Audi has unveiled the new Audi RS 5, marking the brand’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The model combines a revised 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with a 130-kW electric motor, delivering a total system output of up to 470 kW (630hp) and 825 Nm of torque.
Related: The next-generation Audi A6 Avant has been unveiled
The electrified RS 5 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and offers an all-electric driving range of up to 84 kilometers (EAER), or up to 87 kilometers in city driving.
At the core of the RS 5 is an updated 2.9-liter V6 TFSI engine producing 375 kW (503 hp), an increase of 44 kW over its predecessor. The engine uses a modified Miller cycle to improve efficiency under partial load. Two variable-geometry turbochargers and optimized intake and intercooling systems enhance throttle response and performance. Audi claims up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption under high loads compared to the previous generation.
The V6 is paired with a 130-kW (174 hp) electric motor integrated into the eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The motor delivers 460 Nm of torque and also replaces the conventional 12-volt starter. Power is supplied by a 25.9-kWh battery (22 kWh net capacity) operating on a 400-volt system.
The RS 5 supports AC charging at up to 11 kW, allowing a full charge in approximately 2.5 hours using a standard Mode 3 Type 2 cable.
A key feature of the new RS 5 is Dynamic Torque Control, an electromechanical torque-vectoring system integrated into the rear transaxle. The system uses an 8-kW electric actuator to distribute torque between the rear wheels in as little as 15 milliseconds. It can apply torque differences of up to 2,000 Nm, improving traction and stability during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
The eight-speed Tiptronic transmission works with a new center differential featuring preload. Torque distribution between the front and rear axles can range from 70:30 to 15:85. The preload keeps the axles partially locked even when off throttle, improving turn-in response and reducing understeer.
Audi’s driving dynamics controller processes steering, throttle, braking, and vehicle data at 200 Hz to optimize torque distribution in real time.
The RS 5 features RS-specific front and rear axles, five-link suspension at both ends, and an RS sport suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers. The body structure is 10 percent stiffer than the base model A5.
Steering has a 13:1 ratio for quicker response. The integrated brake regulation system uses brake-by-wire technology and prioritizes regenerative braking before deploying friction brakes.
Standard braking includes 20-inch steel discs measuring 420 mm at the front and 400 mm at the rear. Optional 21-inch ceramic brakes measure 440 mm at the front and 410 mm at the rear, reducing weight by around 30 kilograms. With ceramic brakes, the RS 5 can stop from 100 km/h in 30.6 meters.
Curb weight is listed at 2,355 kilograms for the Sedan and 2,370 kilograms for the Avant.
Drivers can select from Comfort, Balanced, Dynamic, RS Sport, RS Torque Rear, and RS Individual modes via Audi Drive Select.
RS Torque Rear mode prioritizes rear-wheel torque distribution for controlled oversteer on closed courses. RS Sport mode focuses on maximum lateral acceleration and traction. In Dynamic mode, throttle and steering responses are sharpened.
A boost function provides maximum acceleration for 10 seconds at the push of a button. The system selects the optimal gear and opens the exhaust valves for enhanced sound. Boost is available in all driving modes.
The RS 5 offers EV and Hybrid modes. In Hybrid mode, drivers can set a preferred battery state of charge via the MMI system. The battery is maintained at a minimum of 20 percent in Dynamic mode and 90 percent in RS Sport and RS Torque Rear modes to ensure consistent electric support.
The RS 5 adopts a wider stance, extending by 4 centimeters on each side compared to the standard A5. A large single-frame grille with a honeycomb pattern dominates the front fascia. Sculpted wheel arches reference the original Ur-quattro.
At the rear, a pronounced diffuser with vertical fins integrates centrally positioned oval exhaust tips. Optional darkened Matrix LED headlights and second-generation digital OLED rear lights feature RS-specific lighting signatures.
Nine exterior colors are available, including Ascari Blue, Mythos Black, and Progressive Red. Audi exclusive options include Merlin Pearl Effect, Goodwood Green, and Panther Black Crystal Effect. Matte Plateau Grey is exclusive to the RS 5.
Standard wheels are 20-inch matte grey alloys with 285/35 tires. Optional forged 21-inch wheels are available in multiple finishes.
The RS 5 features an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display in a curved OLED layout. A 10.9-inch passenger display is standard. An optional head-up display shows engine speed, gear selection, and shift indicators.
RS-specific graphics provide performance data, including G-forces, lap times, tire temperatures, and drivetrain metrics. The Audi driving experience function records driving inputs, lap times, and sector analysis. An optional integrated dashcam captures video footage.
Sport seats plus with honeycomb quilting are standard, with a massage function included. Interior options include leather-free Cascade cloth and Dinamica microfiber materials or leather in red or gray. Decorative inlays include carbon micro twill and a black-lacquered aluminum rhombus.
An optional Audi Sport package increases top speed to 285 km/h and adds larger air intakes, a redesigned rear diffuser, matte black exhaust tips, and exclusive 21-inch wheels. Ceramic brakes with bronze calipers are included.
The package introduces Bedford Green metallic exterior paint and Serpentine Green interior stitching accents. A Carbon Camouflage package is available in combination with forged carbon exterior elements and matching interior trim.
The new Audi RS 5 combines hybrid efficiency with traditional RS performance features, positioning it as Audi Sport’s first electrified high-performance model.
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