INGOLSTADT: The new Audi RS 5 is Audi Sport’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) – with RS DNA and a hybridised eight-speed gearbox.
For the first time at Audi Sport, the powertrain pairs a 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 outputting 375kW (510PS) and 600Nm of torque, and a 130kW electric motor.
The total system output is up to 470kW (639PS) and 825Nm of torque.
They are joined by bespoke RS sport suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers, a completely new quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control, and world-first electro-mechanical torque vectoring at the rear.
The twin-valve technology allows the shock absorbers to provide both a very comfortable ride and an extremely sporty driving experience.
It noticeably reduces pitch and roll, and means the dampers respond very quickly to changing road conditions.
The new centre differential has a preload to always remain partially locked, managing longitudinal torque distribution.
Transverse torque distribution at the rear is provided by a new differential that can shift torque between the wheels in milliseconds.
The result: exceptionally agile and composed driving.
“The A5 model series’ new pinnace is our first high-performance plug-in hybrid. Our newly developed quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control is the world’s first electro-mechanical torque vectoring system in a production car,” says Audi CEO Gernot Döllner.
The RS 5 PHEV delivers motorsport performance for the road.
Measuring around 90mm wider than the base-model A5 at the front and rear with flared fenders, it has a muscular stance.
The three-dimensional Singleframe with a honey-comb grille and Air Curtains to control airflow dominate the front.
At the rear, the aerodynamic diffuser and the RS sport exhaust system’s matte oval tailpipes ensure a sporty finish.
The darkened Matrix LED headlights and their digital day- time-running-light signature in a checkered-flag design reinforce the car’s purposeful appearance.
The standouts include optimised and RS-specific front and rear axles, RS-tuned steering, large 20-inch and 21-inch wheels shod in specifically tailored tyres, and powerful steel or ceramic brakes.
The new Audi driving experience function is standard equipment.
It enables users to view detailed analysis of the routes driven, displayed on the 14.5-inch MMI touch display.
At the racetrack, they can also analyse and store sector times.
When using the drive select mode RS torque rear, the system also offers statistics such as the drift angle achieved.
The RS 5 family is built in Neckarsulm, Germany.
