The Audi RS 7 is an all-new car for 2021. It’s the ultimate evolution of the second generation of Audi’s A7 five-door liftback that debuted in 2018. In typical Audi fashion, the distinguishing features of the RS 7 are subtle, but it does reveal its performance credentials with slightly more aggressive bodywork and wheels. The last available RS 7 was in the 2018 model year, so this new version is exciting news. The RS 7, which Audi calls a “Sportback,” is available alongside the latest RS 6 Avant (Audi-speak for station wagon).

The RS 7 gets a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 rated at 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, which is 31 hp and 74 lb-ft more than the previous RS 7. The V8 mates to a 48-volt hybrid system and drives all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive (AWD) technology. The RS 7 will sprint from 0-62 miles per hour (or 0-100 kilometers per hour) in 3.5 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Without a limiter, the car should be able to hit 190.

While 21-inch wheels and an air suspension are standard equipment, 22-inch wheels and more conventional steel springs are available as well. All-wheel steering is standard, and carbon-ceramic brakes are available. RS 7s fitted with the standard air suspension can lower nearly half an inch.

Like the standard A7, the RS 7 comes with the high-quality materials and clean fit and finish that people expect from Audi. Leather is standard, but higher quality leather and ventilated seats are available options. Buyers also have a choice when it comes to the rear seats. They can be specified as a bench with room for three or as individual buckets with room for two. And behind the seats, the RS 7 has a commendable 19 cubic feet of cargo space, or 49 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The RS 7 hasn’t been crash-tested, but the 2019 Audi A7 received Top Safety Pick status from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) with the highest available Good results in nearly all tests. Extra available equipment to avoid having a crash in the first place includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a 360-degree camera.

Probably the most direct competitor to the all-new Audi RS 7 is the Porsche Panamera Turbo, which makes over 40 horsepower less than the Audi. Other similar choices include the Mercedes-AMG E63S (available in sedan or wagon form), the BMW M5, and the BMW M6.