New Audi RS5 PHEV ready to bring the horizon into your lap
Published on 20th April 2026 at 17:04
Those with the need will salivate merely at the thought of sharing time and travel
with the new Audi RS 5 Sedan and Audi RS 5 Avant, both high-performance plug-in
hybrids that will be available from €115,000, with first deliveries expected from July
2026.
To coincide with their arrival, the Audi Ireland RS 5 Roadshow kicks off from Friday
17 th of April for two weeks and will visit all Audi Sport dealerships in Ireland.
This is Audi Sport’s first-ever high-performance plug-in hybrid delivering 470 kW
(639 PS) of system output, with a top speed akin to something out of NASA’s stable
and delivers up to 87 km of electric driving only driving (WLTP).
A world-first quattro system with Dynamic Torque Control in the rear transaxle
brings handling to a new level. Identifiable RS design elements include wider
bodywork, darkened Matrix LED headlights, an RS sport exhaust system, and bold
interior detailing.
Drivers will love this new RS 5, which combines true RS DNA with advanced hybrid
technology, with definite appeal to those seeking winding roads, long-distance
journeys, or everyday urban driving, the RS 5 delivers agility, precision, and
efficiency.
Tekkies will nerd out at the electrified powertrain paired to an improved 2.9-litre
twin-turbo V6 engine with a 130kW electric motor, producing a total output of
470kW (639 PS). Power is delivered via a hybridised eight-speed gearbox and a
newly developed quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control, enabling
electromechanical torque vectoring at the rear for the first time in a production
model.
A completely redesigned rear transaxle uses an actuator, overdrive gears, and a
differential to distribute torque variably between the rear wheels depending on
driving conditions. A control unit recalculates torque distribution every 5
milliseconds (200 Hz), ensuring immediate and precise response. This system
enhances both driving dynamics and stability, maximising performance, and control.
The RS 5’s driving characteristics are defined by the precise interaction of its chassis
components, including optimised RS-specific front and rear axles, RS sport
suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers, RS-tuned steering, and 20- and 21-inch
wheels with specially developed tyres. The twin-valve damper technology enables
both comfort and sportiness, reducing pitch and roll while responding quickly to
changing road conditions.
Visually, the RS 5 delivers a style all its own. Some nine centimetres wider than the
base A5 at both front and rear, it features flared wheel arches and a muscular stance.
The front is dominated by a three-dimensional Singleframe grille with a honeycomb
structure and integrated air curtains. At the rear, a distinctive diffuser and matte oval
tailpipes complete the dynamic look. Darkened Matrix LED headlights with a
checkered-flag daytime running light signature reinforce its motorsport-inspired
design.
The optional Audi Sport package enhances performance and appearance with
bespoke front and rear bumpers, two-tone 21-inch wheels. Interior highlights include
contrast stitching in Serpentine green and brass, alongside extensive personalisation
options such as Bedford green metallic paint. RS ceramic brakes with bronze
callipers and carbon camouflage elements complete the package.
A new Audi driving experience function comes as standard, allowing drivers to
analyse routes and performance data via the 14.5-inch MMI touch display. On track,
users can record sector times and review performance metrics, including drift angle
when using RS torque rear mode.
