The new Audi RS5, in both Saloon and Avant forms, steps boldly into the high-performance segment. It presents a formidable challenge to established rivals like the BMW M3 Touring. This advanced machine showcases a significant shift towards plug-in hybrid technology. It blends raw power with enhanced efficiency. The RS5 redefines what a daily-drivable super-wagon can be.
This latest Audi RS5 model demands attention. It combines striking aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering. We delve deeper into its intricate details. This includes its design, powertrain, and sophisticated driving dynamics. You will understand how this vehicle truly performs. Let’s explore the new Audi RS5’s capabilities.
Exterior Design and Visual Identity of the New Audi RS5
The new Audi RS5 boasts a truly distinctive aesthetic. It moves far beyond its A5 and S5 siblings. Designers achieved a completely unique look. Most body panels are RS5 specific. This creates an imposing stance. The wider tracks visually enhance its aggressive character.
This particular example, in Bedford Green, exudes presence. Its twin oval exhausts are centrally mounted. This design choice stands out. Some online discussions question this. Yet, it complements the car’s overall styling. The new Audi RS5 avoids the subtle lines of its base models. It offers a bolder, more muscular appearance.
A point of contention remains the “faux carbon” trim. This cosmetic detail appears on mirrors, canards, and diffuser. Many enthusiasts prefer genuine carbon fiber or body-colored elements. The Bedford Green paintwork with color-coded mirrors, for instance, looks stunning. It highlights a more cohesive design language.
Pricing and Market Positioning in the Performance Segment
The new Audi RS5 Avant carries a starting price of £91,300 in the UK. This positions it directly against the BMW M3 Touring. The M3 Touring begins at £93,600. The Audi seems slightly more accessible at base level. However, BMW often includes more standard equipment. This narrows the perceived price gap significantly.
Our review car, a Performance Vorsprung Edition, features extensive options. These include carbon ceramic brakes. The optional Bedford Green paintwork adds to its allure. Various interior trims and stitching also add cost. This particular specification reaches an estimated £125,000. Potential buyers should consider these significant additions.
Powertrain Evolution: The Hybrid Heart of the Audi RS5
The new Audi RS5 adopts a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a heavily revised 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo combustion engine. An electric motor complements this V6. This system is similar to the current M5’s setup. The collaboration delivers immense power.
The combustion engine alone generates 510 horsepower. It would struggle with the RS5’s 2,370-kilo kerb weight. The hybrid system provides crucial torque fill. Its maximum combined output reaches 639 horsepower. It also produces a staggering 825 Newton meters of torque. These figures surpass the outgoing model. They also significantly exceed BMW’s M3.
The electric motor contributes 175 horsepower. It adds a punchy 460 Newton meters of torque. This is particularly noticeable at lower speeds. This instant electric assistance makes the car incredibly responsive. It never feels lacking in acceleration. The new Audi RS5 always delivers immediate power.
Electric Vehicle Capabilities and Battery Technology
This plug-in hybrid setup also allows for pure EV driving. The RS5 features a 25.9 kilowatt-hour battery. Approximately 22 kilowatt-hours are usable. Audi claims a 50-mile range on the combined cycle. This offers impressive flexibility. Drivers can achieve speeds up to 87 mph in full EV mode. This feature is perfect for urban commuting. It offers silent, emission-free travel. This hybrid system integrates seamlessly. It provides both performance and practicality.
Performance Metrics: Speed and Agility in the RS5
Despite its substantial 2,370-kilo weight, the new Audi RS5 accelerates fiercely. Audi claims 0 to 62 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Our tests confirmed this, yielding 3.59 seconds, then 3.54 seconds for 0-60 mph. These figures are remarkably precise. They demonstrate the efficiency of its launch control system. The Performance Vorsprung version lifts the electronic speed limit. This allows for a top speed of 177 mph. Such performance is truly impressive for a luxury wagon.
Driving Dynamics: Road and Track Impressions
The new Audi RS5 offers a dynamic driving experience. It features twin-valve adjustable dampers. This system provides two distinct extremes. Comfort mode delivers a remarkably plush ride. It almost mimics air suspension. This makes daily driving very pleasant. Most RS5 owners will likely prefer this setting. RS Individual mode allows customized settings. Suspension can be kept in Comfort for superior ride quality.
Pushing the RS5 on track reveals its weight. Tire pressures become critical. Cold pressures start at 3 bar. This is higher than a typical M3 Touring. Tire temperatures rise quickly, reaching 70 degrees Celsius on the front axle. Performance tires generally operate best below 65 degrees. Beyond this, grip levels can diminish. This leads to noticeable understeer. For track enthusiasts, managing tire heat is essential. Two aggressive laps often push tires past their optimal performance window.
Braking Prowess and Confidence
The braking system on the new Audi RS5 is exceptional. Our test car included the £9,000 optional carbon ceramic brakes. Audi states an 11% shorter stopping distance. This is compared to the outgoing RS4 Competition. That car already had excellent brakes. The RS5’s substantial weight vanishes under hard braking. This instills incredible confidence. Drivers can push harder. The car maintains composure.
The Quattro System and Dynamic Torque Control
Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system underpins the RS5. It uses a Torson center differential. The standard torque split is 40% front, 60% rear. This can vary dramatically. It sends up to 85% to the rear. It can send up to 70% to the front. This adaptability enhances traction. It improves the car’s dynamic capabilities.
A significant innovation comes from the plug-in hybrid system. It enables dynamic torque control. An 8 kW electric motor sits at the rear. It delivers up to 2000 Newton meters of differential torque. This is crucial for agility. It works independently of the combustion engine. It means torque vectoring is always available. This enhances cornering performance. It significantly improves overall handling.
Introducing RS Torque Rear: The Drift Mode
The RS Torque Rear mode fully utilizes this dynamic torque control. It essentially functions as a dedicated drift mode. The system provides smooth, controllable breakaway characteristics. It allows drivers to manage slides confidently. This sophisticated rear differential makes the RS5 incredibly agile. It masks the car’s weight effectively. This feature transforms the driving experience. It makes the new Audi RS5 a true driver’s car.
Interior Experience and Ergonomics
The RS5 interior is unmistakably modern Audi. It shares many elements with the A5 Avant. However, it incorporates exclusive RS touches. These include an Alcantara steering wheel. Distinctive Neodymium Gold seatbelts add flair. Neodymium stitching accents the cabin. These are often expensive optional extras. Seats offer comfort and support. However, carbon bucket seat options are absent. This is a missed opportunity. Such seats could elevate the driving experience. They would provide greater support during spirited driving.
Driving position in the RS5 is typically Audi. It is not poor, but it isn’t perfect. Taller drivers with long torsos might struggle. The flat-bottom steering wheel causes an ergonomic issue. It obscures parts of the virtual cockpit display. This is surprising for an Audi. Their virtual cockpit once led the industry. The central infotainment system includes RS-specific menus. This allows programming of custom RS buttons. The display car even shows color-coded mirrors. This aesthetic choice is widely preferred.
Practicality and Compromises: The Boot Space Dilemma
The new Audi RS5 faces a notable practicality compromise. Its plug-in hybrid battery lives under the boot floor. This significantly raises the floor. The RS5 Avant now offers 361 liters of boot space. The BMW M3 Touring provides 500 liters. This makes the RS5’s boot almost 30% smaller. It’s even 19 liters less than a Volkswagen Golf. This is a critical consideration. Current RS4 Avant owners rely on generous boot capacity. This reduction could pose substantial problems for them. It impacts the car’s daily usability for families or those needing cargo space. The performance gains come with a practical trade-off. This decision forces buyers to weigh priorities carefully. The Audi RS5 remains a compelling package, but compromises exist.
Your Burning Questions on the RS 5’s Performance and M3 Rivalry
What is the new Audi RS5?
The new Audi RS5 is a high-performance car offered as both a sedan (Saloon) and a wagon (Avant), featuring advanced plug-in hybrid technology.
Does the new Audi RS5 use hybrid technology?
Yes, it features a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a powerful V6 twin-turbo combustion engine with an electric motor for enhanced performance and efficiency.
Can the Audi RS5 drive on electricity alone?
Yes, it has a 25.9 kilowatt-hour battery that allows for pure electric driving, with an estimated range of 50 miles and speeds up to 87 mph in EV mode.
How fast is the new Audi RS5?
The new Audi RS5 is very fast, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.5 seconds. Its top speed can reach 177 mph in the Performance Vorsprung version.
Is the new Audi RS5 practical for daily use?
While designed for daily driving, its boot space is reduced to 361 liters due to the hybrid battery, making it less capacious for cargo than some competitors.
