The previous generations of the Audi RS 5 and RS 4 were reliable sports cars, but they never quite made it to the top when it came to pure driving pleasure. They often seemed a little reserved, precise, but lacking the impulsive character you would expect from a true RS. They delivered solid performance under the radar, but many felt they lacked that certain something compared to their competitors from Munich.

The brand new Audi RS 5 is set to fundamentally change this perception. Audi is presenting its first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with the RS designation. The 2.9-liter V6 biturbo delivers 375 kW (510 hp), supported by a 130 kW electric motor. Together, they deliver a total of 639 hp!

39 hp more than the current RS6.

The combination of combustion engine and electric motor is designed to offer a new driving experience that combines sportiness and comfort. For the first time, the RS 5 will be available as a sedan and Avant.

Audi has completely redesigned the powertrain. The new rear axle transmission with Dynamic Torque Control enables electromechanical torque vectoring in large-scale production for the first time. Longitudinal distribution is handled by a self-locking center differential, while transverse distribution distributes torque between the rear wheels at lightning speed. This means that every driving movement is analyzed and adjusted within five milliseconds. The RS5 thus promises confident, effortless handling that noticeably supports the driver without taking control away.

The chassis also takes on a new dimension. The RS sports suspension with 2-valve damper technology effectively reduces pitching and rolling, while the steering has been finely tuned for sportiness. Large 20- and 21-inch wheels provide grip, while powerful brake systems, available in either steel or ceramic, deliver the necessary deceleration. Comfort and sportiness are thus bundled into a package that combines everyday practicality with racing ambitions.

Visually, the new RS 5 exudes confidence. The body is wider at the front and rear than the A5, and flared wheel arches emphasize its presence. The single-frame grille with honeycomb grille, air curtains, aerodynamically shaped rear diffuser, and oval tailpipes of the RS sports exhaust system make the car instantly recognizable as an RS. Darkened Matrix LED headlights add additional accents, both during the day and at night.

The optional Audi Sport package further enhances the sportiness. 21-inch two-tone wheels, Phantom Black accents, a top speed increased to 285 km/h, and the RS sports exhaust system visibly boost performance. For the first time, the interior features contrasting stitching in Serpentine Green and brass-colored accents, complemented by carbon elements.

A glance inside the Ingolstadt-based car reveals that the RS 5 also follows the current design line already familiar from the standard A5. The cockpit appears to be of high quality, but is dominated by screens. Three displays feature prominently on the dashboard. The central MMI touch display measures 14.5 inches, and there is also a digital instrument cluster and an optional screen for the front passenger. There are hardly any tactile buttons left. Classic rotary controls or clearly defined switches are largely absent. There’s no question that the material quality is impressive and the sports seats offer excellent support, but one would wish for a performance model to have a little more distance from digitalization, more tactile feedback, and more direct, mechanical interaction.

With a maximum system output of 470 kW, the RS 5 sedan will start at €106,200 in Germany. The RS 5 Avant will be available starting at €107,850. The vehicles will be produced in Neckarsulm and can be ordered starting in the first quarter of 2026. The first deliveries are scheduled for summer 2026.

Photos: AUDI AG