Audi Sport has completed the first real-world driving evaluation of the new RS 5 plug-in hybrid. The test took place on the Circuit de Marrakech and through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. It marks the first time a high-performance PHEV has carried the RS badge.
Highlights
- The RS 5 pairs a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 with a 130 kW electric motor, producing 470 kW (639 PS) of system output and 825 Nm of torque.
- A new electromechanical torque-vectoring rear axle replaces the previous mechanical quattro system, enabling faster and more precise torque distribution.
- Twin-valve shock absorbers debut on the RS sport suspension, reducing pitch and roll while adapting to varied surfaces.
- The RS 5 can operate in all-electric mode, offering silent driving in low-speed environments before the V6 engages on demand.
Powertrain: First RS Plug-In Hybrid
The new Audi RS 5 is the first Audi Sport model to use a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 works alongside a 130 kW electric motor. Together, they produce 470 kW (639 PS) of total system output. Peak torque reaches 825 Nm.
The electric motor provides an immediate boost during acceleration. As a result, throttle response is notably sharper than in a conventional setup. The combustion engine and electric motor combine seamlessly for sustained power on long climbs and switchback roads.
Quattro With Dynamic Torque Control
At the core of the RS 5’s handling is a redesigned quattro drivetrain. It features Dynamic Torque Control with electromechanical torque vectoring at the rear axle. This system transfers torque between the rear wheels with high speed and precision.
On the Circuit de Marrakech, the RS 5 navigated tight curves, slalom sections, and drift zones. The torque distribution adapted continuously to each driving scenario. Even during rapid load changes, the vehicle remained balanced and composed.
Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport, said the electromechanical torque vectoring works with the RS sport suspension to use the vehicle’s weight effectively. He noted the result is a car that drives with more precision and stability while still feeling agile.
RS Sport Suspension in Mountain Testing
The route from the circuit to the Atlas Mountains tested the RS 5’s suspension across dramatically different terrain. The RS sport suspension uses twin-valve shock absorbers. These represent a first for the RS lineup.
On uneven lower-altitude roads, the dampers absorbed small surface imperfections effectively. At higher elevations, they responded instantly to body movement through rough terrain. Pitch and roll were noticeably reduced across all surfaces. Steering remained precise even through tight mountain passes.
In all-electric mode, the RS 5 traveled through mountain villages near-silently. However, when roads became more demanding, the full hybrid powertrain engaged to deliver power reserves for steep climbs.
Design and Real-World Validation
The Morocco evaluation also showcased the RS 5’s exterior design language in varied lighting conditions. Broad shoulders, flared fenders, and a three-dimensional Singleframe grille define the body. Additionally, darkened matrix LED headlights feature a checkered-flag daytime-running-light signature.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasized that the Morocco test demonstrated how the RS 5 handles sun, dust, and challenging roads. He described it as validation that the first high-performance PHEV from Audi Sport performs reliably under real-world conditions.
The RS 5 is available in both sedan and Avant body styles. Preliminary fuel consumption figures (weighted, combined) are 4.3–3.8 l/100 km for the sedan and 4.5–3.9 l/100 km for the Avant.
Sign up for our popular weekly email to catch all the latest EV news!
