How to Make Your Audi A7 Look Like an RS7
Want that aggressive RS7 look without paying RS money? Here’s how to make your Audi A7 look like an RS7 with real…
Want that aggressive RS7 look without paying RS money? Here’s how to make your Audi A7 look like an RS7 with real mods—diffusers, exhaust tips, bumpers, wheels, lighting & more.
Introduction: Turning Heads Without Breaking the Bank
The Audi RS7 is one of the most intimidating, beautifully engineered German super sedans on the road. Massive oval exhaust tips. Widebody rear arches. Sharp honeycomb grilles. It’s a beast—no doubt. But not everyone has $120K+ to drop on a factory RS7, and not everyone needs 600+ horsepower.
Enter the Audi A7 3.0T: sleek, fast, and already styled like a luxury weapon. But here’s the secret—with the right mods, you can turn your A7 into a full-blown RS7 lookalike. One that turns heads, gets confused for the real deal, and absolutely demolishes that tame factory appearance.
This guide will show you exactly how to make your Audi A7 look like an RS7—using a smart mix of aftermarket upgrades that are affordable, aggressive, and 100% achievable in your own driveway.
Why Go RS7 Look?
Let’s be real—stock A7s look classy, but they don’t scream aggression. Even with the S-Line package, there’s still too much chrome, too many hidden tips, and not enough road presence. The RS7, though? It’s a punch in the face—in the best way possible.
Making your A7 look like an RS7 gives you:
- A way more aggressive rear and front profile
- A rare, premium look on the road
- Massive visual flex for less than $2,000
- Modding satisfaction that doesn’t touch engine internals
- A perfect canvas for future performance upgrades
And you don’t need to fake an RS badge to do it. You’re building something better: your own RS7-style monster.
What This Guide Covers
This is not some vague “add a spoiler” blog. You’re getting a section-by-section visual breakdown of every key upgrade that transforms your A7 into an RS7 clone:
- Exhaust Tips & Rear Diffuser Setup
- RS7 Front Bumper & Grille Swap
- Wider RS7-Style Wheels & Lowered Stance
- Side Skirts & Fender Flare Mods
- Lighting Upgrades (Headlights, DRLs, Taillights)
- RS7 Badges, Mirrors, and Subtle Touches
Each section is filled with:
- Amazon & AliExpress shopping links
- Real-world install tips
- Visual impact scoring
- Fitment warnings
- What it costs and what you need to make it work
By the end, you’ll have a full roadmap to build the RS7 of your dreams—from the base of your existing A7 platform.
A Quick Word on Compatibility
This guide focuses on the Audi A7 C7/C7.5 platform (2012–2018). These years are perfect for RS7 conversions because they share:
- The same body shape and core dimensions as the RS7
- Bolt-on compatibility for many RS parts and replica kits
- Tons of aftermarket support for bumpers, tips, and valances
Even if you’re running an A7 Premium Plus or Prestige, this will work.
If you’re on a 2019+ C8 A7, some parts may differ slightly—but most concepts still apply.
The Real RS7 vs Your A7: What’s Different?
Here’s what makes a factory RS7 stand out vs a regular A7—and what you’ll be replicating in this guide.
| Feature | RS7 Style | Stock A7 |
|---|---|---|
| Front Bumper | Wide lower grille, honeycomb mesh, aggressive intakes | S-line or chrome horizontal bars |
| Exhaust Tips | Massive oval tips flush with diffuser | Dual hidden tips behind plastic |
| Rear Diffuser | Sharp vented shape with exposed tip cutouts | Smooth, basic rear valance |
| Wheels | 21” forged multi-spokes or rotors | 18–20” OEM silver wheels |
| Fenders | Slightly wider with tighter fitment | More tucked, conservative stance |
| Side Skirts | Slight flare, black trim | Slim body line with chrome |
| Badges & Accents | Gloss black, RS7 logos | Chrome trim, A7 logo only |
| Lighting | Full LED matrix + animated turn signals | Standard LEDs, static turns |
The point isn’t to become a badge fraud—it’s to bring your car’s look up to RS-level aggression with quality upgrades that fit, flow, and function without having to finance a new car.
You Don’t Need RS Power (Yet)
The RS7 makes 560–605 HP depending on the generation. And yeah, it’s a monster. But here’s the thing…
You don’t need RS7 power to have RS7 presence.
Most RS7 drivers are leasing, not modding. Meanwhile, you—the A7 builder—can install:
- A Stage 2 pulley setup
- An intake and downpipes
- A tuned ZF8 trans
- And easily push 430–500 HP reliably
That makes your A7 faster than a stock RS7 0–60 under the right conditions. So when you pair that performance with RS7 visuals? Now you’ve got something even better.
The RS7 Clone Budget Breakdown
Let’s talk numbers.
Here’s what you’re realistically looking at to make your A7 look like an RS7—without fake badges or unnecessary engine swaps.
| Upgrade | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| RS7 Rear Diffuser + Oval Tips | $250–$450 |
| RS7 Front Bumper/Grille Kit | $500–$800 |
| 21” RS7-Style Wheels | $600–$1,200 |
| Fender Work (optional) | $200–$500 |
| Lighting Upgrades | $150–$400 |
| Misc (mirrors, badging, trim) | $100–$300 |
| Total: | $1,800–$3,600 for full look |
Compare that to the $70K–$110K price tag of a used RS7, and you’re getting all the street cred for 1/20th of the cost.
RS7 Clone Warning: What NOT To Do
If you’re building an RS7-style A7, don’t ruin it with:
- RS badges on the front/rear
- Mismatched tips + diffuser
- Fake exhaust outlets that don’t line up
- Skipping the front grille swap
- Small wheels that kill the vibe
- Poor vinyl wrap or paint match
If there’s one part of the RS7 that defines its identity—it’s the back.
You’ve seen it before. Those wide, oval exhaust tips poking out from a sculpted, blacked-out diffuser. It’s low. It’s wide. It looks like it’ll spit fire at you. And honestly? The stock A7 rear just doesn’t compare.
Luckily, this is one of the easiest, cheapest, and highest-impact upgrades you can do—and it transforms your car in less than a day.
Let’s break down the full RS7 rear-end conversion, from tips and diffusers to sound and install.
🔁 Step 1: Replace Your Stock Diffuser
The factory Audi A7 diffuser is fine—but it’s too soft, smooth, and boring. It hides the exhaust. It’s rounded. There’s no aggression or separation.
You want something with:
- Sharp lower fins
- Integrated cutouts for oval or quad tips
- RS7-style width and shadowline black finish
Best Options:
🟥 1. RS7-Style Rear Diffuser (for 2012–2015 A7)
- Direct swap
- Fits OEM bumper
- Requires oval tip exhaust setup
👉 AliExpress RS7 Diffuser Kit
🟦 2. C7.5 RS7 Conversion Diffuser (for 2016–2018 facelift A7)
- Matches facelift lines
- Works with quad or oval tips
👉 Amazon Diffuser Kit – Facelift
🟨 3. Carbon Fiber RS7 Rear Diffuser
- For big budget builds
- Wet carbon, aggressive fins
👉 [Check ECS Tuning or Extreme Online Store]
🔧 Step 2: Install RS7 Oval Exhaust Tips
Once your diffuser is ready, you need to fill the new cutouts with something mean.
RS7 tips are wide ovals—about 5” across—angled slightly outward. They’re not round, and they’re not quad. They scream RS design language.
💬 Pro Fitment Tip:
Your stock mufflers are tucked too far under the bumper. You’ll need exhaust extension pipes or a local muffler shop to:
- Cut off your factory tips
- Weld on 2.5”–3” pipe extensions
- Clamp or weld your new RS7 tips in the perfect spot
🏆 Best RS7 Tip Options:
🔹 AliExpress RS7 Oval Tip Kit
- ~$80–$120
- Comes with adjustable mounting brackets
👉 Buy RS7 Style Tips
🔹 Weld-On Stainless RS7 Ovals
- Higher quality
- Better chrome or black finish
👉 Amazon RS Oval Exhaust Tips
🔹 Carbon Fiber RS7 Tips (Visual Flex Only)
- Not true full exhaust tips
- Carbon covers for look only
- Need to pair with inner tip pipe
👉 [Search “carbon oval tip shell” on AliExpress]
🎧 Step 3: Make It Sound Like an RS7
You’ve got the look—but now you need the sound.
A true RS7 makes a throaty, deep exhaust note. It snarls on acceleration and pops when you lift off. That sound comes from a tuned twin-turbo V8—but you can get 80% of the vibe using mods that work with your A7’s supercharged 3.0T.
🎯 Easy Sound Mods:
✅ Downpipes (Catted or Catless)
- Removes secondary cats
- Adds volume + rawness
👉 Best Downpipes for A7 3.0T – Full Blog Here
✅ Resonator Delete
- Removes center resonator
- Makes it louder, adds burble
👉 AliExpress Res Delete Kit
✅ Muffler Swap or Delete
- Magnaflow or Borla = loud, deep
- Full delete = racecar chaos (expect drone)
👉 Best Muffler Replacements – Amazon
✅ Cat-Back System (AWE, Corsa, Borla)
- Cleanest, loudest way to build it properly
- More expensive, but worth it
👉 AWE Tuning Cat-Back for A7 3.0T
🔊 Real RS7 Clone Sound Builds
🎧 Build 1 – A7 3.0T | CTS Downpipes + RS7 Tips + Res Delete
- Cheap, deep, aggressive
- Loud cold starts
- Pop on decel
🔗 Watch YouTube Clip
🎧 Build 2 – A7 3.0T | Custom X-Pipe + AWE Exhaust + RS Diffuser
- Clean, premium RS7 tone
- Balanced sound
- Daily-drive safe
🔗 YouTube Sound Comparison
🧰 Installation Overview
Tools You’ll Need:
- Jack and stands (or lift)
- Trim removal tool
- Torx bits for diffuser
- Exhaust hanger pliers
- Clamp kit or MIG welder
- Anti-seize paste
- Optional: black exhaust paint for stealth tips
Estimated Install Time:
- Diffuser swap: 30–60 min
- Tip install (clamp): 1 hour
- Tip install (weld): 2–3 hours with adjustments
- Sound mods: 2–4 hours depending on your shop or DIY setup
💸 Rear-End RS7 Conversion Budget Breakdown
| Part | Cost |
|---|---|
| RS7 Diffuser | $130–$300 |
| RS7 Oval Tips | $80–$200 |
| Downpipes | $160–$650 |
| Res Delete Kit | $50–$150 |
| Muffler Work | $150–$500 |
| Total: | $470–$1,800 (depending on how wild you go) |
Final Thoughts: Nail the Rear, Set the Tone
Your A7’s rear end is where the RS7 energy starts. This is the part everyone sees when you pull away, blast down an on-ramp, or start the car in the morning. And it’s insanely easy to mess up or make look cheap if you don’t line things up.
✅ Use a proper RS7-style diffuser
✅ Get oval tips with the right angle
✅ Space them properly (don’t tuck or poke)
✅ Pair with a matching sound mod
✅ Don’t forget symmetry—RS7 tips are centered perfectly
You’ve nailed the RS7 rear look—now it’s time to handle the front.
Let’s be honest: the stock Audi A7 front end is classy… but too soft. The RS7, on the other hand? It’s all muscle and menace. Wide lower intakes. Sharp creases. Deep honeycomb grille. It looks like it eats lesser sedans for breakfast.
So in this section, we’re breaking down exactly how to transform your front end with:
- An RS7-style grille swap
- RS7-inspired bumper upgrades
- Headlight and DRL enhancements
- Lower lip options for that final touch
- Full fitment tips for pre-facelift and facelift A7 models
You’ll go from luxury sleeper to aggressive predator—without blowing your budget.
🔁 RS7-Style Grille Swap – The Core of the Front-End Look
First thing everyone notices on an RS7? That massive honeycomb grille.
It’s wide. It’s blacked-out. It’s bold. And the good news is—you can bolt that exact style onto your A7 with zero bodywork required.
🎯 RS7 Grille Features:
- Gloss or matte black finish
- Honeycomb mesh (not horizontal chrome slats)
- Optional RS badge placement (you can leave it blank if you want)
- Includes radar mount spot and license plate frame delete
🛒 Best RS7-Style Grilles for A7 C7 (2012–2018):
🔷 For Pre-Facelift A7 (2012–2015):
👉 AliExpress RS7 Grille for C7 A7
👉 Amazon Gloss Black RS7 Grille – C7 A7
🔶 For Facelift A7 (C7.5 – 2016–2018):
👉 RS7 Honeycomb Grille for C7.5 – AliExpress
👉 ECS Tuning – Premium RS7 Replica Grille
🔧 Installation Tips:
- Remove front bumper (Torx bits + trim clips)
- Disconnect parking sensors and radar unit
- Transfer emblem if needed
- Use anti-rust clear coat on exposed grille clips
- Align grille perfectly before torquing down
Time: 1.5 to 3 hours
Skill Level: Intermediate
Optional Add-on: RS-style quattro lettering on the lower lip area (some grilles include it)
💣 RS7 Front Bumper Conversions – Next Level Visual Flex
The grille makes a big difference, but if you want the full effect? You’ll need a full RS7-style bumper swap.
This takes your A7 from “clean sleeper” to “yo is that an RS7?!” instantly.
💥 What the RS7 Bumper Adds:
- Wider corner intakes
- Sharper body lines
- Aggressive front valance
- Deeper side blade contours
It’s designed to look like it belongs in your rearview mirror.
🔧 Compatibility Breakdown:
| Model Year | Bumper Fitment |
|---|---|
| 2012–2015 A7 (C7) | RS7 replica bumpers bolt on with minimal modding |
| 2016–2018 A7 (C7.5 facelift) | Requires facelift-style RS7 bumpers (different grille opening, headlight cut) |
Note: Some RS7 bumper kits include pre-installed grilles, side blades, and fog grilles.
🛒 Where to Buy RS7-Style Bumpers:
✅ AliExpress Full RS7 Bumper Kit
Includes bumper skin, grille, fog trim, and sometimes parking sensor mounts.
👉 RS7 Bumper for A7 – AliExpress
✅ Amazon or eBay USA Distributors
Slightly more expensive, but faster shipping and easier returns.
👉 RS7 Front Bumper Conversion – Amazon
✅ ECS Tuning / Extreme Online Store
High-quality fit and paint-matching options (costs more).
👉 RS7 Replica Bumper Kit – ECS Tuning
🧰 Pro Install Tips:
- Paint to match with factory color code
- Pre-test fit before clear coat or wrap
- Keep OEM bumper clips—they’re fragile and hard to find aftermarket
- Use 3M tape for grille seals if gapping occurs
- Don’t overtighten undertray screws into aftermarket plastics
💡 RS7 Lighting Upgrades – Eyes That Match the Face
Now that you’ve got the RS7-style face and grille, you can’t leave the lights untouched. The RS7 uses aggressive LED matrix lights with bold DRL designs and animated turn signals.
While full OEM RS7 headlight retrofits are possible, it’s expensive. But there are some slick alternatives that make a huge difference.
🔦 Best Lighting Mods for RS7 Vibes:
1. Sequential LED Turn Signal Units (Plug & Play)
- Easy upgrade
- Flowing amber animation = instant RS touch
👉 Sequential Mirror & Headlight LEDs – Amazon
2. Smoked DRLs and Light Tints
- Darkens factory light housing
- Looks mean + stealth
👉 Headlight Tint Film – AliExpress
3. Aftermarket LED Headlights (for pre-facelift)
- Includes U-shape DRL or RS-style swoop
- Plug and play (some require coding)
👉 RS-Style LED Headlights – AliExpress
🛠️ Front Lip and Lower Splitters – Bonus Aggression
Want to go the extra 10%? Add a lower lip or splitter to your new bumper.
Benefits:
- Visually lowers the front end
- Completes the RS7 face
- Matches diffuser and side skirt styling
- Some have real aerodynamic effect at highway speeds
Recommended Lip Options:
🔸 Carbon Fiber RS7 Style Lip
🔹 ABS Plastic Matte Black Lip
Install Tips:
- Use rivets or self-tappers
- 3M tape for alignment, not load-bearing
- Check ground clearance before final mount
📸 Real-World RS7 Clone Front-End Conversions
🔥 Example 1:
- 2014 A7 C7
- RS7 grille from AliExpress
- Sequential LED mirror + headlight strips
- Full RS7 bumper conversion (painted Glacier White)
- Carbon lower lip
👉 Watch Before & After Video
🔥 Example 2:
- 2017 A7 C7.5
- ECS honeycomb grille
- OEM RS7 bumper swap (used part)
- Custom DRL tint
👉 Instagram: @A7KillerBuilds
Final Thoughts: Front-End is Where the Flex Starts
This is the part of the car that everyone sees coming—and you now have the blueprint to make it hit like an RS7 without draining your wallet.
Recap Checklist:
- ✅ RS7-style honeycomb grille (gloss black or matte)
- ✅ Aggressive bumper swap with wide lower intakes
- ✅ Updated lighting: DRLs, turn signals, and tint
- ✅ Optional carbon or gloss black lower lip for the final finish
Pair this with the rear-end conversion and you’ve got an RS7-style A7 that can rival the real thing on the street—visually and audibly.
If the front and rear ends are the face and voice of your RS7 clone, then the stance is the body language.
Wheels, ride height, and fender fitment define whether your A7 looks like an executive cruiser… or a legit RS7 predator.
The RS7 rides wider, lower, and more aggressive than the standard A7. It has massive 21” wheels, fatter tires, and just the right amount of poke under mildly flared fenders. And the beauty is—you can absolutely replicate this look on your A7 with a few smart mods.
In this section, we’ll cover:
- The best RS7-style wheels (rotor, multi-spoke, concave, etc.)
- OEM vs aftermarket sizing
- Ride height adjustments: springs vs coilovers vs air
- Fender tweaks for wider setups
- Fitment formulas that actually work on the street
- Where to buy it all
🔄 Stock A7 Fitment vs RS7 Fitment
Let’s first compare factory specs:
| Feature | A7 Stock | RS7 Stock |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 19–20″ | 20–21″ |
| Offset (ET) | ET35–45 | ET25–30 |
| Tire Width | 255 | 275–285 |
| Ride Height | Higher, comfort-tuned | Lower, aggressive stance |
| Fender Width | Narrower | Slight flare |
Your mission: push your wheel and tire setup wider, lower, and flush—without rubbing or looking goofy.
🛞 RS7-Style Wheel Options
There are three main RS7 wheel styles people love:
1. 🌀 Rotor-Style 5-Spoke (Classic RS7 Look)
- OEM RS7 came with 21×9 ET35 rotors
- Angular blades, concave center
- Looks best in gunmetal, matte, or gloss black
👉 RS7 Rotor Reps – AliExpress
👉 Amazon RS7 21” Rotor Replicas
2. 🕸️ Honeycomb Mesh / Multi-Spoke RS Style
- Inspired by BBS and OEM RS7 Performance wheels
- Looks aggressive when concave
- Great with black or silver finishes
👉 20×10.5 RS Mesh Style – eBay
3. 🔲 Concave 5/7-Spoke Track Styles
- Vossen, Ferrada, Rohana reps
- Deeper dish = more visual muscle
- Best for air or static slammed builds
👉 [Check FitmentIndustries.com or CustomOffsets.com]
🛒 Wheel Size & Fitment Cheat Sheet
Here are three proven setups for your A7 (C7/C7.5):
| Look | Specs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEM+ Flush | 20×10 ET35, 275/30/20 | Lowered on springs, no rub |
| RS7 Clone | 21×10.5 ET30, 285/30/21 | Coilovers or air, mild camber |
| Stance Lords | 20×10.5 ET25, 275/30/20 | Fender roll + camber needed |
Avoid anything higher than ET40—it’ll sit too far inside the fender.
Stick to 9.5″–10.5″ width for an RS look without major surgery.
📉 Lowering the A7 – Ride Height = Attitude
The RS7 sits 0.75” to 1” lower than a stock A7, and that subtle drop makes a huge visual difference.
Let’s break down your lowering options:
🟢 Lowering Springs
- Inexpensive
- Keeps stock struts
- Ride quality slightly firmer
- Best if you just want RS stance without full adjustability
Top Picks:
- H&R Sport Springs
- Eibach Pro-Kit
- Vogtland Lowering Springs
👉 Amazon – A7 Lowering Springs
Drop: 1”–1.25”
🔵 Coilovers
- Adjustable height + damping
- Best stance + handling control
- Perfect for dialing in RS7 height with 20–21” wheels
Top Picks:
- KW V1 or V2
- Solo-Werks
- BC Racing BR Series
Drop: Up to 2” (adjustable)
🔴 Air Suspension (Airlift / AccuAir)
- Slam it for shows, raise it for speed bumps
- Ultimate fitment flexibility
- Expensive, but unmatched looks
Perfect for: Static + aggressive builds
Not ideal for: Budget or daily-only cars
👉 Airlift 3P Kit for A7 – Bag Riders
🧤 Fender Mods & Clearance
Want RS-level wheel fitment? You may need to address your fender game.
Here’s what to expect:
✅ Fender Screw Mod
- Audi fenders have one screw that causes rubbing
- Remove it + sand edge for 5mm more clearance
👉 DIY Guide on Audizine Forums
✅ Fender Rolling
- Pushes inner fender lip outward
- Allows wider tires or lower ET
- $100–$150 at most performance shops
✅ Fender Pulling (Extreme Fitment)
- Actually stretches metal outward
- Only for aggressive show builds
- Risk of paint cracking
Only go this far if you’re pushing 10.5″ wheels at ET20 or lower.
🧮 Camber, Alignment & Tire Tips
You don’t want poke and rub—you want flush and functional.
Here’s how to fine-tune your RS7 look:
| Adjustment | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Camber | Tilt wheel inward to clear fender |
| Toe | Affects tire wear and turn-in |
| Stretched tire | Allows more fender clearance |
| 275/30/20 | Perfect RS-style size for 20s |
| 285/30/21 | Wide RS7 size for 21s |
| 265/35/20 | More sidewall, more comfort |
📸 Real-World A7 Builds With RS7 Stance
🔥 Build #1:
- 2013 A7 on H&R Springs
- 20×10.5 ET30 Rotors
- RS Diffuser + Oval Tips
- Mild camber front & rear
🔗 IG: @a7_blackout
🔥 Build #2:
- 2016 A7 on Airlift 3P
- 21×10.5 ET25 concave wheels
- Fender rolled
- RS7 bumper + grille
🔗 YouTube: “My A7 RS7 Clone Build”
💸 RS7 Stance Mod Budget Breakdown
| Mod | Cost |
|---|---|
| Wheels (set) | $600–$1,400 |
| Tires | $500–$1,000 |
| Springs | $250 |
| Coilovers | $950 |
| Air suspension | $3,000–$5,000 |
| Fender work | $100–$400 |
| Total (coilover setup) | ~$1,500–$2,800 |
Final Word: Don’t Skip the Stance
You could have the front bumper, rear diffuser, RS tips and badgeless grille—but if your car’s rolling on stock 19s with a two-finger wheel gap, the illusion breaks.
Stance completes the RS7 look.
✅ Flush wheels
✅ Slightly lowered height
✅ Proper tire sizing
✅ No monster wheel gap
✅ Fender clearance dialed in
This is where your A7 starts turning into a full-on street beast.
Section 5: RS7 Side Profile – Side Skirts, Mirrors, and Trim That Tie It All Together
So far, you’ve handled the front-end aggression, rear-end muscle, and dialed-in RS7 stance. But one of the most overlooked—and most important—parts of the RS7 transformation is the side profile.
This is what people see when they’re next to you at a red light. Or when you roll past at night under streetlights. It’s what gives your build that complete, wide-body, OEM+ visual flow.
In this section, we’re covering:
- RS7-style side skirt upgrades
- Mirror cap swaps (carbon, silver, black optic)
- Chrome delete tips
- Door blade accents and small trim swaps
- Real-world before/after examples
- Links to order everything
The side profile doesn’t scream for attention like the front or back—but when done right, it completes the RS7 illusion.
🛞 RS7 Side Skirts – Lower + Wider Visuals
The RS7 side skirt isn’t dramatically different from the A7’s, but it is:
- Slightly flared and lower to the ground
- Matches the line of the RS diffuser + front valance
- Usually finished in gloss black or carbon
- Helps visually lower the car’s profile
🔧 How to Upgrade Side Skirts on an A7
There are two ways to replicate RS7 skirts:
🟢 Option 1: Stick-On RS-Style Side Skirt Extensions
- ABS plastic or carbon-look
- Tucks under your existing side skirt
- Bolts or tapes on
- Adds 1″–1.5″ of visible width and depth
👉 AliExpress RS7 Side Skirt Extensions
👉 Amazon A7 Side Skirt Lip Kit
🔵 Option 2: Full RS7 Side Skirt Swap (OEM or Replica)
- OEM fit
- More subtle than stick-on extensions
- Usually paint-matched or black
- More expensive
👉 ECS Tuning – RS7 Style Skirts
Install Time: 1–2 hours
Tools Needed: Trim removal kit, jack stands, clips/tape
💡 Pro Tip:
Pair your skirts with front lip and rear diffuser in the same finish (gloss black, matte, or carbon). That visual consistency pulls the whole car down visually, giving you the RS7-wide look even without fender mods.
🪞 RS7 Mirror Covers – Subtle But Premium
If the grille is the face of your build, the mirrors are the eyebrows.
And the RS7 gets them right—sleek, sculpted, and never chrome.
Mirror Cap Options:
| Style | Look | Match With |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss Black | Stealth, aggressive | Black optics grille & diffuser |
| Carbon Fiber | Sporty, modern | Carbon front lip/side skirt |
| Silver RS-style | OEM+ RS7 style | Rotor wheels, silver accents |
🛒 Where to Buy Mirror Covers
👉 Carbon Mirror Caps – AliExpress
👉 Gloss Black Mirror Covers – Amazon
👉 OEM RS7 Silver Covers – ECS Tuning
Install Time: 15–30 minutes
Tip: Use plastic pry tools—no metal screwdrivers or you’ll destroy the clips.
🏁 Chrome Delete = Instant RS7 Energy
Almost all A7s come with chrome window trim, front grille trim, and badges.
But RS7s? Blacked out everything. This one change alone makes your A7 go from “lux sedan” to “murdered-out Autobahn missile.”
🔥 Chrome Delete Options:
🟥 1. Gloss Black Vinyl Wrap (DIY)
- Cheap and effective
- Use knifeless tape
- Perfect for chrome window surrounds
👉 3M Gloss Black Chrome Delete Kit – Amazon
🟨 2. Painted Trim Swap
- Remove chrome pieces
- Paint or powder coat them
- Higher cost, but no peeling or bubbles
🟩 3. Buy Black Optic Parts
- Audi sold a “black optic” package
- You can find OEM black trim pieces (mirrors, moldings, etc.)
👉 [Check eBay or local Audi parts classifieds]
🚪 Optional: RS7 Door Trim Accents
The RS7 also has slightly different door blade accents and sill plates.
While not critical, these little touches push your build over the top.
✅ Add-on Details to Consider:
| Part | Effect |
|---|---|
| RS7 Aluminum or Carbon Door Sills | Clean flex when doors open |
| Lower door trim vinyl wrap (black or carbon) | Adds visual depth |
| RS7 Badge Projection Puddle Lights | Gimmicky but cool |
| Black Door Handles or Wraps | Matches blacked-out theme |
👉 RS7 Sill Plates – eBay
👉 LED Door Lights – Amazon
📸 Real RS7 Side Profile Replicas
🔥 Build 1:
- 2015 A7
- RS7 side skirt extensions (carbon)
- Gloss black mirror caps
- Chrome delete
- 21” rotors, 1.2” drop
🔗 IG: @c7_rslooka7
🔥 Build 2:
- 2017 A7 C7.5
- OEM RS7 side skirts
- Satin black vinyl trim delete
- Carbon mirrors + door handles
🔗 YouTube: “A7 to RS7 Visual Mods Only”
💸 Budget Breakdown – Side Profile Mods
| Mod | Cost |
|---|---|
| Side Skirt Extensions | $100–$250 |
| Full Skirt Replacement | $300–$600 |
| Mirror Covers | $60–$250 |
| Chrome Delete Vinyl | $30–$80 |
| Door Sill Plates | $80–$200 |
| Puddle Lights | $20–$40 |
| Total (Full Package): | $300–$1,000 |
Final Word: The Side View Sells It
Front and rear mods grab attention—but your side profile completes the RS7 conversion.
When someone sees your car from the angle, your wheels, skirt line, mirrors, trim, and stance all work together to scream RS7—without even needing a badge.
Here’s your quick side-profile checklist:
✅ RS7-style skirt extensions or full side skirts
✅ Mirror caps that match your grille/diffuser style
✅ Chrome delete (wrap or painted)
✅ Fitment that’s flush but functional
✅ Bonus: door sill plates and detail lighting
That’s how you turn a business-class fastback into an RS7 visual clone.
Section 6: Performance & Sound – Give It RS7-Level Power and Presence
Let’s be real—looking like an RS7 is only half the game.
Once you’ve got the diffuser, grille, bumper, wheels, and stance on point… you better back it up with power and sound.
The 2012–2018 Audi A7 comes with a 3.0T supercharged V6 putting down ~310–333 hp stock. The RS7? It’s got a twin-turbo 4.0L V8 throwing down 560 hp—and even more with the Performance Package.
While you won’t fully catch that V8 monster, there’s a TON of untapped potential in your 3.0T setup.
With the right bolt-ons and tune, you can hit 450+ hp, wake up the throttle, and make the car sound downright brutal.
In this final section, we’ll cover:
- Performance mods that actually move the needle
- Best sound upgrades to mimic RS7 growl
- Supercharger pulley mods & tunes
- Full bolt-on guide
- Sound clip links
- Where to buy everything (Amazon, AliExpress, & internal blog links)
Let’s get that RS7 bark and bite. 🐺
🔥 Stage 1: Tune Your ECU (Game Changer)
If you’re modding for real, a tune is your foundation.
The 3.0T gains massive performance with just an ECU reflash—even bone stock.
🎯 What a Tune Does:
- Increases boost
- Advances ignition timing
- Adjusts fuel and throttle mapping
- Unlocks up to 70–100 hp gains
- Removes speed limiter
🔧 Best Tunes for Audi A7 3.0T:
✅ EPL Stage 1 & 2
- Remote flash
- Smooth power band
👉 EPL Tuning – Official Site
✅ 034Motorsport Stage 1
- Proven, safe, and daily-friendly
👉 034Motorsport ECU Tune
✅ Integrated Engineering (IE) Stage 1/2
- Excellent gains + TCU tuning
👉 IE Tuning – A7 3.0T
⚙️ Stage 2: Supercharger Pulley Upgrade
The stock supercharger pulley limits boost. Swap it for a smaller pulley and raise the boost by 3–5 psi—resulting in serious power gains.
🧱 Lower Pulley vs Upper Pulley:
| Pulley Type | Boost Gain | Pros | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Pulley | +3–4 psi | Easy install | Less belt slip |
| Lower Pulley | +4–5 psi | More gain | Requires crank bolt removal |
| Dual Pulley | +6+ psi | Max gain | Requires cooling upgrade |
🏁 Top Pulley Kits:
- ECS Tuning Supercharger Pulley Kit
👉 ECS Pulley – A7 3.0T - JHM Lightweight Pulley Kit
👉 JHM Racing Pulley – Official Site - APR Dual Pulley Kit
👉 APR Pulley + Belt Kit
🔊 Exhaust Mods – Get That RS7 Growl
The RS7 has that deep, throaty, rumbling V8 that cracks on upshifts and burbles on decel. The 3.0T doesn’t sound quite the same—but with smart mods, it can sound mean as hell.
🔧 Best Sound Mods for A7 3.0T:
✅ Downpipes
- Removes catalytic restriction
- Increases volume by 25–40%
👉 Best Downpipes for A7 3.0T – Our Blog
✅ Resonator Delete
- Removes center muffler
- Adds rawness and rasp
👉 AliExpress Res Delete Kit
✅ Magnaflow or Borla Mufflers
- Deeper tone
- Moderate volume increase
👉 Amazon Muffler Kit – Magnaflow A7
✅ Cat-Back Exhaust Systems
- Cleanest full-system upgrade
- AWE, Corsa, Milltek, Borla = top-tier tone
👉 AWE Tuning Cat-Back
🔊 RS7 Sound Clones – Video Examples
🎥 A7 with CTS Downpipes + Resonator Delete + RS7 Tips
👉 Watch Clip
🎥 A7 3.0T w/ Dual Pulley + Stage 2 Tune + Catback
👉 Watch Exhaust Pulls
🎥 Before vs After – Stock vs Tuned + Exhaust A7 3.0T
👉 Watch Comparison
🧊 Cooling Mods – Stay Fast, Stay Safe
When you start stacking pulleys and tuning, your supercharger heats up FAST.
🔧 Add a heat exchanger upgrade to keep power consistent:
- IE Upgraded Heat Exchanger
👉 PerformanceByIE.com - CX Racing HX Kit – Budget Option
👉 eBay HX Kit – A7 3.0T
🚀 Full Bolt-On RS7 Clone Power Setup
| Mod | Effect | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 2 Tune | +80–100 hp | $600–$900 |
| Upper Pulley | +30–50 hp | $300–$500 |
| Heat Exchanger | Reliability | $500 |
| Intake | Sound + throttle | $250 |
| Downpipes | Volume + spool | $350–$700 |
| Res Delete | Volume | $100 |
| Catback Exhaust | Deep tone | $800–$1,800 |
| Total (approx): | 450+ HP A7 | $2.5k–$4k |
You’ll still be down ~100 hp from an RS7—but with way less weight and tons of torque down low, your A7 will move like an animal.
🛒 Where to Buy Performance Parts
✅ Amazon Performance Mods
✅ AliExpress Pulley Kits & Tips
✅ 034Motorsport.com – A7 Parts
✅ GermanCarMods.com – All Our A7 Upgrade Blogs
Final Words: RS7 Looks + Power = Certified Street Weapon
The RS7 isn’t just about looks—it’s about commanding presence, power, and aggression.
With the upgrades in this section, your A7 can earn that same reputation.
✅ Tune + Pulley = massive gains
✅ Downpipes + catback = brutal sound
✅ Intake + HX = reliability and feel
✅ Videos + exhaust tips = RS7 energy on a budget
That wraps your full RS7 visual and performance clone build.
