By Sala Masindane

Things are forever changing or evolving, whether its bakkies riding on SUV platforms or the same SUVs being faster than the hatchbacks. That will always be the case as automakers are adapting to requests of customers. Fast-forward to recent times, coupés have cemented themselves so much so that some markets sell more of them then sedans. Nobody would have ever dreamt of the day, but we are here now and recently the updated RS5 Coupé Quattro into our doorstep.

What has been updated?

Exterior highlights of Audi’s high-performance coupé include a flatter and wider single frame grille, newly designed set of wheels and taillight units. Our test RS5 coupé was fitted with the optional Matrix LED headlights with Audi’s laser light technology and darkened bezels.

Inside, there’s a freestanding 10.1-inch touchscreen that’s slightly angled towards the driver. The latter is running on Audi’s MMI infotainment. The infotainment display is flanked by an optional 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit. Throughout the cabin there are RS badgings and RS sports seats round off the sporty yet luxurious cabin. The RS5 Coupé Quattro excels in the everyday life as the cabin is a comfortable place to be in, especially for the front passengers. The rear might feel cramped for averaged size adults, but this is to be expected in a coupé.

Performance and drive

The RS5 Coupé Quattro retains the 2.9-litre TFSI twin-turbo V6 producing 331kW and 600Nm. A quick-shifting 8-speed Tiptronic and Quattro permanent all-wheel drive helps propel the RS5 from 0-100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. Being a “gentleman spec,” at face value, it appears to lack that enthusiast “fun factor” but be warned, it’s certainly not a slouch. The acceleration is almost immediate thanks to minimal turbo lag and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system that propels it ahead with relative ease. When enthusiastically driven the RS5 Coupé stays planted and grips on the road quite impressively.

Final Word

Overall, the RS5 Coupé Quattro is a perfect gentleman that entertains when required and manages to seamlessly execute daily tasks. The Audi RS5 Coupé Quattro is priced from R1,422,500 and includes a five-year or 100 000km Audi Freeway Plan.