First 4.2-liter V8 with 7-speed S tronic, and evolved quattro

While the A5 series has the S5 as its high-performance model, the newly announced RS5 offers even greater performance, making it the most powerful in the series. The 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine, which produced 354ps in the S5, has been enhanced to 450ps, surpassing even the R8, and allows for acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.

Furthermore, the transmission, which was a 6-speed Tiptronic in the S5, has now evolved to a 7-speed S tronic (dual-clutch gearbox). This is the first time the 4.2-liter V8 unit has been paired with the 7-speed S tronic.

Additionally, the RS5 features a new generation of the quattro all-wheel-drive system with a crown-gear center differential. This mechanical differential is characterized by its light weight and compact design, achieving a weight reduction of 2kg compared to its predecessor. Simultaneously, it allows for a greater variation in torque distribution to the front and rear wheels, up to 70 percent to the front and 85 percent to the rear depending on road conditions (normally 40 percent front, 60 percent rear).

Combined with the torque-vectoring system that optimizes power distribution to all four wheels and the sport differential that variably controls the drive force distribution between the left and right rear tires, it achieves a high-dimensional driving dynamic befitting the most powerful model in the series.

Imposing exterior, priced at 12.04 million yen

The exterior also incorporates numerous RS5-exclusive design elements. The single-frame grille features an anthracite gray diamond-look finish with a hexagonal pattern, a sporty front bumper design has been adopted, and an electrically deploying rear spoiler is integrated into the trunk lid. This spoiler extends at speeds above 120 km/h and retracts below 80 km/h. The driver can also manually deploy or retract it via a switch.

Meanwhile, environmental performance has also been considered, with features such as an energy recovery system that stores electricity generated by the alternator in the battery and the use of a low-friction oil pump.

Both left-hand and right-hand drive configurations are available, with a price of 12.04 million yen. Audi Japan has set an annual sales target of 100 units.

Additionally, a convertible model has been added to the S5 series, and for the A5 Cabriolet, the 3.2-liter V6 has been replaced by a new 2.0 TFSI quattro. The price for the S5 Cabriolet is 9.39 million yen, and for the A5 Cabriolet, it is 6.48 million yen.