It’s coming to a de-restricted motorway near you. The latest RS Audi coupé, complete with a 450PS V8 and a new-for-RS-models, 7-speed twin-clutch transmission, was launched at Geneva.

Audi introduced the original quattro at the 1980 Geneva motor show. In 2010, not only has the Ingolstadt company launched its luxury city car A1, but it also showed the fastest A5 variant yet. The RS 5 is powered by a hand-built 4.2-litre V8 FSI engine, re-engineered (with technology from Audi’s range-topping V10) to achieve 8250rpm, at which dizzy heights maximum power of 450PS is available. Torque of 430Nm is delivered between 4000rpm and 6000rpm.

This results in the 1725kg car sprinting from 0-62mph in a time of 4.6 seconds and then on to an electronically governed 155mph top speed. The new dual-clutch transmission is lightning fast and comes equipped with a launch control function. The quattro permanent all-wheel drive has evolved yet further with a ‘next generation’ centre diff known as a ‘crown-gear differential’. Electronics governing the entire system can apportion drive where appropriate. So, from a standard 40 per cent front, 60 per cent rear, as much as 85 per cent can be directed to the rear tyres, depending on driving conditions.

The Audi Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) system, first seen in the RS 6, is fitted as standard, while 380mm, ceramic carbonfibre brake discs can be specified as an option. Three modes – comfort, auto, and dynamic – of the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics control system are available to the press-on driver.

Visually, the new RS 5 is classically ‘RS Audi’: flared wheel arches, and xenon plus headlights with LED-strip daytime running lights sitting above oversized air inlets. At the rear, two oval exhaust pipes are integrated in the bumper, with a large horizontal diffuser in contrasting finish echoing the similar aerodynamic feature underneath the front grille. A tailgate spoiler automatically extends at a speed of 75mph and retracts at 50mph.

The classy interior will be familiar to Audi enthusiasts worldwide, and buyers will have the option of specifying either more sporting bucket seats or climate-controlled comfort seats at extra cost. All seat options fold to allow access for rear passengers.

UK buyers will be able to order the RS 5 in the spring at a price around £58,500. Deliveries will start in October.

Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: Audi