Audi RS goes first-time plug-in hybrid with all-new RS5

RS5 debuts as either a sedan or Avant, the latter replacing the previous RS4 Avant. Picture: Audi Its reveal mooted since the arrival of the new A5 nearly two years ago, Audi has officially removed the wraps from the all-new RS5. Debuting as a sedan and Avant station wagon – both firsts for the RS5 moniker – the newcomer also becomes the first ever Audi RS to have a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

>Replacing not only the previous RS5, but also the RS4 Avant then based on the A4, the newcomer maintains a six-cylinder setup versus the outgoing four-cylinder of the Mercedes-AMG C63. Up front, the RS5 retains the 2.9 TFSI V6 engine, but with a number of revisions to now produce more than before. These amount to a new turbocharger, air intake system, water-to-air intercooler and intake valves.

The result is 375 kW instead of 331 kW, and an unchanged 600 Nm of torque. On the electric front, the new 25.5-kWh battery pack powers a single electric motor on the rear axle delivering 130kW/470Nm. A combination firstmentioned in 2019 for the then next generation RS4, the setup produces a combined 470kW/825Nm.

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Accordingly, the RS5 will get from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 250 km/h or 285 km/h with the optional RS Driver’s Package fitted. The claimed all-electric range is 87 km. As before, the quattro all-wheel drive system has been paired with a limited slip differential and a new torque vectoring system.

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