The core answer is straightforward: no. The 2007 Audi RS 4 relies on a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 and does not use a factory supercharger or turbocharger. This generation, known as the B7 RS 4, emphasizes high-revving NA performance and defined quattro all-wheel drive rather than forced induction.
Engine and induction: how the RS 4 delivers its power
Here are the key facts about the RS 4’s engine design and how it makes its power.
- Engine: 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 (FSI) delivering about 414 horsepower in the US market and up to 420 PS in other markets; torque is around 317 lb-ft (430 Nm). The engine is prized for its high-rev character and strength in the upper rpm range.
- Induction: no forced induction — the power comes from a large non-turbocharged V8. Direct injection (FSI) improves efficiency and throttle response.
- Redline and delivery: a high-revving configuration that peaks power in the upper rev range, contributing to a distinctive exhaust note and engaging driving feel.
- Transmission: six-speed manual was the standard and, in most markets, the only transmission offered; Audi did not provide a factory automatic for the RS 4 in that generation.
- Drivetrain: quattro all-wheel drive distributes power to all wheels for traction and handling balance in varied conditions.
In short, the RS 4’s performance stems from its naturally aspirated V8 and its tuning, not from any forced-induction system.
Context and clarifications: common myths and how the RS 4 fits in Audi’s lineup
Understanding the RS 4’s place within Audi’s lineup helps clear up confusion about supercharging and turbocharging in that era. The RS 4 B7 stood apart from later turbocharged Audi performance models and from other non-RS S models of the time.
- Not factory-supercharged: there was no Audi-produced factory supercharger for the RS 4 B7. Some owners explore aftermarket modifications, but these are not factory specifications and can affect warranties and reliability.
- Compared with other Audi models: during the RS 4 era, higher-performance options with forced induction came from models like the RS 6 (twin-turbo V8), while the RS 4 itself remained naturally aspirated.
- Market differences: power figures vary slightly by market (US vs Europe), but all RS 4 B7 variants remained NA with similar performance characteristics.
- Aftermarket modifications: while possible, any additional supercharging or turbo setup would be aftermarket and not representative of factory performance.
For potential buyers or enthusiasts, the key takeaway is that the 2007 RS 4’s appeal comes from its NA V8, its high-rev approach to power, its distinctive exhaust note, and its quattro handling—without factory forced induction.
Summary
The 2007 Audi RS 4 is not supercharged. It relies on a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 with direct injection, paired to a six-speed manual and quattro all-wheel drive, delivering strong performance through high-revving delivery rather than forced induction. It remains a benchmark for Audi’s naturally aspirated performance approach in the RS lineup during the mid-2000s, distinct from turbocharged siblings in the broader brand family.