Audi will unveil the high performance RS 5 at the Geneva Motorshow.
Under the bonnet is a superb hand-built, high-revving 4.0-litre direct injection V8 engine which delivers maximum power of 331kW at 8,250rpm. Peak torque of 430Nm is delivered between 4,000rpm and 6,000rpm.
Audi says the beautifully styled RS 5 has a top speed of 280km/h and takes just 4.6 seconds to go from zero to 100km/h. As you would expect from the German giant, fuel consumption is impressively low at 10.8l/100kms.
Drive is to all four wheels via Audi’s twin-clutch seven-speed S tronic transmission.
Debuting in the RS 5 is the latest generation of Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system with a compact and lightweight crown-gear center differential. Now up to 70 per cent of the power can be transmitted to the front wheels and 85 per cent to the rear – the standard configuration is 40:60 front-rear.
RS 5 models feature firmer sports suspension with a 20mm lower ride height than standard A5 models and run unique 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheels. Massive 365mm front disc brakes have high-gloss black calipers with RS logos or you can option 380mm ceramic-carbon fibre discs.
Naturally the RS 5 comes with Audi’s driver-select three-mode drive system. The standard settings are comfort, auto and dynamic, but if the RS 5 is fitted with the optional MMI navigation system, a fourth mode is available which allows the driver to customize their own profile.
On the outside, numerous changes identify the RS 5 – including extra air intakes, flared fenders, a rear spoiler that rises at speeds over 80km/h and an extensive underbody aero kit.
Inside is the usual Audi sporty opulence with extensive Alcantara/leather trim and racy black instrumentation with white lettering. The driver information system includes an oil temperature gauge and a lap timer for recording racetrack laps.
Extensive customization of the interior is available.
The RS 5 goes on sale in Europe within the next few months however Australian details have not been released