The 2027 Audi RS5 is Audi Sport’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid sedan. It combines 639 PS of system power, meaningful electric range, and a new rear-axle torque vectoring system in a sharp liftback body. This is a fast, usable performance car that works equally well for daily driving and enthusiastic weekend use.
1. Overview
Audi has moved the RS5 to a new generation with PHEV power and a focus on the sedan (liftback) and Avant bodies. The sedan version offers a slightly lower weight than the wagon while delivering the same performance hardware and advanced chassis technology.
Core positioning
- Target buyer: Drivers who want serious performance with daily usability in a sedan format
- Standout feature: First RS performance model with strong electric range and electromechanical rear torque vectoring
- Body style: Liftback sedan (Avant wagon also available)
Key Specifications
| Specification |
Value |
| Powertrain |
2.9L twin-turbo V6 PHEV + electric motor |
| System output |
639 PS / 825 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h |
3.6 seconds |
| Top speed |
250 km/h (285 km/h with Performance pack) |
| Electric range (WLTP) |
Up to 80–84 km |
| Battery |
25.9 kWh gross / 22 kWh usable |
| Drivetrain |
quattro with Dynamic Torque Control |
| Weight |
2,355 kg |
| Boot capacity |
Practical liftback design |
| Starting price (Europe) |
€106,200 (~$125,000 USD) |
2. History and Generations
The RS5 name started in 2010 as a V8 coupe. The 2017 generation brought the 2.9 V6 and Sportback option. The 2027 model is the largest change: new platform, PHEV powertrain, rear torque vectoring, and a shift to sedan and Avant bodies only.
Powertrain Evolution
| Generation |
Powertrain |
System Power |
| 2010–2015 |
4.2L V8 |
450 PS |
| 2017–2025 |
2.9L twin-turbo V6 |
450 PS |
| 2027– |
2.9L twin-turbo V6 PHEV |
639 PS |
Body Style Changes
| Generation |
Available Bodies |
Notes |
| 2010–2015 |
Coupe only |
Pure coupe focus |
| 2017–2025 |
Coupe + Sportback |
Added practicality with Sportback |
| 2027– |
Sedan + Avant |
No coupe; sedan and wagon focus |
Price and Platform Shift
| Generation |
Approx. Starting Price (USD) |
Key Change |
| 2010–2015 |
$70,000–80,000 |
First RS5, V8 character |
| 2017–2025 |
$75,000–85,000 |
Lighter V6 generation |
| 2027– |
~$125,000+ |
New platform + PHEV power |
3. Design and Styling
The 2027 RS5 sedan features a wider, more aggressive stance with flared fenders, a large honeycomb grille, slim Matrix LED headlights, and a sporty liftback tail.
Exterior Design Highlights
| Area |
Key Features |
Benefit |
| Front |
Large grille, deep intakes |
Better cooling for hybrid system |
| Side |
Pronounced fender flares |
Wider track and planted look |
| Rear |
Liftback design, quad exhausts |
Practical access + strong RS look |
4. Powertrain and Performance
The updated 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 works with an integrated electric motor. Total system output is 639 PS and 825 Nm. The electric motor provides instant torque fill.
Powertrain Breakdown
| Component |
Power |
Torque |
| 2.9L V6 |
510 PS |
600 Nm |
| Electric motor |
177 PS |
460 Nm |
| Combined |
639 PS |
825 Nm |
Drive Mode Characteristics
| Mode |
Electric Role |
Driving Feel |
| Comfort / EV |
Main power source |
Quiet and efficient |
| Dynamic |
Blended support |
Sharper response |
| RS / Torque Rear |
Maximum boost |
Playful rotation and traction |
The new Dynamic Torque Control system on the rear axle improves cornering agility and allows more adjustable handling than previous RS models.
5. What’s New
Major Changes from Previous Generation
| Area |
Previous Generation |
2027 RS5 |
| Powertrain |
450 PS petrol V6 |
639 PS PHEV |
| Rear axle |
Standard quattro |
Electromechanical torque vectoring |
| Platform |
B9 |
New generation |
| Body styles |
Coupe + Sportback |
Sedan + Avant only |
| Weight |
Lighter |
2,355 kg (sedan) |
6. Dimensions and Practicality
Dimensions and Space
| Measurement |
Value |
Notes |
| Length |
4,896 mm |
Longer wheelbase improves rear space |
| Width |
1,952 mm |
Wider track for stability |
| Weight |
2,355 kg |
Slightly lighter than the Avant |
| Boot access |
Liftback |
Good practicality for a performance sedan |
| Rear legroom |
Improved |
Noticeable gain over previous generation |
The liftback design offers convenient access to the boot. While not as spacious as the Avant wagon, it provides usable space for weekend luggage and daily needs.
7. Interior and Technology
The cabin features a large curved digital display, supportive RS sport seats, and a driver-focused layout with physical drive mode controls.
Interior Technology
| Feature |
Availability |
Notes |
| Curved digital display |
Standard |
Performance data and clear graphics |
| RS drive modes |
Standard |
Includes dedicated Torque Rear mode |
| Premium audio |
Optional |
Bang & Olufsen available |
| Head-up display |
Optional |
Projects speed and navigation |
Front seats offer excellent support for both long journeys and spirited driving. Rear space has improved compared with the previous RS5 generation.
8. Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety Systems
| System |
Availability |
Function |
| Adaptive cruise + lane centering |
Standard |
Maintains distance and lane position |
| Emergency assist |
Standard |
Intervenes if driver is unresponsive |
| Matrix LED headlights |
Standard |
Automatic high beam and lighting |
| Carbon-ceramic brakes |
Optional |
Maximum fade resistance |
The advanced quattro system with rear torque vectoring adds strong active stability in all conditions.
9. Pricing and Ownership
European pricing for the sedan starts at €106,200. US pricing has not been announced.
Cost Overview
| Item |
Details |
Notes |
| Base price (Europe) |
€106,200 (~$125,000 USD) |
Sedan |
| Performance pack |
Significant extra cost |
Unlocks 285 km/h and more equipment |
| Insurance |
High |
Performance hybrid rating |
| Tyres and servicing |
Higher than standard models |
Due to power and hybrid system |
| Residual value |
Expected to be strong |
Desirable low-volume RS model |
10. Trim Levels and Variants
Trim Levels
| Trim |
Main Additions |
Best For |
| RS5 (base) |
20-inch wheels, full RS equipment |
Balanced performance sedan |
| Carbon Black |
Gloss black exterior details |
Stealthier appearance |
| Performance / Vorsprung |
21-inch wheels, carbon fibre, higher speed |
Maximum specification |
Only sedan and Avant bodies are offered in this generation.
11. Pros & Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Very strong acceleration with electric torque |
Heavier than previous RS5 generation |
| New rear torque vectoring improves handling |
Slightly less practical than the Avant |
| Usable electric range for daily driving |
High price and option costs |
| Refined in Comfort and EV modes |
Exhaust note less vocal than older models |
| Sharp liftback design with good access |
Early model with limited long-term data |
| Excellent all-weather grip |
— |
12. Competitor Comparison
Power and Acceleration
| Model |
System Power |
0-100 km/h |
| 2027 Audi RS5 |
639 PS |
3.6 s |
| BMW M3 Competition xDrive |
~530 hp |
~3.5 s |
| Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance |
~500+ hp |
~3.5 s |
Price Positioning
| Model |
Approx. Price (USD) |
Main Difference vs RS5 |
| 2027 Audi RS5 |
~$125,000 |
Hybrid + advanced rear vectoring |
| BMW M3 Competition xDrive |
~$85,000–90,000 |
Lighter pure petrol option |
| Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance |
~$105,000+ |
Different hybrid character |
Key Trade-offs
| Model |
Advantage |
Disadvantage |
| BMW M3 Competition xDrive |
Lower weight, simpler powertrain |
No electric range |
| Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance |
Similar PHEV approach |
Different character |
| Audi RS6 Avant |
More power, wagon practicality |
Larger and thirstier |
13. Buying Guide
Option Recommendations
| Priority |
Recommended Add-ons |
Reason |
| Daily driving |
Charging cable + standard spec |
Maximise electric range benefit |
| Handling |
Performance pack |
Higher top speed and better wheels |
| Track use |
Carbon-ceramic brakes |
Superior stopping power |
| Visual impact |
Carbon Black or carbon pack |
Sharper appearance |
Test the car in EV mode for daily use and RS Torque Rear mode on twisty roads. Check boot space with typical luggage during the test drive.
14. Owner Reviews and Real-World Impressions
Real-World Feedback Summary
| Aspect |
Common Owner and Tester Comments |
| Acceleration |
Instant response from electric motor |
| Handling |
More playful and adjustable than expected |
| Daily comfort |
Refined and quiet in Comfort and EV modes |
| Practicality |
Good liftback access for a performance sedan |
| Build quality |
Excellent materials and finish |
| Sound |
Present but less dramatic than older RS models |
Early impressions praise the performance and new chassis technology. Long-term reliability data is still limited.
15. FAQ
| Question |
Answer |
| What electric range can I expect in real use? |
Typically 50–70 km depending on conditions and driving style |
| Can the car run on petrol only? |
Yes, it operates normally when the battery is empty |
| Is there a manual gearbox? |
No, only the 8-speed automatic is available |
| How does the new torque vectoring work? |
It distributes power between the rear wheels electronically for better cornering and a more adjustable feel |
| What is the fuel economy like? |
Good when the battery is regularly charged; high teens to low 20s mpg US when running on petrol only |
| Is the RS5 available in the United States? |
Pricing and availability have not been confirmed yet |
| How does it compare to the previous RS5? |
More power, more technology, slightly heavier, and significantly more adjustable handling |
| Are carbon-ceramic brakes worth the cost? |
Recommended only for frequent track use |
| What warranty is provided? |
Standard 5 years/100,000 km with separate high-voltage battery coverage |
| Can it tow a trailer? |
Yes, with a factory towbar fitted |
16. Verdict / Recommendation
Buyer Fit Guide
| Buyer Profile |
Recommendation |
Main Reason |
| Wants strong performance with daily usability |
Highly recommended |
Excellent balance of speed, EV range and sedan practicality |
| Values advanced chassis technology |
Highly recommended |
New rear torque vectoring transforms handling |
| Needs maximum cargo space |
Consider the Avant |
Sedan offers good but not class-leading space |
| Prefers the lightest possible feel |
Consider alternatives |
Weight is higher than previous RS5 |
| Wants one car for commuting and weekends |
Highly recommended |
Strong all-round capability in sedan form |
The 2027 Audi RS5 is a highly capable performance sedan that brings meaningful electric usability and noticeably sharper handling to the segment. It trades some outright lightness for strong real-world versatility. For drivers who want serious pace in a practical sedan package, it stands out as one of the most complete options currently available.
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