Audi has unveiled the new RS5 as the top performance model in its A5 range, introducing a plug-in hybrid powertrain and discontinuing the coupé body style in favor of sedan and wagon variants.
The latest RS5 replaces the previous RS4 in Audi’s performance lineup, following the company’s brief renaming strategy that aligned model numbers differently for electric and combustion vehicles. The new generation marks the first time the RS5 badge has been applied to an estate model and the first high-performance plug-in hybrid developed by Audi Sport.
Power comes from a combination of a 2.9-litre V6 biturbo petrol engine producing 375 kW and a 130 kW electric motor integrated into an eight-speed transmission, delivering a combined system output of 470 kW and up to 825 Nm of torque. The electric motor alone contributes as much as 460 Nm, enhancing acceleration and responsiveness.
“When taking performance and fuel consumption together, the Audi RS 5 sets benchmarks in its class and offers sportiness and high efficiency without compromise,” Audi said, noting that the electric system also improves throttle response and eliminates the need for a conventional starter motor.
Unlike typical plug-in hybrids, Audi Sport developed a dedicated external-rotor electric motor for the RS5 rather than using an existing component. The design allows a larger interaction area between rotor and stator, improving torque output, cooling and overall efficiency.
The hybrid system is supported by a 25.9 kWh battery (22 kWh net) operating on a 400-volt architecture. Audi estimates an electric-only range of up to 84 kilometres, or up to 87 kilometres in urban conditions. However, the model emphasizes hybrid performance, using electric power primarily to boost acceleration and handling rather than maximize zero-emission driving.
A newly developed rear-axle transmission introduces electromechanical torque vectoring in combination with all-wheel drive, distributing power between the rear wheels to enhance cornering dynamics. Up to 8 kW of battery power can be directed to this system during performance driving modes.
“They contribute to acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in an impressive 3.6 seconds,” Audi said, referring to the hybrid system’s role in delivering launch performance and traction.
Charging is limited to AC at up to 11 kW, enabling a full recharge in about 2.5 hours. In dedicated RS driving modes, the vehicle maintains a high state of charge—around 90%—to ensure maximum electric assistance for performance features such as torque vectoring.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner described the model as a milestone for the brand’s performance division. “The A5 model series’ new pinnacle is our first high-performance plug-in hybrid,” he said. “The sophisticated technical interplay between combustion engine and electric power brings performance and efficiency together in a new way at Audi.”
The RS5 will be produced in Neckarsulm, Germany, and will be available to order in Europe in the first quarter of 2026, with deliveries expected to begin in summer. Pricing in Germany starts at €106,200 for the sedan and €107,850 for the Avant wagon.