF) which allows to adjust damping through the Drive Select interface. A welcome equipment as it broadens the abilities of the car between a comfort setting, supple but not floaty, and much firmer Dynamic setting.