- 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 previous models.
- Electric range: 54 miles.
Mercedes-AMG and BMW 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 stricter EU legislation.
Ingolstadt’s inaugural PHEV with the RS badge aims to strike the right balance between the old way of doing things and the new electric age. Instead of downsizing the four-cylinder, the 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 built in an RS Torque Rear mode for tail-happy shenanigans, although this de facto drift mode is only for “non-public roads”. The Tiptronic gearbox, paired with a self-locking differential, can deliver up to 85 percent of the torque to the rear axle. Depending on driving conditions, as much as 70 percent can be sent to the front wheels.
Photo by: Audi
This time, the six-cylinder engine isn’t working alone. It is 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 bad for a model competing in the same class as the now defunct A4.
As expected, the new RS5 is blisteringly fast. 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 all-electric mode. In the city, drivers can travel up to 54 miles (87 km) without refueling. 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 kg) in European specification. That’s a hefty 1,378 pounds (625 kg) increase over its predecessor. hey
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Source: Audi
At the same time, the RS5 Avant is 617 lbs (280 kg) heavier than the larger RS6 Avant with its non-electrified V8. The extra mass isn’t just due to the PHEV hardware. The A5 donor model is also considerably larger than the A4 it replaces. Likewise, we expect the next RS6 to weigh more than a few pounds and if it keeps the V8, adds an electric motor, and grows in size.
Specifications aside, the new RS5 looks fantastic. Well, at least on the outside. The wide-body duo includes functional front fender air intakes and large oval exhaust tips, located near the center of the bumper. As usual, we prefer the wagon over the sedan, which is technically a five-door liftback like the old RS5 Sportback.
RS models are about 3.5 inches (nine centimeters) wider than the standard A5 at both ends, where optional ceramic brakes sit behind 20- or 21-inch wheels. Deep matrix LED headlights and black four-rings amplify the visual drama, complemented by a checkered flag motif in the OLED taillights. The massive front air intake and rear spoiler for both body styles leave no doubt that this is the range-topping A5. Optional exterior elements are also available in carbon fiber for those looking to add options.
Photo by: Audi
Inside, the changes are less dramatic. There’s still plenty of gloss black trim, a triple-screen display with thick bezels, and the usual capacitive touch controls. Audi has outfitted the cabin with body-hugging seats with honeycomb quilting, standard electric adjustments, and a massage function. The base RS5 forgoes leather upholstery, while higher trims offer a choice of red or gray leather.
Elsewhere, the cabin features a leather-wrapped steering wheel that tilts up and down, complete with RS buttons for changing driving modes and activating the boost function. It lasts for 10 seconds, unlocking maximum performance to overtake or impress passengers. Contrast stitching, a black headliner, and decorative studs round out the fit.
Audi will launch 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 starts at €107,850. Customer shipments are scheduled to begin this summer.
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Source: Audi
Motor1’s Tech: The new RS5, especially in wagon form, is one of the most attractive Audi models in years. As long as you don’t mind the weight figures, the technical specifications are impressive. The ability to cruise quietly around town without firing up the V6 adds welcome versatility to an already compelling all-rounder.
The plug-in hybrid setup is no surprise, having been announced years ago. PHEVs can be seen as a necessary evil in the performance segment. In Audi’s defense, it has managed to keep the V6 instead of downsizing to a four-cylinder like its rival from Affalterbach did with the soon-to-be-discontinued AMG C63.
