The new 639-horsepower Audi RS 5 can go from 0 to 100kph in just 3.6 seconds
Performance cars have always been known for their thrilling driving experience. Many have gone full electric, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, and our focus for today, Audi with its RS e-tron GT.
But the German luxury automaker isn’t ready to fully let go of internal combustion engines (ICE) for its performance cars thus it has just revealed the new R S5 which is now a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), just like the BMW M5 and M5 Touring.
Based on the B10 Audi A5, the new RS 5 retains its 2.9-liter twin-turbo TFSI V6 engine, now making 510 horsepower and 600Nm of torque on its own. This is now paired to an electric motor that makes 177 horsepower and 460Nm.
Combined, the system produces a total of 639 horsepower and 825Nm, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. A 25.9kWh battery provides an all-electric range of up to 87km, and Audi also claims a 0 to 100kph acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 285kph.
The new RS 5 is also equipped with Dynamic Torque Control in the rear transaxle. This electro mechanical torque vectoring feature can rapidly and precisely distribute torque between the rear wheels for a balance between agility, stability, and traction.
Outside the mechanical bits, the new Audi RS 5 is certainly a looker. It measures 90mm wider than the standard A5 thanks to flared fenders that give it a more muscular stance. Its honeycomb grille is more than just for aesthetics as it comes with air curtains that controls airflow. The rear features an aerodynamic diffuser, along with RS sport exhausts with oval tailpipes.
The matrix LED headlights feature a checkered flag-inspired daytime running light signature, and an Audi Sport package adds in unique front and rear bumpers, as well as 21-inch two-tone diamond-cut phantom black wheels with matte accents. Of course, it’s available in both sedan and Avant (wagon) bodystyles.
Inside, its 14.5-inch MMI display gets added RS-specific software for analyzing and storing sector times, as well as offers statistics such as achieved drift angle when using the RS torque rear drive mode. Also included are temperature information for the tires, transmission, rear transaxle, and the battery.
Sport seats with a honeycomb quilt pattern offer better support and comfort. An option for a leather-free Cascade cloth interior made up of recycled materials is available, along with Dinamica microfiber trim. Genuine leather upholstery is also available which can be had in red or gray colors. These are just a few of many other options that are available for the interior.
The new Audi RS 5 will first launch in Germany for EUR 106,200 (~Php 7,230,000) for the sedan, or EUR 107,850 (~Php 7,340,000) for the Avant. With Audi Philippines historically offering RS versions of its lineup, we won’t be surprised to see the RS 5 offered locally, alongside its current crossover- and electric-focused lineup.
Photos from Audi
