Stunning performance is at the heart of the new RS5 from Audi, a plug in hybrid with a mighty 639PS at the command of the right foot and a vehicle with a maximum speed of 285kph (177mph). This is the world’s first Quattro with Dynamic Torque Control in the rear axle which brings handling to a new level. This newcomer will have the ability to master any situation with sheer agility and impressive precision and a vehicle which can cover an extremely wide spread of driving dynamics, capable of everyday driving or potent performance. This is a first for Audi Sport as the powertrain pairs a 2.9 litre twin turbo V6 engine with 510PS and a 130kW electric motor. The battery cells are integrated beneath the boot floor and they output more at low states of charge as well as in extreme temperatures than the earlier generation. The battery not only powers the traction motor as it also sends up to 8 kW to the permanent magnet synchronous motor in the torque vectoring unit. The high voltage battery is charged to 100 percent in just 2.5 hours. When using RS Sport or RS torque rear mode, the battery is actively cooled to an optimal 20 degrees Celsius.
The suspension set up of the new RS5 is another key element, there are optimised RS specific front and rear axles, RS Sport suspension with twin valve shock absorbers, RS tuned steering and a choice of wheel sizes, 20 or 21 inch. The tyres fitted have been specially tailored and braking power is courtesy of steel or ceramic brakes. The twin valve technology permits the shock absorbers to provide a comfy ride and of course a sporty drive experience, something which is right at the heart of Audi models. There is an optional Audi Sport package for the RS5 Avant and Saloon, it adds exclusive elements such as dynamic front and rear bumpers as well as two tone diamond cut pattern black 21 inch wheels with matt accents.
The interior is exclusive featuring contrast stitching in Serpentine green metallic and the package offers a very wide range of customisation options, including Bedford green metallic paint, RS ceramic brakes with bronze coloured callipers and carbon camouflage elements to add the finishing touch. Standard is a new Audi driving experience function, this enables the driver to view detailed analysis of the routes driven, displayed on a 14.5 inch MMI touch display. For example, if the RS5 is used at a race circuit, sector times can be stored. When using the drive selector mode RS torque rear, the system also delivers statistics such as the drift angle achieved. This is not only a superb vehicle for the roads, but one which would be equally at home on a race circuit; what a vehicle to take to a Track Day. The RS5 is built in Neckarsuim in Germany and the projected date for first deliveries to customers is expected this June.
In relation to Audi, I have been asked several times as to what the letters RS mean; they are taken from the German words renn sport, which is translated as racing sport. The RS models are the company’s highest performers and are positioned directly above the S specification models. The first Audi to carry RS badging was the RS2 Avant which appeared in 1994.
Ian Lynas