Audi has introduced the all-new RS 5 in South Africa, marking the first time the brand has equipped one of its high-performance RS production models with plug-in hybrid technology.
Available in Sedan and Avant body styles, the new RS 5 combines a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine with an electric motor to produce 470 kW and 825 Nm of torque. Audi claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3.6 seconds.
Twin-turbo V6 with electric assistance
The RS 5’s plug-in hybrid powertrain sends power to all four wheels through an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.
A 22 kWh lithium-ion battery provides an electric driving range of between 78 and 84 km, with AC charging supported at up to 11 kW. The system also recovers energy through regenerative braking.
Drivers can switch between EV and Hybrid modes, while a boost function delivers maximum available performance for 10 seconds at the push of a button.
Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h, increasing to 285 km/h with the optional Audi Sport package.
New quattro system and suspension
The new RS 5 introduces Audi’s quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control, which the manufacturer says is the world’s first electromechanical rear-axle torque vectoring system fitted to a production vehicle.
The system distributes torque between the rear wheels to improve cornering agility, traction and stability.
It works alongside RS sport suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers, while Audi drive select offers several driving modes, including balanced, dynamic and RS sport. An RS torque rear mode is also available for use on closed courses.
More aggressive exterior styling
Compared with the standard A5, the new RS 5 is 40 mm wider on each side at the front and rear, giving it a more muscular appearance.
The exterior features a distinctive Singleframe grille, larger air intakes, pronounced wheel arches and centrally positioned oval exhaust outlets.
Standard equipment includes 20-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels, Gloss Black RS detailing, an RS sport exhaust system and darkened Matrix LED headlights.
Optional 21-inch wheels, carbon styling packages and additional exterior finishes are also available.
The Sedan offers a traditional sporty silhouette, while the Avant combines the same performance credentials with the added practicality of an estate body.
Sporty interior with plenty of technology
Inside, the RS 5 features RS sport seats plus with perforated leather upholstery, honeycomb detailing and contrasting stitching.
The front seats come standard with electric adjustment, heating, ventilation and massage functions. Other standard features include three-zone climate control, ambient lighting and an RS sport steering wheel with shift paddles.
Audi’s virtual cockpit plus and MMI experience plus infotainment system provide access to vehicle information, navigation and connectivity features.
Drivers can also monitor performance data, including G-forces, tyre pressures, temperatures and lap times through the Audi driving experience function.
A head-up display, front passenger screen, Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium sound system and surround-view cameras are standard.
The optional Technology package pro adds digital OLED rear lights, remote parking assistance and adaptive cruise assist plus.
A panoramic glass roof with adjustable transparency is available as a no-cost option.
Pricing
Audi RS 5 Sedan: R2,430,000
Audi RS 5 Avant: R2,470,000
