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Audi Centre Bahrain marked the launch of three of its most anticipated 2014 models with a high performance driving experience event at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
The new models, the Audi RS 7, RS 6 Avant and R8 V10 made their debut alongside other members of the RS family, the RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Coupé.
Participants were given the opportunity to put the models through their paces with track handling exercises, a Le Mans slalom challenge and an Auto Cross circuit activity, after being given the obligatory safety briefing by the qualified instructors.
The first activity was the Le Mans slalom challenge, the goal, to weave between strategically placed cones in the new R8 V10 plus while trying to beat the clock. Exhilarating is not the word, this is an activity that requires a balance of speed and precision … a tough mix.
Next up, I took to the track and caught a glimpse of the impressive Audi line-up. All the models were there, ready to race… too bad the pace car was an A7.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m no snob, the A7 is a great car but is hardly ideal to have leading the way when you’re sitting in a 550bhp R8 equipped with the new seven-speed S tronic, accelerating from 0-100kmph in 3.5 seconds. Nonetheless, I got a chance to experience each model first-hand and it is only by doing so you can appreciate the subtle nuances of each one.
The RS 7 combines the power of a sports car with the elegance of a large, five-door coupé. At its heart is the 4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8 which produces 560bhp … needless to say when you put your foot down, it flies.
The RS 6 Avant is 560bhp estate model. Its direct-injection twin-turbo V8 delivers 560bhp and a constant 700 Nm of torque between 1,750 and 5,500 rpm and the two twin-scroll turbochargers ensure that considerable torque is generated quickly.
All Audi S models are equipped with Audi’s ‘trademark’ Quattro four-wheel drive system as standard. Unique internal combustion engines, along with larger, more powerful brakes, stiffer suspension systems, additional exterior body styling, and carbon fibre interior trims set them apart from their related siblings of their respective model range.
Rounding of the afternoon in style was the Auto Cross circuit activity in the stunning TT. Traction control off, fun on!
The goal is to weave between a circuit of cones and make your way back to the start in the fastest time possible, what could possibly be easier than that? Turns out, a lot. This task looks a doddle when done by an instructor but when you get behind the wheel, you quickly realise looks can be deceiving.
After a few other participants made orphans of some of the cones, it was my turn and I gave it a good shot, despite admittedly spinning out the back end more than once. This is a task that requires finesse and confidence in equal measure, next time, I’m taking home the gold!
Overall, the day was a great experience and a fine introduction to the new line-up of mean machines from the German automaker.
For details, call Audi Centre Bahrain on 17459933.
