By Staff Reporter

Audi RS 5 enters a new chapter as Audi Sport’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid. The formula now blends a twin-turbo V6 with electric power, delivering a combined 470kW and 825Nm, while offering more than 80km of electric driving range in urban use.

At the heart of the RS 5 is a revised 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 375kW and 600Nm, paired with a 130kW electric motor integrated into an eight-speed automatic transmission. Audi claims 0 to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250km/h, or 285km/h with the optional Audi Sport package.

The hybrid system uses a 25.9kWh battery with 22kWh usable capacity. Charging at up to 11kW AC takes around 2.5 hours for a full charge. Audi quotes up to 84km of electric range, and up to 87km in city conditions, giving the RS 5 a genuine EV mode for daily driving.

Wider, lower and unmistakably RS

Visually, the new RS 5 makes a strong statement. Compared to the standard A5, the body is widened by roughly four centimetres on each side, front and rear. The flared wheel arches, large wheels and lower stance give it a more planted, muscular look.

Up front, a three-dimensional honeycomb Singleframe grille dominates the nose, framed by darkened Matrix LED headlights with an RS-specific daytime running light signature inspired by a chequered flag. Large air intakes and functional air curtains add to the purposeful design.

At the rear, a sculpted diffuser houses matte oval exhaust outlets, while the digital OLED rear lights feature distinctive graphics and integrated communication lighting. Wheel options range from 20 to 21 inches, including forged designs, further reinforcing the car’s performance intent.

A digital, driver-focused cabin

Inside, the RS 5 combines sport and technology. The main display setup consists of an 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch central touchscreen housed within a curved panel. A 10.9-inch passenger display is also available.

RS-specific graphics in the virtual cockpit show rev counters, shift lights, performance data and lap timing information. Drivers can monitor energy flow between the V6 and electric motor, along with battery and drivetrain temperatures.

Sport seats with honeycomb quilting come standard, offering strong lateral support. Buyers can choose from leather or leather-free interiors, with Dinamica microfiber and contrast stitching adding to the RS identity. A flat-bottom RS steering wheel with integrated drive mode controls reinforces the performance focus.

Hybrid performance with new quattro tech

The new RS 5 introduces a reworked quattro system with Dynamic Torque Control. A revised centre differential with preload improves turn-in response, while the new rear transaxle enables electromechanical torque vectoring. Torque can be distributed between the rear wheels in as little as 15 milliseconds, sharpening agility and stability.

Revised suspension, twin-valve adaptive dampers and large steel or optional ceramic brakes support the added performance and mass.

In Germany, the RS 5 Sedan starts at €106,200, with the Avant slightly higher. Orders open in early 2026, with deliveries expected from mid-2026. At this stage, Audi South Africa has not confirmed whether the new RS 5 will be introduced locally. For now, its arrival in South Africa remains unconfirmed.