And in 2012, AWE introduced carbon fiber shrouds to the mix, producing a lighter, and more aesthetically appealing kit as well. The bulk of the AWE side mount intercooler testing was conducted on S4s with the previously available AWE RSK04 kit installed. This is important to consider, given that as boost rises, so will boost drop due to core restriction. Thus, an intercooler can perform well at relatively low boost levels but can begin to perform worse than stock if the boost drop is high enough to negate any gains seen from temperature drops. Not only did AWE want the Audi 2.7T Performance Intercooler Kit to be clearly superior to the RS4 unit performance, but AWE also ensured that it would require very little modification to the US spec Audi 2.7T models during fitment. The RS4 intercooler units are made to fit the Europe only RS4 and mating them to a US spec 2.7T model requires significant cutting of both the intercoolers and the vehicle itself. The AWE design can be fitted in less than half the time of the typical RS4 kit. This means paying less for labor charges. Since RS4 units were never intended to be used on the US S4 chassis, extensive modifying or tweaking of the areas around the intercoolers is needed to force fitment. The AWE Audi 2.7T Performance Intercooler Kit was designed and built to fit the US S4 chassis, resulting in a much better, cleaner fit with very little modification required. Some key fitment detail differences between the AWE Audi 2.7T Performance Intercooler Kit and the RS4 "kits:" 100% coverage of the core face with AWE Carbon Fiber air ducts. RS4 kits leave gaps around face that lets cooling air escape. No modification needed to the engine belly tray with our design. Cores are secure and supported. Please note, the AWE Audi 2.7T Performance Intercooler Kit is for racing use only. ** NOTE: In order to fit A6 or allroad models, minimal trimming of the bumper and shrouds is necessary.
