Audi Sport has officially entered the electrified era with the world premiere of the 3rd generation new Audi RS 5 PHEV.
It’s finally happening, Audi Sport is finally embracing electrification with the launch of the new Audi RS 5 Sedan and RS 5 Avant. By merging its legendary RS DNA with cutting-edge hybridization, Audi has created a vehicle that masters the “wide spread” of driving dynamics. The real question is how many performance enthusiasts are demanding such a vehicle?
Electrified Power: The V6 Hybrid Heart
The core of the 2026 Audi RS 5 is its modular high-performance powertrain. It pairs an extensively developed 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, outputting 510 PS, with a 130 kW electric motor integrated into the eight-speed tiptronic gearbox. Together, they produce a massive total system output of 639 PS and 825 Nm of torque.
This output enables both the Sedan and Avant to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. For those seeking top-end velocity, the optional Audi Sport package raises the electronically limited top speed to 285 km/h. Beyond raw speed, the hybrid system provides a practical all-electric range of up to 84 kilometers (EAER), allowing for whisper-quiet, local emission-free travel in urban centers.
World First: quattro with Dynamic Torque Control
While the power figures are headline-grabbing, the true innovation lies in the drivetrain. The RS 5 debuts a world-first technology in a production car: Dynamic Torque Control in the rear transaxle. This electromechanical torque vectoring system conducts an “orchestra of performance,” shifting torque between the rear wheels in just 5 milliseconds.
Unlike mechanical systems, this electro-mechanical maestro can transfer torque in either direction, whether on or off the throttle. This is paired with a new center differential featuring a “preload” that ensures the axles remain partially locked at all times. The result is a car that turns in with surgical precision, minimizes understeer, and provides immense traction on corner exit.
RS-Specific Chassis and Handling
To handle the increased system weight and power, Audi engineers have completely redesigned the suspension. The RS 5 features a five-link setup front and rear, with the unibody being 10% stiffer than the base model.
Standard equipment includes the RS sport suspension with twin-valve shock absorbers, which allows for independent control of compression and rebound. This technology drastically reduces pitch and roll, ensuring the vehicle stays flat during aggressive maneuvers while maintaining high levels of everyday comfort. For maximum stopping power, customers can opt for 21-inch RS ceramic brakes, which are 30 kilograms lighter than the standard steel units and significantly more heat-resistant.
Unmistakably RS: Muscular Design
Visually, the RS 5 is a puristic powerhouse. It stands nine centimeters wider than the base A5, with flared fenders that serve as a clear homage to the legendary Audi Ur-quattro. The front is dominated by a three-dimensional honeycomb Singleframe grille and darkened Matrix LED headlights featuring a checkered-flag digital signature.
At the rear, the aerodynamic diffuser houses centrally positioned matte oval tailpipes, a signature of the RS sport exhaust system. The RS 5 Sedan adopts a sleek, coupé-like silhouette with a striking ducktail spoiler, while the RS 5 Avant offers the perfect symbiosis of high-performance and long-roof utility.
The Digitalized RS Cockpit
The interior is a driver-oriented command post centered around the Audi MMI Panorama display. This curved OLED unit consists of an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display.
Keen drivers can access RS-specific data, including tire pressures, temperatures, G-forces, and lap times. A new highlight is the Audi driving experience function, which allows for in-depth analysis of track runs, including sector times and even drift angle statistics when using the “RS torque rear” mode.
Pricing and Availability
The new Audi RS 5 remains a premium proposition, with German market pricing starting at 106,200 euros for the Sedan and 107,850 euros for the Avant. Order books for European buyers are expected to open in the first quarter of 2026, with deliveries commencing in the summer.
As Audi Sport’s first high-performance hybrid, the new RS 5 does not just represent an evolution of a model; it defines the future of the brand—where electrification and emotional performance coexist without compromise.
