As part of a new model blitz to drive its offerings up to a total of 40 different models, Audi is augmenting its lineup with new coupes, soft-roaders and sedans. The 2011 Audi A8 was unveiled late last year, the 2011 Audi A1 is out but still not confirmed for the U.S., and now new reports detail a high-performance RS7 model based on the upcoming 2011 Audi A7.

The A7 is a four-door “sportback” that fits somewhere in between sedan, coupe and wagon and is currently in the final stages of development, with a reveal likely to take place at the 2010 Paris Auto Show this October.

The RS7 variant, set to arrive around two years after the regular A7 is launched, will reportedly feature a 580 horsepower version of the 5.2-liter V-10 engine found in the S6. Sending drive to all four wheels will be a quattro system matched to an electronic differential and seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

As for the car’s styling, Audi design director Stefan Sielaff has previously mentioned that the S and RS performance variants of the Audi lineup will have more visual differentiation over the standard models than the current range. He also explained that the cars would have more aluminum and carbon-fiber trim inside the cabin to emphasize their performance aspect to occupants.

For more details on the 2011 Audi A7, check out our spy short story by clicking here, or get a preview of the car with the Sportback concept from last year.

[Autocar]