THE BREAKDOWN
- The new RS5 models combine a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 with an electric motor.
- Total system output: 630 hp and 608 lb-ft (825 Nm).
- The 25.9-kWh battery pack adds a significant weight penalty compared to the preceding models.
- Electric range: 54 miles.
Mercedes-AMG and BMW M already offer plug-in hybrids, and now it’s Audi Sport’s turn to launch electrified performance models. The new RS5 is a reminder that tightening emissions regulations are forcing the industry’s biggest names to adapt their most exciting cars to comply with stricter European Union legislation.
Ingolstadt’s inaugural PHEV with an RS badge aims to strike the right balance between the old way of doing things and the new electrified era. Rather than downsizing to a four-cylinder, Audi Sport has retained the twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 under the hood. It now produces 503 horsepower, or 59 hp more than its predecessor.
Power is sent to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a new Quattro system with rear-axle torque vectoring. Audi Sport has engineered an RS torque rear mode for tail-happy shenanigans, though this de facto drift mode is intended only for “non-public roads.” The Tiptronic gearbox, paired with a self-locking differential, can direct up to 85 percent of torque to the rear axle. Depending on driving conditions, as much as 70 percent can be sent to the front wheels.
This time, the six-cylinder engine isn’t working alone. It’s paired with an electric motor producing 174 hp. Combined, the plug-in hybrid system delivers a substantial 630 hp and 608 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. Not too shabby for a model competing in the same class as the now-defunct A4.
As expected, the new RS5 is blisteringly quick. Audi claims a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 177 mph (285 km/h). You won’t need to rely on the gas engine all the time, as the 25.9-kWh battery enables an all-electric mode. In the city, drivers can travel up to 54 miles (87 kilometers) without using any fuel. Once depleted, a full charge takes about two and a half hours.
But while the new RS5 appears to offer the best of both worlds, there’s an elephant in the room: weight. Yes, the car is now significantly heavier. The more practical Avant tips the scales at 5,225 pounds (2,370 kilograms) in European specification. That’s a hefty 1,378-pound (625-kilogram) increase over its predecessor. Yikes.
At the same time, the RS5 Avant is 617 lbs (280 kg) heavier than the larger RS6 Avant with its non-electrified V8. The added mass isn’t solely due to the PHEV hardware. The A5 donor model is also considerably larger than the A4 it replaces. Similarly, we expect the next RS6 to put on more than a few pounds as well if it keeps the V8, adds an electric motor, and grows in size.
Specs aside, the new RS5 looks fantastic. Well, at least on the outside. The widebody duo features functional front-fender air intakes and large oval exhaust tips, positioned closer to the center of the bumper. As always, we prefer the wagon over the sedan, which is technically a five-door liftback, much like the old RS5 Sportback.
The RS models are about 3.5 inches (nine centimeters) wider than a standard A5 at both ends, where optional ceramic brakes sit behind 20- or 21-inch wheels. Darker matrix LED headlights and black Four Rings amplify the visual drama, complemented by a checkered-flag motif echoed in the OLED taillights. Massive front air intakes and rear spoilers for both body styles leave no doubt that this is the range-topping A5. Select exterior elements are also available in carbon fiber for those willing to splurge on options.
Inside, changes are less dramatic. There’s still plenty of glossy black trim, a triple-screen display with thick bezels, and the usual capacitive-touch controls. Audi has spruced up the cabin with body-hugging seats featuring honeycomb quilting, standard electric adjustment, and a massage function. The base RS5 skips leather upholstery, while higher trims offer a choice of red or gray leather.
Elsewhere, the cabin features a leather-wrapped steering wheel flattened at the top and bottom, complete with RS buttons to switch driving modes and activate the boost function. It lasts for 10 seconds, unlocking maximum performance for overtaking or impressing passengers. Contrasting stitching, a black headliner, and decorative inlays round off the tweaks.
Audi will launch the new RS5 models in Europe during the first quarter of the year. In Germany, the RS5 Sedan starts at €106,200, while the more practical RS5 Avant begins at €107,850. Customer deliveries are scheduled to start this summer. It arrives in the United States next year, but Audi isn't willing to confirm whether the Avant is coming.
