The latest Audi RS 5 marks a significant turning point for Audi Sport. No longer just a fast version of a compact executive car, this new-generation RS 5 evolves into a plug-in hybrid powerhouse that blends electrified performance and the practicality of an estate, if you choose to buy that version. It effectively takes over the mantle previously held by the RS 4, but raises the bar dramatically in terms of power, technology and capability.
Available in both sedan and estate guise — at the core of the new RS 5 is a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with an electric motor as part of a plug-in hybrid system. This combination produces a staggering 630bhp and 800Nm of torque, pushing the RS 5 firmly into supercar-rivalling territory. The integration of electric assistance is not simply about efficiency — it plays a crucial role in enhancing throttle response and delivering instant torque, filling in any gaps from the combustion engine and creating relentless acceleration across the rev range.
Performance figures underline just how serious this estate is. The RS 5 can accelerate from 0 to 100kmph in just 3.6 seconds, a time that would have been reserved for dedicated sports cars not long ago. With the optional performance package, top speed climbs to 285kmph. These numbers are remarkable considering this is a spacious five-door estate capable of handling family duties and long-distance touring with ease.
The plug-in hybrid system also introduces genuine electric usability. A 25.9kWh battery pack enables an electric-only driving range of up to around 80km under ideal conditions. This means shorter daily commutes can be completed without using fuel at all, offering improved efficiency and reduced emissions when compared to traditional high-performance petrol models. The dual nature of the powertrain allows drivers to switch seamlessly between quiet, electric cruising and full-performance hybrid mode when the road opens up.
Of course, adding a battery and electric motor increases overall weight. The new RS 5 weighs in at more than 2.3 tonnes, making it heavier than many rivals. However, Audi has focused heavily on chassis tuning to ensure the added mass does not compromise driving enjoyment. The latest iteration of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system incorporates advanced torque vectoring technology, capable of distributing power precisely between the rear wheels. This enhances cornering agility, improves traction during hard acceleration and increases stability under braking.
The suspension setup has also been engineered to balance comfort and performance. Adaptive dampers allow the RS 5 to transform its character depending on the selected drive mode. In comfort settings, it delivers refined ride quality suitable for long motorway journeys. Switch to a sportier configuration and the car tightens up, sharpening responses and reducing body roll to maximise confidence through bends.
Visually, the RS 5 Avant stands out with a more aggressive and muscular design language. Flared wheel arches, sculpted bumpers and large oval exhaust outlets signal its performance credentials instantly. It rides on staggered wheel — measuring 20-inch up front and 21-inch at the back. The wide stance and purposeful detailing give it road presence without straying too far from Audi’s understated styling ethos. Despite its high-performance nature, it remains recognisably practical — a car that can carry luggage, shopping or sports equipment without compromise.
Inside, the cabin reflects Audi’s technology-focused approach. A fully digital driver display provides performance data alongside navigation and vehicle information, while a large 14.1-inch central infotainment screen manages connectivity and media functions. Premium materials and supportive sports seats reinforce the RS identity, yet comfort remains a priority. There is ample space for passengers, and the estate layout ensures impressive cargo capacity for everyday use.
The RS 5 now competes in a fiercely contested performance estate segment, facing rivals that aim to combine family practicality with track-ready speed. However, its plug-in hybrid configuration gives it a unique edge. While others rely purely on internal combustion engines, the RS 5’s electrified boost delivers both headline-grabbing power figures and the ability to drive emissions-free for shorter journeys.
Ultimately, the new Audi RS 5 Avant represents a bold step forward for Audi Sport. It embraces electrification without diluting performance, offering supercar-level acceleration wrapped in a body style designed for real life. For drivers who want extreme pace without sacrificing usability, space or comfort, this latest RS 5 proves that high performance and everyday practicality no longer need to be mutually exclusive.
