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February 24, 2026
Audi unveils the RS 5, now a PHEV model.
Audi RS 5 | Audi RS 5
Audi has unveiled the new RS 5 in its home market of Germany. It marks the first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model in the high-performance RS line, and will be available as a sedan and an Avant station wagon.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
Features World's First Electromechanical Torque Vectoring System for Production Cars
The RS 5 stands at the pinnacle of the Audi A5 series. Audi Sport, responsible for high-performance models, has introduced it as their first PHEV model under the "RS" banner.
The powertrain combines a 2.9-liter V6 twin-turbo engine producing 375kW (510ps) with a 130kW electric motor. This is the first model to feature the modular electric powertrain combined with all-wheel drive (quattro) with dynamic torque control, raising the top speed to 285 km/h.
In addition to an 8-speed transmission, a newly developed rear transaxle with an electromechanical torque vectoring system—a world first for production cars—is a significant highlight.
This system integrates an actuator, overdrive gear, and differential to switch torque between the rear wheels according to driving conditions.
The control unit repeatedly calculates optimal torque distribution between the rear wheels at a frequency of 200Hz, every 5 milliseconds, allowing the torque vectoring system to execute these adjustments instantly and reflect them in performance.
The exterior has also been updated to match the behavior driven by the latest technology. The fenders are approximately 9cm wider than the base A5, expressing a powerful stance.
The front design features a three-dimensional honeycomb grille in a single frame and air curtains to control airflow. At the rear, an aerodynamic diffuser and matte-finished oval tailpipes from the RS sport exhaust system enhance the sporty aesthetic.
Furthermore, dark matrix LED headlights, active day and night, and digital daytime running lights with a checkerboard flag design emphasize its sporty character.
Additionally, it is equipped with RS sport suspension featuring twin-valve shock absorbers specifically designed for RS models, and RS-tuned steering. The car rides on large 20-inch or 21-inch wheels.
Within the cabin's 14.5-inch touchscreen, detailed analysis of driven routes can be displayed. On the track, sector times can be analyzed and saved, and when using the RS torque rear drive select mode, numerical data such as achieved drift angles are also shown.
The new RS 5, updated with various functions as a PHEV, is scheduled for delivery in Europe starting in the summer of 2026.
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