RS 5 arriving in 2026

The first high-performance plug-in hybrid models from Audi Sport – the all-new RS 5 – are set to arrive in Australia in the second half of the year. After taking pride of place at Audi’s trackside suite at the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, the RS 5 will be formally launched Down Under in both Sedan and Avant body styles.

The RS 5 Sedan will touch down from $179,900* with the Audi RS 5 Avant from $182,900* ushering in a new era for Audi Sport and taking the model’s venerated nameplate to all-new heights. Its incredible performance comes courtesy of a hybrid-drive system – a first for Audi Sport – which pairs a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with a powerful electric motor to deliver a combined system output of 470kW of power and 825Nm of torque. This translates into extraordinary acceleration off the mark, rocketing the RS 5 from a standstill to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds – yet despite its incredible high-performance credentials, this new RS 5 is also capable of delivering up to 78km of purely electric driving in the Sedan and 76km in Avant body style (WLTP).

Its performance figures represent an increase of 139kW and 225Nm more torque than the previous model while its use of the very latest quattro technology and electromechanical torque vectoring make for a vehicle at the very leading-edge of performance.

“The new RS 5 represents a defining moment for Audi Sport, as we introduce high-performance plug-in hybrid technology to one of our most recognisable nameplates,” said Jeff Mannering, Director of Audi Australia.

“What’s important is that electrification enhances, rather than changes, the character of an RS model. The new RS 5 delivers even greater performance, sharper responsiveness and improved everyday usability, while remaining true to the driving experience our customers expect.”

Contributing 130kW and 460Nm to the vehicle’s output, the electric motor is powered by a newly developed 25.9 kWh battery. Charging is supported via a 11kW AC system, which means it can be fully charged in around two and half hours. The plug-in hybrid system is supported by a dedicated charging setup designed for both home and public use. With its AC charging port on the passenger side, the RS 5 is equipped with an 11kW onboard charger and a range of charging solutions are included as standard, including a Type 2 charging cable for public infrastructure, a 240-Volt Australian domestic plug, a 32-Amp industrial connector and a wall-mounted bracket for convenient home storage.

The use of the electric motor in concert with the powerful twin-turbo V6 engine is a marriage made in heaven, allowing incredible throttle response right off the line as well as a new boost function activated via the steering wheel that allows up to 10 seconds of maximum system output for overtaking and dynamic acceleration. The system also selects the appropriate gear and opens up the exhaust valves to deliver a truly ‘moving’ experience.

The RS 5 rides on forged 21-inch RS alloy wheels in a six twin-spoke design finished in matt platinum grey which are slightly wider on the rear for greater cornering grip at speed.

Newly developed RS sport suspension features twin-valve damper technology which is designed to deliver improved body control while not compromising ride comfort and then there is the next‑generation quattro drivetrain with Dynamic Torque Control. Centred around a world‑first rear transaxle developed specifically for the vehicle’s hybrid drive, the system employs electromechanical torque vectoring via a water‑cooled, permanent‑magnet 400‑volt electric motor delivering 8kW and 40Nm, which acts as a high‑voltage actuator within the rear transaxle. The actuator actively redistributes torque differences between the rear wheels within milliseconds, enabling incredibly precise torque control and delivering extraordinary agility, stability and cornering performance.

Unlike conventional mechanical systems, quattro with Dynamic Torque Control operates across a wide range of dynamic scenarios, including off‑throttle and under braking, independently of drivetrain torque, ensuring consistently balanced and confidence‑inspiring handling. A redesigned centre differential with integrated preload function ensures continuous torque distribution, delivering sharper response during rapid throttle transitions. This is complemented by a new rear diff and optimised axle coupling which all go together to create exceptional group and handling regardless of speed or conditions.

The sharp aggressive styling of the new RS 5 models speaks for itself, taking the new A5 shape and turning it into something unmistakably Audi Sport. Matrix LED headlights with customisable light signatures are as much a part of the front end design as cutting-edge lighting, while on the rear, digital OLED lighting introduces an RS-specific design featuring a distinctive chequered flag signature.

RS projection lighting is integrated into the exterior mirrors which are finished in black, while privacy glass and acoustic glazing for the front windows are standard features. RS red brake callipers are plainly visible within those big 21-inch alloy wheels and a high-gloss black exterior styling package adds to the RS 5’s over presence.

Inside the RS 5 is a monument to the highest levels of craftsmanship, with the distinctive honeycomb stitching adorning the seats – the front RS sport front seats with their electric adjustability and four-way lumbar support as well as ventilation and massage functions. The front seats and outer rear seats are also heated.

Dinamica microfibre interior elements and carbon micro twill inlays add to the air of sporty sophistication. The multifunction steering wheel with its flat top and bottom features a 12 o’clock marker – also in keeping with the car’s sporty character – while a panoramic glass roof with switchable transparency and ambient interior lighting allow you to change the feel of the cabin in an instant to suit prevailing conditions and mood.

Infotainment and digital integration are also of the highest order and are delivered via Audi’s latest MMI panoramic display, combining an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus with a 14.5-inch central MMI touchscreen. The RS 5 also features a dedicated front passenger display while the driver is able to keep all of their attention on the road and still remain up-to-date with vehicle systems and navigation via the head-up display.

The Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System includes integrated head restraint speakers and is supported by Audi connect plus services, wireless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio and inductive phone charging with cooling functionality. There are also multiple USB interfaces provided throughout the cabin for both charging and connectivity, including high output USB ports capable of charging larger items like laptops.

Overall, the long list of equipment and standard features make these the most comprehensively equipped RS 5 models ever offered.

As usual, the Audi RS 5 range will be backed by Audi Australia’s comprehensive ownership program, including a five-year warranty and 12 years manufacturing warranty for bodywork against corrosion perforation for new vehicles.

Five-year service plans will likewise be available and customers also can purchase Audi Advantage, an Audi-exclusive program that allows owners to purchase two-year packages to extend their servicing, warranty, and roadside assistance. New vehicle owners can purchase two-year programs back-to-back at the time of purchase, or at a later date up to eight years old, to extend the current manufacturer warranty beyond the current five-year period. This allows new vehicle owners the security of a full factory warranty for up to nine years, which is transferable to future owners of their vehicle.

The arrival of Audi Sport’s next chapter promises to be quite the ride, with full specification set to be announced closer to their expected arrival in the second half of 2026. In the meantime, customers can register your interest to receive updates, visit Audi Australia’s official website or speak to their preferred Audi dealer.