The Audi RS7 is already a formidable machine, blending luxury grand touring comfort with supercar-slaying performance. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 delivers 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque straight from the factory, propelling the sleek four-door from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 3.5 seconds. Yet for many enthusiasts, the stock power figures are just a starting point. The aftermarket offers a range of upgrades that can transform the RS7 into an even more potent beast, and one of the most comprehensive options is the S63 Engine Performance Package, which promises to push output past 700 horsepower for around $10,000. But what exactly does this package include, and where does the money go? This breakdown examines each component, the resulting performance gains, and the real-world considerations that come with such an investment.

The S63 Engine Performance Package: What It Includes

The S63 Engine Performance Package is not a single product but a carefully curated set of hardware and software upgrades designed to unlock the full potential of the RS7’s 4.0T V8. While the exact components can vary by vendor, the core elements typically address airflow, fuel delivery, and engine control. Each piece plays a critical role in safely increasing boost pressure and optimizing combustion. Here’s a closer look at what the package comprises.

Performance ECU Tune

The engine control unit (ECU) tune is the brain of the upgrade. It recalibrates fuel maps, ignition timing, boost pressure targets, and throttle response. Most reputable packages use a custom dyno tune or a well-developed off-the-shelf (OTS) flash. An OTS tune will raise boost from the factory 1.2 bar to around 1.5–1.6 bar, while a custom tune can dial in the exact air-fuel ratio and ignition timing for maximum power and safety. The cost of $1,500 typically includes the tune file and, if flash-based, the ability to switch maps or revert to stock. Some tuners also offer a handheld programmer for convenience.

Upgraded Turbochargers

Stock RS7 turbochargers are efficient but reach their flow limit around the 650–680 horsepower mark. The S63 package usually replaces them with larger compressor wheels and/or upgraded billet wheels that can push more air at higher boost levels. These upgraded turbos are often referred to as “stage 3” units. They cost around $3,000 as a pair. The increase in cost over basic intake upgrades accounts for the precision machining, balancing, and in some cases, ceramic ball bearings for longevity. Upgraded turbos are the single biggest contributor to reaching 700+ horsepower, and they require supporting mods to work safely.

High-Flow Fuel Injectors

More air demands more fuel. The RS7’s direct injection system is already capable, but at extreme power levels the stock injectors may max out duty cycle. High-flow injectors ($800) allow the engine to deliver the extra fuel needed to maintain a safe air-fuel ratio at high boost. These injectors are often upgraded to units with larger spray patterns or higher flow rates from manufacturers like Bosch or Siemens. They are a critical safety piece, as leaning out the mixture under boost can cause catastrophic engine failure.

Enhanced Intercooler

Heat is the enemy of turbocharged performance. The stock intercoolers are effective for moderate driving, but sustained high-boost operation can cause charge air temperatures to soar, forcing the ECU to pull timing and reduce power. An enhanced intercooler ($1,200) typically uses a larger core, better fin design, and improved end tanks to increase heat dissipation. Many aftermarket options also add a second auxiliary intercooler for the water-to-air system found on some RS7 models. Lower intake temperatures allow for consistent power in hot weather and multiple hard pulls.

Performance Exhaust System

A free-flowing exhaust is essential for reducing backpressure and letting the engine breathe. The S63 package includes a cat-back or downpipe-back exhaust system ($2,500) made from mandrel-bent stainless steel with high-flow catalytic converters or catless options. This not only boosts power by 15–25 horsepower on its own but also provides a more aggressive exhaust note. Some packages include resonated or valved mufflers to control noise levels. High-end systems use TIG welding and are designed to fit without issues.

Labor Costs

Professional installation is strongly recommended for this level of upgrade. Labor costs vary by region and shop, but $1,000 is a reasonable estimate. This includes removing the intake, freeing access to the turbos, replacing injectors, installing the intercooler and exhaust, and flashing the ECU. Expect the job to take 10–15 hours. Skipping professional installation can lead to boost leaks, misaligned components, or even engine damage.

Detailed Cost Breakdown Summary

  • Performance ECU Tune: $1,500
  • Upgraded Turbochargers: $3,000
  • High-flow Fuel Injectors: $800
  • Enhanced Intercooler: $1,200
  • Performance Exhaust System: $2,500
  • Labor Costs: $1,000
  • Total: $10,000

Prices can fluctuate based on brand, vendor, and whether you opt for custom tuning vs. OTS maps. Shipping costs, taxes, and potential additional parts (like upgraded spark plugs or a blow-off valve) may add a few hundred dollars more. Always get a detailed quote from a trusted shop before committing.

Expected Performance Gains

The S63 Engine Performance Package transforms the RS7 into a genuine 700+ horsepower sedan. Typical dyno results show peak wheel horsepower around 650–680 whp, which translates to roughly 720–760 crankshaft horsepower. Torque figures climb from around 590 lb-ft to 800–850 lb-ft. The driving experience changes dramatically: the car pulls harder from any speed, boost comes on earlier and holds longer, and throttle response becomes razor-sharp.

Real-world acceleration improvements are significant. Stock RS7s run the quarter-mile in the 11.2-second range at around 124 mph. With the S63 package, times drop to the mid-10-second range at 130+ mph on street tires. With drag radials and good launches, low-10-second passes are achievable. Similarly, 60–130 mph times are reduced from roughly 7 seconds to under 5 seconds. Visit forums like Audizine for owner logs and time slips.

The upgrade also sharpens handling indirectly: the engine can now pull harder out of corners, and the exhaust note adds an emotional layer to the driving experience. However, the car’s suspension, brakes, and transmission are already well-matched to the stock power – the S63 package begins to stress these systems, as discussed in the next section.

Key Considerations Before Proceeding

While the $10,000 investment yields impressive power, owners must weigh several important factors that affect ownership beyond the dyno sheet.

Warranty Implications

Audi’s factory warranty will almost certainly be voided for any powertrain-related claims after installing this package – especially with a flash tune that is detectable even if reverted. Some tuners offer “unified” tools that claim to hide the flash counter, but Audi’s TD1 flagging system is sophisticated. If your RS7 is still under warranty, consider an aftermarket warranty that accepts modifications, or budget for potential out-of-pocket repairs. According to AudiWorld discussions, many owners accept the risk and treat the upgrade as a performance investment rather than a safety net.

Insurance Costs

Modifications that increase horsepower and top speed often result in higher insurance premiums – typically a 10–30% increase. You must disclose the modifications to your insurer; failure to do so could lead to denial of claims. Some specialty insurers like Hagerty or Grundy offer modified car policies, but they may restrict daily driving usage. Get a quote before committing to the upgrade to avoid surprises.

Maintenance and Reliability

Higher performance places more stress on the engine and drivetrain. Oil change intervals should be shortened to 3,000–5,000 miles with high-quality synthetic oil. Spark plugs should be replaced annually (or at every 15,000 miles) with cooler heat-range plugs. The transmission and differential may benefit from auxiliary coolers if you track the car. The upgraded intercooler and exhaust should be inspected for leaks periodically. Overall, reliability is good if the tune is conservative and the owner stays on top of maintenance, but the cost of ownership does increase.

Resale Value

The effect on resale value is mixed. Some buyers seek out modified cars because they save the cost of the upgrade; others avoid them due to reliability concerns. A professionally installed package with documentation may command a premium of 50–70% of the upgrade cost, particularly if the car is sold through enthusiast channels. Returning the car to stock and selling the parts separately often recovers more money. Ultimately, treat the $10,000 as a sunk cost for driving enjoyment.

Installation Process: What to Expect

Installing the S63 Engine Performance Package is a multi-day job. The shop will start by draining fluids and removing the intake manifold, charge air cooler, and downpipes. Accessing the turbochargers requires removing the front bumper, intercooler, and sometimes the exhaust manifolds. The upgraded turbos bolt into the same locations but often require modifications to oil and coolant lines. Fuel injectors are replaced with the intake off, and the intercooler upgrade involves mounting the new core or auxiliary cooler. The exhaust system is straightforward, typically using factory mounting points.

Once hardware is installed, the tune is flashed via the OBD-II port. A custom dyno tune adds another 1–2 hours. Total labor time is 10–15 hours, but wait times at busy shops can stretch to several weeks. Plan accordingly.

Alternative Performance Packages

The S63 package is not the only option for RS7 owners. Competitors like APR offer Stage 2 and Stage 3 kits that achieve similar power levels. APR’s Stage 3 kit, which includes upgraded turbos, intercooler, and tune, is priced around $9,500 before labor. Unitronic also offers a stage 3 package at a comparable cost. The S63 package often distinguishes itself by including a complete exhaust system and high-flow injectors, whereas some competitors may sell those as separate upgrades. The best choice depends on local support, tuning preferences, and warranty options. No matter which path you choose, expect total costs to land in the $9,000–$12,000 range for a full 700+ horsepower upgrade.

Long-Term Ownership Costs

Beyond the initial $10,000, owners should budget for increased fuel consumption (expect a 15–20% drop in highway mpg when driving aggressively), more frequent tire replacements due to extra torque, and an eventual clutch or torque converter upgrade if the transmission begins to slip. Some owners report needing upgraded engine mounts to control wheel hop. Planning an extra $1,000–$2,000 per year for maintenance and wear items is realistic. However, many enthusiasts find the extra engagement and thrill well worth the ongoing investment.

Conclusion: Is the $10,000 Upgrade Worth It?

For the dedicated Audi RS7 owner who already appreciates the car’s core qualities, the S63 Engine Performance Package delivers an unmistakable transformation. The car becomes faster than many exotic supercars – capable of embarrassing vehicles costing three times as much – while retaining its full four-door practicality and luxury interior. The cost breakdown shows that $10,000 buys high-quality, engineered components that work together as a system, not just a jumble of parts. The potential downsides – warranty loss, insurance increases, and higher maintenance – are real but manageable for those who understand the trade-offs.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your driving goals. If you track your RS7 or simply want the thrill of 700 horsepower on your daily commute, the S63 package is one of the most effective upgrades in the Audi world. If you value worry-free ownership and factory peace of mind, you may want to stop at a milder tune. But for those who choose to press forward, the reward is a truly special driving machine that few vehicles can match.