The New Audi RS 5: 639PS Hybrid Power Meets True RS DNA

Audi Sport has just pulled the covers off something big. The new Audi RS 5 is officially the brand’s first-ever high-performance plug-in hybrid - and it’s not a soft eco experiment. It’s a 470 kW (639 PS) statement.

With over 80 km of electric range for urban driving, an optional 285 km/h top speed, and a completely new quattro system featuring Dynamic Torque Control, this is RS stepping into a new era - without losing its edge.

639 PS – V6 + Electric, Done Properly​

For the first time in an RS model, Audi Sport combines a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 (375 kW / 510 PS) with a 130 kW electric motor.

The result?
• 470 kW (639 PS) system output
• Instant electric punch
• Long-distance comfort
• Genuine everyday usability

Whether it’s carving B-roads, sitting on the autobahn, or creeping silently through town on electric power, the RS 5 now covers an enormous performance spectrum. This isn’t electrification for compliance - it’s electrification for performance.

World First: Quattro with Dynamic Torque Control​

Here’s where it gets really interesting.

The new RS 5 introduces a world-first electro-mechanical torque vectoring system integrated into a new rear transaxle. Audi calls it Dynamic Torque Control, and it fundamentally changes how the car rotates and delivers power.

• A new rear differential can shift torque between rear wheels in milliseconds.
• A control unit recalculates torque distribution every 5 milliseconds (200 times per second).
• The centre diff remains partially locked at all times for sharper longitudinal balance.

In simple terms:
The RS 5 should feel sharper, more agile and more composed than any RS 5 before it. Audi describes it as an “invisible maestro” managing performance - forum debates incoming…

Chassis: Comfort and Attack Mode in One Car​

The suspension setup is fully RS-specific:

• Bespoke front and rear axles
• RS sport suspension with twin-valve dampers
• RS-tuned steering
• 20- or 21-inch wheels
• Steel or optional ceramic brakes

The twin-valve dampers are key — allowing proper compliance in comfort mode while massively reducing roll and pitch when things get serious. Translation: this should be both a motorway cruiser and a proper back-road weapon.

Proper RS Presence​

Visually, it’s unmistakably RS:

• Around 9 cm wider than a standard A5
• Flared arches
• 3D honeycomb Singleframe
• Air Curtains
• Rear diffuser
• Matte oval RS exhaust tips
• Darkened Matrix LED headlights with checkered-flag DRL signature

Avant or Sedan — both get the full muscle treatment.

Audi-Sport Package (not an ASN one sadly)​

If you want it properly dialed up:

• Unique bumpers
• 21-inch two-tone wheels
• RS sport exhaust
• 285 km/h top speed
• Ceramic brakes with bronze calipers
• Carbon camouflage details
• New interior stitching options (including Serpentine green and brass)

Yes, it’s subtle. No, it’s not subtle at all.

Track Data & Drift Stats​

New for this generation is the Audi driving experience function, which lets you analyse route data and even log sector times at the track.

In RS Torque Rear mode, you can even view drift angle statistics.

UK/Europe Pricing & Availability​

Built in Neckarsulm, the new RS 5 will open for European orders in Q1 2026, with deliveries expected in Summer 2026.

German pricing starts at:

• €106,200 for the Sedan
• €107,850 for the Avant

UK pricing TBC, but expect it north of six figures once options land.

A New Era for RS?​

This RS 5 marks a genuine shift. It’s:

• The first electrified RS performance model
• The first with electro-mechanical rear torque vectoring
• The most powerful RS 5 ever

Oof!

 

Whilst this looks amazing imho the additional 500kg of weight is just a step too far. I was annoyed when the M3 for example got bumped up to 1800kg but with hindsight it seems a blessing Vs modern machinery.

TX.