The RS5, either as a classic two-door Coupé or as a five-door Sportback, remains true to its genetics and continues the sporty and elegant character also in its revised version. The best example of this is the three-dimensional wave-like shoulder line. Like the original Audi quattro, the RS5 impresses with perfectly balanced proportions: A long engine hood, the extended wheelbase, and the short overhangs underline the sporty presence of the RS5.
The new Singleframe is considerably flatter and wider compared to the Audi A5. The radiator protective grille with the RS-specific three-dimensional honeycomb structure features a gloss black design. The implied air vents above the grille are reminiscent of the classic Audi Sport quattro from 1984. RS-specific darkened Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light are available as an alternative to the standard Matrix LED headlights. The large, striking side air inlets have a new, pentagonal, geometric cut.
Stunning pulling power: the drive
Immense pulling power and high output combined with efficiency: Even after the revision, the output of the 2.9 TFSI remains unchanged at 331 kW (450 PS). The V6 twin-turbo delivers between 1,900 and 5,000 rpm; during this process, each charger supplies a cylinder bank with compressed air and 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque is supplied to the crankshaft. Both RS models catapult themselves from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 3.9 seconds; on request, Audi Sport GmbH can raise the top speed from 250 km/h (155.3 mph) to 280 km/h (174.0 mph).
An eight-speed tiptronic that has been tuned for sportiness transmits the forces of the engine; the driver can control it using enlarged aluminum shift paddles. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive gives the RS5 a special place in the segment. In normal driving operation, the power distribution between the front and rear axle is 40:60 - this asymmetrical dynamic torque distribution leads to sporty, rear-biased handling. If necessary, the center differential can redirect up to 70% of the forces toward the front or up to 85% of the forces toward the rear. With the optional sport differential, which actively distributes torques between the wheels of the rear axle, the dynamic handling is increased even further.
In the WLTP driving cycle, the Audi RS5 Coupé consumes just 9.1 l (2.4 US gal) of fuel per 100 km (62.1 mi); the RS5 Sportback consumes 9.2 l (2.4 US gal); the two vehicles thus emit 208 g/km (334.7 g/mi) and 209 g/km (336.4 g/mi) of CO2 respectively.
Tuned for sportiness: the suspension
The taut and tuned RS sport suspension forms a perfect partner for the strong drive. The RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) is available on request. It realizes a purely hydraulic and thus fully instantaneous roll and pitch stabilization; the operation of its dampers can be switched into three stages using the Audi drive select dynamic handling system.
Apart from the familiar comfort, auto, and dynamic drive modes, there are the two new "RS1" and "RS2" modes. These can be individually configured, saved, and then selected directly and quickly via the RS Mode button on the steering wheel. Audi drive select influences the operation of important technical elements, including the engine, tiptronic, steering, and optional components, such as damping, dynamic steering, sport differential, and exhaust flaps.
The Audi RS5 Coupé and the RS5 Sportback drive on 19-inch wheels as standard. 20-inch wheels in three new designs, one version of which is milled and painted in matt bronze, are available on request.
In Germany and other European markets, the RS5 Coupé and RS5 Sportback have been available to order since December 2019; both models will be available at dealerships in spring 2020.