Does the Audi RS7 come with a manual transmission?
3 Answers
Audi RS7 does not have a pure manual transmission; it is equipped with a Tiptronic transmission. Introduction to Tiptronic: It combines manual and automatic shifting modes. Manual mode allows drivers to freely adjust gears and RPM, providing a thrilling driving experience with a strong sense of sportiness and driving pleasure. Usage of Tiptronic: It is recommended to use manual mode during high-speed driving, as it not only accelerates faster but also allows the use of engine braking during emergency braking. When braking at high speeds, while pressing the brake pedal, quickly pull the gear lever backward repeatedly to force the car into a lower gear, generating strong engine braking and speeding up deceleration.
I've driven the Audi RS7, this top-tier performance car, on the track several times. To be honest, the entire lineup only comes with automatic transmission configurations, and there has never been a manual version. The 8-speed Tiptronic transmission it's equipped with is exceptionally intelligent, shifting gears much faster than human hands can, completing upshifts and downshifts in just 0.1 seconds. Nowadays, even competitors like the Porsche Panamera Turbo have abandoned manual transmissions, especially when dealing with the sudden burst of 600 horsepower where a manual simply can't keep up. If you're truly enamored with the feel of manual operation, you might want to try paddle shifters; the backfire sound during downshift rev-matching is just as thrilling. After driving for a while, you'll realize that automatic transmissions are more hassle-free in the city—just control the throttle and brake with your right foot, leaving your left hand free to adjust the audio system.
As someone who has driven an Audi performance car for three years, I can confirm that the RS7 indeed does not come with a manual transmission. I checked during my test drive at the dealership, and the salesperson mentioned that the automatic transmission is more compatible with the quattro system, preventing stalling during high torque output. Now that I'm used to it, I find it more convenient, especially during rainy days in traffic jams—no need to move my left foot between the clutch and the footrest. While manual transmissions offer a more raw driving experience, the RS7's automatic mode is intelligent enough, with crisp downshifts for highway overtaking. If you're truly after the manual driving experience, you might want to consider a Porsche 911 in the same price range—it offers both PDK and manual options, unlike the RS7, which has completely abandoned the manual route.
