Audi’s RS performance line-up is one of the best-regarded worldwide. Over the years, the RS badge has graced some of the most iconic performance cars that haven’t just delivered the speed and acceleration that buyers expect, but a healthy dose of everyday usability too.
The RS5 is one of the core models in this range. Available in both Coupe and Sportback guises, it’s been a very successful model for Audi - but why? Here, we’re going to go through some of the RS5’s key features.
Engine
Core to the RS5 is its 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine. With 444bhp it’s immensely powerful and, as you might expect, sends power to all four wheels via Audi’s famous quattro all-wheel-drive system. It’s enough power to send the RS5 from 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 174mph.
You also get a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox, which you can either leave in full automatic mode or control via the paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.
Design
The RS5 has got that stealthy, undercover appearance that you’d expect from a performance Audi. Of course, there are plenty of exciting touches from the large oval exhaust pipes to the honeycomb front grille which adds plenty of presence.
There are also plenty of silver touches which are an Audi RS hallmark, applied in areas like the grille surround and wing mirrors. However, if you’d rather a more undercover look then Carbon Black and Vorsprung trim levels replace this with gloss black instead.
Space
One of the best aspects of the RS5 is the space that it offers. Obviously, the Coupe isn’t quite as easy to get in and out of compared with the five-door Sportback, but once you’re inside there’s a good amount of room and everything is finished to a high standard.
When it comes to the boot, there are 465 litres available in the standard Coupe. Opt for the Sportback and this rises to a very usable 480 litres, or 980 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
Technology
Audi is known for its high level of standard technology and the RS5 is a fine example of this. It gets Audi’s clear Virtual Cockpit setup, along with a main infotainment system situated in the middle of the dash. It’s controlled via a rotary dial just ahead of the gear selector, while smartphone connectivity options mean it’s not tricky to get your device synced and ready to go.
What really shines through with the RS5, however, is the build quality. Everything feels superbly well-built, with high-end materials used throughout.
Equipment
As one of Audi’s core RS models, the RS5 receives plenty of equipment right from the off. Standard cars get 19-inch alloy wheels while Audi’s Matrix LED headlights provide a superb amount of illumination and incorporate cool-looking dynamic indicators which ‘sweep’ rather than flash when activated.
Step up to Carbon Black models and you’ll get larger 20-inch alloys added as standard, while top-spec Vorsprung models receive Audi’s Laserlight headlight technology and a full panoramic sunroof among other features.
At Swansway Motor Group we offer the full range of new and used Audi cars, browse our current RS5’s in stock below.
