Audi Ireland recently revealed the all-new Audi RS 5 at Audi North Dublin. Having spent some time with the car in the showroom last week, it’s fair to say it’s even more impressive in the metal! Low, wide, and packed with subtle details that you will only see up close. This is Audi Sport’s first high-performance plug-in hybrid, delivering a substantial 470 kW (639 PS), an optional top speed of 285 km/h, and up to 87 km of all-electric driving (WLTP). It also introduces a new quattro system with Dynamic Torque Control at the rear, bringing a sharper, more responsive feel to how the car puts its power down. Classic RS cues are all there too with wider bodywork, darkened Matrix LED headlights, a proper RS sport exhaust, and a cabin that feels every bit as focused as you’d expect.
What makes the new RS 5 particularly interesting is how it blends that familiar RS character with hybrid tech. It’s just as comfortable cruising through town quietly on electric power as it is stretching its legs on a good road. The setup pairs a revised 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 with a 130 kW electric motor, working together through an eight-speed gearbox and a newly developed quattro system. For the first time, torque can be actively distributed across the rear axle, helping the car feel more agile and composed in all conditions.
Underneath, there’s a lot going on to support that performance. A newly developed rear transaxle constantly adjusts how torque is split between the rear wheels, recalculating up to 200 times per second for near-instant response. Combined with RS-specific suspension, updated axles, sharp steering, and bespoke wheel and tyre setups, it all adds up to a car that’s as controlled as it is quick. The twin-valve dampers in particular help smooth out rough roads without dulling the edge when you want to push on.
Visually, it leans into that performance brief without overdoing it. The RS 5 sits around nine centimetres wider than a standard A5, with flared arches and a more planted stance. Up front, the large Singleframe grille and air intakes give it real presence, while the rear is finished with a clean diffuser and oval tailpipes. The lighting signature, especially those darkened Matrix LEDs adda a subtle motorsport touch. For those looking to dial things up further, the optional Audi Sport package adds more aggressive styling details, larger 21-inch wheels, and lifts the top speed to 285 km/h. Inside, there’s plenty of scope for personalisation, with contrasting stitching, unique finishes, and options like ceramic brakes and carbon detailing giving it a more bespoke feel.
Tech-wise, the new Audi driving experience system brings more insight into how the car performs, with detailed data available through the central display. On track, it can even log sector times and driving metrics, including drift angles when using the RS torque rear mode. In terms of pricing both the RS 5 Sedan and RS 5 Avant are expected from €115,000, with first deliveries due from July 2026. A nationwide roadshow is also underway, giving people a chance to see the car up close at Audi Sport dealerships over the coming weeks.
