Hybrid high performer: the new Audi RS 5

The new Audi RS 5 is Audi Sport’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – with real RS DNA and the highly-tuned hybrid-technology to match. The RS 5 masters any situation with agility and impressive precision and covers an extremely wide spread of driving dynamics – from comfortable every-day companion to potent performer. For the first time at Audi Sport, the powertrain pairs a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 outputting 375 kW (510 PS) and a 130 kW electric motor. They are joined by bespoke RS sport suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers, a completely new quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control, and world-first electro-mechanical torque vectoring at the rear. The new centre differential has a preload to always remain partially locked, managing longitudinal torque distribution. Transverse torque distribution at the rear is provided by a new differential that can shift torque between the wheels in milliseconds. The result: exceptionally agile, composed, and effortless driving.

 “The A5 model series’ new pinnace is our first high-performance plug-in hybrid. Our newly developed quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control is the world’s first electro-mechanical torque vectoring system in a production car. The sophisticated technical interplay between combustion engine and electric power brings performance and efficiency together in a new way at Audi. Customers can experience both peak sportiness and every-day comfort,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner.

Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport adds: “The RS 5 and its innovative drive concept mark the beginning of a new era for our RS models. They bring a new level of dynamics to the driving characteristics our customers love and further improve day-to-day use value thanks to all-electric driving and innovative technologies. A new interpretation of the true RS experience.”

The Audi RS 5 delivers motorsport performance for the road. Measuring around 90mm wider than the base-model A5 at the front and rear with flared fenders, it has a muscular stance. The three-dimensional Singleframe with a honey-comb grille and Air Curtains to control airflow dominate the front. At the rear, the aerodynamic diffuser and the RS sport exhaust system’s matte oval tailpipes ensure a sporty finish.

Both during the day and at night, the darkened Matrix LED headlights and their digital day- time-running-light signature in a checkered-flag design reinforce the car’s purposeful appearance.

The high-performance PHEV is the first production RS model to feature a modular electrified powertrain. At its heart are an improved 2.9-litre twin- turbo V6, an electric motor outputting 130 kW, the hybridized eight-speed gearbox, and a completely new rear transaxle with electro-mechanical torque vectoring – a world first in a production model. An actuator, overdrive gears, and a differential combine to intelligently transfer torque between the rear wheels. They do so almost fully variably and depending on the driving situation. A control unit recalculates optimal torque distribution between the rear wheel every five milliseconds – a frequency of 200 Hz. The torque vectoring system then immediately and precisely implements it. Put simply, electro-mechanical torque vectoring is the invisible maestro conducting an orchestra of performance and making sure customers experience driving fun and safety like never before.

The accurate interplay between all suspension components defines the driving characteristics of the Audi RS 5. The standouts: optimized and RS-specific front and rear axles, RS sport suspension with innovative twin-valve shock absorbers, RS-tuned steering, large 20-inch and 21-inch wheels shod in specifically tailored tyres, and powerful steel or ceramic brakes. The twin-valve technology allows the shock absorbers to provide both a very comfortable ride and an extremely sporty driving experience. It noticeably reduces pitch and roll, and means the dampers respond very quickly to changing road conditions.

The optional Audi Sport package for the new RS 5 Avant and RS 5 Saloon is the epitome of sportiness. It adds exclusive elements like bespoke, dynamic front and rear bumpers as well as two-tone diamond-cut phantom black 21-inch wheels with matte accents. An RS sport exhaust system and the raised top speed of 177mph ensure even more performance. The exclusive interior features contrast stitching in Serpentine green for the first time. The package also offers a broad range of customization options, including Bedford green metallic paint. RS ceramic brakes with bronze-coloured calipers and carbon camouflage elements complete the look.

The new Audi driving experience function is standard equipment. It enables users to view detailed analysis of the routes driven, displayed on the 14.5-inch MMI touch display. At the racetrack, they can also analyse and store sector times. When using the drive select mode RS torque rear, the system also offers statistics such as the drift angle achieved. The RS 5 family is built in Neckarsulm, Germany. The order books for European buyers open in the first quarter of 2026, and deliveries are expected to commence Summer 2026.

Audi RS 5