The new Audi RS5 promises over 600 HP and Plug-In Hybrid technology
Goodbye, RS4. Welcome, RS5: The New Era of the 600 HP Plug-In Hybrid from Audi Sport
Ingolstadt is preparing to change the rules of the game. After decades in which the RS4 was the symbol of the performance estate, Audi is moving to a new nomenclature and, more importantly, a new drive philosophy. The future RS5 is not just a successor, but the first plug-in electrified "athlete" from the Audi Sport division.
Audi has officially started the countdown to the debut of the new generation RS5, releasing the first teaser images that confirm what fans have long anticipated: electrification has arrived at the Neckarsulm division. The name change (from RS4 to RS5) is part of the brand's new strategy, where odd numbers are reserved for combustion and hybrid models, while even numbers will designate exclusively electric vehicles.
The heart of the system: V6 biturbo and a massive electric "boost"
Although Mercedes-AMG has chosen a 4-cylinder engine for the new C63, Audi has decided to keep the mechanical soul that made the previous generation famous. The new RS5 will continue to use the 2.9-liter biturbo V6 unit, but it will work in symbiosis with a powerful electric motor.
According to recently leaked data, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system will propel the car to a combined output of around 600 horsepower (some sources even indicate the 650 hp threshold for top-end versions). This configuration not only brings raw performance, but also unexpected efficiency:
- Electric autonomy: A battery of approximately 20.7 kWh will allow a purely electric range of up to 100 km, ideal for urban commuting.
- Instant torque: The electric motor will eliminate any turbine lag, delivering lightning-fast acceleration that rivals the BMW M3 Competition.
Aggressive design and redesigned exhausts
Visually, the new RS5 promises to be an imposing presence. Teasers and spy shots reveal generously flared wings, a wider “Singleframe” front grille and massive air intakes. A notable change occurs at the rear: the two oval exhaust tips, a traditional RS signature, appear to have been moved further towards the center of the air diffuser, a necessary adaptation to make room for the battery pack mounted under the trunk.
Inside, the cabin will be a mix of luxury and technology, with materials such as Dinamica microfiber and carbon fiber inserts, all centered around Audi's new digital dashboard architecture.
How much will the new RS5 cost? Estimated price analysis
The move to plug-in hybrid technology and the addition of complex components (battery, electric motor, additional cooling systems) will inevitably lead to an increase in the list price.
| Model | Starting Price (Current/Estimated) | Difference |
| Outgoing RS4 Avant (B9) | approx. €87,000 | — |
| All-New RS5 (2026) - Sedan/Avant | approx. €105,000 - €115,000 | +20-25% |
Why this increase?
- PHEV technology: The hybrid system is expensive, but offers tax benefits in many European countries (reduced or zero taxes).
- Market positioning: The main rival, the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance, starts at over €115,000. Audi will try to remain competitive, but offer a superior technology package to the old generation.
- Supercar Performance: With an estimated 0-100 km/h time of under 3.4 seconds, the new RS5 enters performance territory previously reserved for much more expensive models.
Conclusion
The new Audi RS5 is not just a new car; it's a test of loyalty for the brand's fans. Will the extra power and electric efficiency make up for the nearly 2.5 tons the car will weigh due to the batteries? We'll find out very soon, with the official launch scheduled for this very week.