Audi has retained the 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine for the new RS5. In the version without an electric motor, it produces 503 hp, which is 59 hp more than its predecessor. The engine works with an 8-speed "automatic transmission" Tiptronic and the Quattro all-wheel drive with torque vectoring on the rear axle. In RS Torque Rear mode, the focus is on the rear wheels - it is intended for use off public roads. The transmission can distribute up to 85% of the torque to the rear or up to 70% to the front depending on driving conditions.
The main innovation - an electric motor with 174 hp. In total, the hybrid system delivers 630 hp and 825 Nm. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 3.6 seconds, and the top speed is 285 km/h.
Audi RS5 Avant (2026)
The battery with a capacity of 25.9 kWh enables driving without starting the engine. In the urban cycle, the electric range is up to 87 km. Complete charging takes about 2.5 hours.
However, electrification has affected the weight. The RS5 Avant station wagon weighs 2,370 kg - 625 kg more than the previous version. In addition, it is 280 kg heavier than the larger Audi RS6 Avant with a petrol V8 without a hybrid system. The additional weight is not only explained by the hybrid system but also by the extended dimensions of the base A5 model, which has replaced the A4.
Audi RS5 (2026)
The appearance has become more aggressive. The body has been widened by 9 cm at the front and rear compared to the standard A5. At the front, there are functional air intakes, and at the back, oval exhaust pipes that have been moved closer to the center of the bumper. 20- or 21-inch wheels are available, behind which optional carbon-ceramic brakes can be found. Matrix LED headlights with darker graphics, black Audi logos, and OLED lights with a checkered flag design emphasize the status of the top version.
The interior has changed moderately. Three screens and touch-sensitive control panels have been retained. Sports seats with pronounced lateral support and diamond stitching, with electric adjustment and massage function have been installed. The steering wheel is covered in leather and has flattened sections at the top and bottom. RS buttons allow changing driving modes and activating the boost function for 10 seconds to temporarily increase power.
Audi RS5 (2026)
The base price of the sedan (it is effectively a five-door liftback) is 106,200 euros in Germany, while the Avant is 107,850 euros. For comparison: a BMW M3 with all-wheel drive and 530 hp costs from 107,600 euros, while the BMW M3 Touring is available from 108,900 euros. The production of the new RS5 will be located in Neckarsulm.
Orders in Europe will begin in the first quarter of 2026, with market launch planned for the summer.
Source: Audi
