Audi Sport has unveiled the RS 5 as its first high-performance plug-in hybrid, combining a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with a 130 kW electric motor. The system produces a combined 470 kW (639 PS) and 825 Nm of torque. Available in both Sedan and Avant body styles, the RS 5 also introduces a world-first electromechanical torque vectoring system in a production vehicle. European orders open in Q1 2026, with deliveries expected by summer 2026.
Highlights
- Combined system output of 470 kW (639 PS) from a 375 kW twin-turbo V6 and 130 kW electric motor, with 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds
- World-first electromechanical torque vectoring in the rear transaxle recalculates torque distribution every 5 milliseconds at 200 Hz
- All-electric range of up to 84 km (87 km in the city) from a 25.9 kWh battery with 400-volt architecture
- New quattro with Dynamic Torque Control pairs a preloaded center differential with rear torque vectoring for variable 70/30 to 15/85 front-to-rear split
Electrified Powertrain Architecture
The RS 5 marks Audi Sport’s entry into plug-in hybrid territory with a modular powertrain layout. At its core sits an improved 2.9-liter V6 TFSI engine producing 375 kW (510 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. That represents a 44 kW increase over the previous generation, according to Audi.
The V6 uses a modified Miller cycle, where the intake valves close earlier to improve efficiency under partial load. Two variable-geometry turbochargers provide boost through piping optimized for high pressure and minimal losses. Additionally, Audi has increased fuel injection pressure to improve efficiency while reducing emissions.
Water-to-air intercoolers appear for the first time in an RS model. These lower intake temperatures under sustained high loads. Combined, Audi says the V6 delivers more power while consuming up to 20 percent less fuel under high loads than its predecessor.
Electric Motor and Battery Specifications
Paired with the V6 is a 130 kW (177 PS) electric motor producing 460 Nm of torque. It features an external-rotor design, meaning the stator sits inside the moving rotor. This layout increases the interaction area between the two components, resulting in higher torque output, improved cooling, and greater overall efficiency.
The electric motor also starts the combustion engine, eliminating the need for a conventional 12-volt starter motor. It provides improved throttle response and quicker acceleration off the line.
Power comes from a 25.9 kWh battery (22 kWh net) operating on a 400-volt electrical system. Key battery specifications include:
- All-electric range: Up to 84 km EAER (87 km city driving)
- AC charging: Up to 11 kW, reaching 100 percent in 2.5 hours
- Improved cell chemistry: Better power output at low states of charge and in extreme temperatures
- Torque vectoring support: Sends up to 8 kW to the permanent-magnet synchronous motor in the rear transaxle
Intelligent thermal management keeps the battery at optimal temperatures. In RS sport and RS torque rear modes, the system actively cools the battery to 20 degrees Celsius. Pumps, fans, and heat exchangers work together to maintain consistent power delivery under repeated maximum load.
Quattro with Dynamic Torque Control
The RS 5 introduces a completely new all-wheel-drive system. Audi calls it quattro with Dynamic Torque Control, and it combines three key elements: a hybridized eight-speed tiptronic transmission, a preloaded center differential, and electromechanical torque vectoring in the rear transaxle.
Center Differential with Preload
The center differential distributes torque between the front and rear axles with a variable split ranging from 70/30 to 15/85 percent. For the first time in an Audi Sport model, the differential features a preload that keeps it at least partially locked at all times.
This preload improves turn-in response and reduces understeer when the driver lifts off the throttle before a corner. As a result, power transfers to the wheels faster during rapid transitions between on-throttle and off-throttle driving.
Rear Electromechanical Torque Vectoring
The rear transaxle houses what Audi describes as a world first in a production vehicle. A water-cooled permanent-magnet electric motor with 8 kW and 40 Nm of output serves as the actuator. Overdrive gears and a conventional differential with low lock percentage work alongside it.
Key torque vectoring specifications include:
- Response time: 15 milliseconds for full torque deployment
- Maximum torque differential: Up to 2,000 Nm between rear wheels
- Update frequency: 200 Hz (recalculated every 5 milliseconds)
- Bidirectional operation: Functions under acceleration, coasting, and braking
A central driving dynamics controller (HCP1) continuously analyzes inputs including steering angle, throttle position, brake pressure, longitudinal and transverse G forces, yaw rate, slip angle, speed, and estimated surface friction. It then calculates the target differential torque for the rear wheels.
During straight-line driving, the system splits torque evenly between both rear wheels. In corners, it directs more torque to the outer wheel at corner exit to help rotate the vehicle while maintaining stability.
Chassis and Braking Hardware
The RS 5 rides on RS-specific five-link suspension front and rear. The front axle received new joints, links, and rubber bushings for improved tuning. Meanwhile, Audi developed the rear axle entirely from scratch to accommodate the new torque vectoring system.
The RS sport suspension features twin-valve shock absorbers that independently control compression and rebound. This technology reduces pitch and roll while allowing the dampers to respond quickly to changing road conditions. Audi Sport tuned the dampers using a hydro pulse test facility that simulates forces beyond real-world driving conditions.
The unibody is 10 percent stiffer than the base A5 model. Steering uses a 13:1 ratio that Audi says is significantly more direct than the standard car.
Brake System Options
- Standard 20-inch RS steel brakes: 420 mm front discs, 400 mm rear discs, with black or red calipers
- Optional 21-inch RS ceramic brakes: 440 mm front discs, 410 mm rear discs, approximately 30 kg lighter than steel, with black or red calipers
- Segment-first rear ceramic discs complement the front ceramic setup
- Stopping distance: 30.6 meters from 100 km/h with ceramic brakes equipped
The integrated brake regulation system (iBRS) operates through brake-by-wire and blends regenerative braking with friction braking. A new ABS software version 2.0 was specifically tuned for the RS 5’s steel and ceramic brake options.
Forged 21-inch RS wheels in a six-twin-spoke design are standard. Rear wheels are wider than the fronts (10.5 J versus 10 J) for a larger contact patch.
Driving Modes and Energy Management
The RS 5 offers multiple drive select modes that span from quiet electric commuting to track-focused performance. Comfort and balanced modes support all-electric driving for city and longer-distance travel.
Dynamic mode increases rear bias at corner exit and reduces yaw damping at the limit. RS sport mode is tuned for maximum lateral acceleration with neutral handling. RS torque rear mode directs maximum torque to the outside rear wheel for controlled oversteer on closed courses.
In RS sport and RS torque rear modes, the system holds the battery state of charge at 90 percent to ensure full electric power is always available. In dynamic mode, the battery stays above 20 percent to support the boost function.
Boost Function
A dedicated button deploys maximum system output for 10 seconds. The gearbox automatically selects the optimal gear during boost. If activated during electric-only driving, the V6 starts instantly and the exhaust valves open simultaneously. A countdown in the driver display shows remaining boost time.
Energy Recovery
The RS 5 operates in two modes: EV and Hybrid. In EV mode, it runs on electric power alone. Hybrid mode allows automatic operation or manual state-of-charge targeting through a digital slider. Regeneration rates can be adjusted in three stages using steering wheel paddles during electric driving. Predictive operating strategies optimize energy use along the planned route.
Design and Interior
The RS 5 is approximately nine centimeters wider than the base A5, with flared fenders at both ends. The front features a three-dimensional Singleframe grille with honeycomb pattern and Air Curtains. At the rear, a sculpted diffuser with vertical fins houses centrally positioned matte oval exhaust tips.
Optional darkened Matrix LED headlights feature a checkered-flag daytime running light signature. Second-generation digital OLED rear lights include communication light capability that can warn other drivers of accident and breakdown sites.
The cockpit centers on the Audi MMI Panorama display, consisting of an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and 14.5-inch MMI touch display. A 10.9-inch passenger display is standard. The Audi driving experience function records performance data including lap times, sector times, G forces, and drift angles.
The interior offers five design options. The base configuration uses leather-free Cascade cloth and Dinamica microfiber containing up to 47 percent recycled polyester. Genuine leather interiors in red or gray are available as alternatives.
Audi Sport Package
An optional Audi Sport package adds larger front air intakes, a more dynamic rear diffuser, and exclusive two-tone diamond-cut 21-inch wheels. The package raises the top speed to 285 km/h and includes an RS sport exhaust with matte black tailpipes.
Interior upgrades include brass-colored accents and contrast stitching in Serpentine green — a color used for the first time. Bedford green metallic exterior paint is exclusively available with the package. Optional ceramic brakes come in an exclusive bronze caliper color.
A Carbon Camouflage package is available only with the Audi Sport package. It includes forged carbon elements on the exterior and matte Carbon Camouflage decorative inlays inside.
Pricing and Availability
In Germany, the RS 5 Sedan starts at €106,200 and the RS 5 Avant at €107,850 with 470 kW of system output. Both models are built in Neckarsulm, Germany. European orders open in Q1 2026, with deliveries expected in summer 2026.
U.S. market specifications, including performance figures, pricing, and EPA-rated fuel economy, will be announced closer to the American on-sale date. Certain lighting features such as matrix LED headlights and communication light will not be available in the U.S. due to regulatory differences.
“The RS 5 and its innovative drive concept mark the beginning of a new era for our RS models,” said Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport. “They bring a new level of dynamics to the driving characteristics our customers love and further improve day-to-day use value thanks to all-electric driving and innovative technologies.”
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