The New Audi RS5 Will Get a Hybrid Powertrain
The future generation of the Audi RS5 will be a significant change compared to its predecessors, as it will receive a complex plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time. For the Audi Sport division, this is a turning point, as electrification will for the first time affect one of the brand’s key high-performance models.
Although rumors about a hybrid RS5 have been circulating for a long time, official confirmation appeared only recently due to an accidental information leak from Audi itself.
Accidental Confirmation on Social Media
At the end of last week, Audi briefly published an announcement of the new model on LinkedIn, which was quickly deleted. However, a screenshot of the publication was taken in time. In it, the automaker stated:
The new Audi RS 5 is also approaching its debut and will become our first performance plug-in hybrid.
Audi has not yet revealed the full technical specifications of the RS5’s hybrid system, but the transition to a plug-in hybrid architecture is a logical step, considering that the updated S5 already uses a mild-hybrid setup.
Benefits and Challenges of Electrification
Electrification will not only help the RS5 meet Euro 7 emission standards but will also likely give it a significant performance boost and provide a decent electric-only range. However, this may come at a cost. For example, the plug-in hybrid BMW M5 weighs 2445 kg, which is 463 kg more than the model it replaced.
In any case, Audi engineers will have the task of preserving the car’s balanced handling, similar to the updated S5.
Expected Technical Specifications
If the Audi S5 uses a 3.0-liter single-turbo V6, then, according to some sources, the RS5 will receive an updated version of the 2.9-liter bi-turbo V6 from the previous Audi RS4. In standard form, this engine develops 444 hp, but adding an electric motor could significantly increase power.
If Audi decides to go further, the RS5 could even approach the power of models like the Mercedes-AMG C 63 E Performance, whose plug-in hybrid system based on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine develops 671 hp. However, even AMG plans to replace this setup with an inline-six in the next generation C63.
Exterior and Design
In addition to the powertrain, spy photos show that the RS5 will demonstrate its sporting essence in its design as well. Aggressively styled bumpers, widened wheel arches, and a new interpretation of Audi’s signature oval exhaust pipes are expected. The car will not be inconspicuous, and that is its goal.
The emergence of the plug-in hybrid RS5 clearly fits into the overall strategy of premium brands to combine high performance with environmental friendliness. This indicates that even in the sports sedan and coupe segment, electrification is becoming a necessity, not just a trend. The key task for engineers remains the fight against weight to preserve the agile handling for which RS models are valued. The success of this model could set the tone for future Audi Sport products in the new electro-mechanical era.