2018 AUDI RS 5 COUPE - myAutoWorld.com

Second generation RS 5 coupe delivers 444 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque
Featuring a newly developed V6 biturbo engine, the high-performance coupe sprints from 0-60 mph in a class-leading 3.7 seconds
The newest Audi Sport model is on sale now

HERNDON, VA, March 12, 2018 – The all-new 2018 RS 5 coupe builds on the heritage and success of the first generation, delivering even more performance, a refined design and everyday usability. As the newest model in the Audi Sport lineup, the RS 5 Coupe is on sale now.

Featuring a newly developed 2.9-liter V6 TFSI® biturbo engine and an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, the RS 5 coupe melds efficiency and high levels of performance with a full-bodied RS sound. As with any vehicle that bears the RS badge, the RS 5 coupe includes motorsport developments and technologies that embody the Audi Sport motto “Born on the Track. Built for the Road.” New for 2018, the high-performance coupe delivers benchmark infotainment such as the available Audi virtual cockpit and advanced driver assistance systems including standard Audi pre sense® city and available adaptive cruise control with Traffic Jam assist.

POWERTRAIN AND PERFORMANCE

The all-new 2018 RS 5 features a newly developed 2.9-liter V6 TFSI® biturbo engine, which compared to its naturally-aspirated V8 predecessor, delivers more power, and weighs 68 pounds less. The 2.9-liter V6 biturbo engine generates 444 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, 126 lb-ft of peak torque more than the previous generation, and it is available between a broad range of 1,900 and 5,000 rpm. As a result, the RS 5 can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a class-leading 3.7 seconds, eight tenths of a second faster than the previous generation RS 5, and achieve a top track speed of 155 mph, or increased to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package.

Similar to the S5 coupe V6 engine design, each of the two turbochargers on the 2.9-liter engine of RS 5 are positioned directly inside the “V” and generate a max buildup of 21.5 PSI. This compact configuration ensures improved engine responsiveness and performance. As for intake, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) changes the duration of the valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speed. To help increase engine efficiency and power, the V6 engine uses a centrally mounted fuel injector and a combustion method with shorter compression and longer expansion phases. This allows for a higher compression ratio of 10.0:1, further improving the engine’s efficiency and allowing for greater power and torque delivery.

DRIVETRAIN

The power of the biturbo engine flows through an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission with self-locking center differential that focuses on high levels of performance and acceleration. A traction control system manages distribution for maximum acceleration with minimal slip.

The standard quattro® all-wheel drive offers high-precision handling through active torque distribution to both axles. In regular driving situations, the system delivers 60 percent of the torque to the rear axle and 40 percent to the front. However, when needed, power can be redirected to the opposite axle, with up to 85 percent of torque to the front and up to 70 percent to the rear axle.

The standard quattro® sport rear differential with RS-specific tuning offers a dynamic driving experience by actively splitting torque between the wheels of the rear axle, with the ability to direct nearly all available rear torque to one wheel.

CHASSIS

The RS 5’s newly developed front and rear suspension allows for both a sporty driving experience and more comfortable ride for long distances. The redesigned front five-link suspension with lightweight construction offers greater steering precision and better handling through optimized steering-rack placement direct at wheel centers. With the standard RS sport suspension, the RS 5 coupe sits 7 mm lower than the S5 Coupe. RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control, which uses steel springs and adjustable dampers that are connected to one another via diagonal oil lines and a central valve, is also available. When cornering at speed, the valves regulate the oil flow in the shock absorber of the deflected outside front wheel almost immediately. This increases the support and reduces pitch and roll movements to improve the vehicle’s overall driving dynamics.

Drivers can customize their driving experience through the standard Audi drive select system which offers four distinct drive modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and individual. Each mode allows the driver to adjust the quattro sport differential, dynamic steering, and dynamic ride control (if equipped), in addition to being able to change gear shift points, steering and throttle response. Handling is also improved by RS-specific programming for the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC) unit with wheel-selective torque control and an available sport mode. Also as part of the Audi drive select system, both with the standard RS exhaust system and with the available RS Sport exhaust, the driver can control the opening and closing of the exhaust flaps in order to hear more of the exhaust sound.

Available RS-tuned dynamic steering offers a variable steering ratio that adjusts based on vehicle speed and the Audi drive select setting. At higher driving speeds, dynamic steering helps to improve straight-line stability, and at lower driving speeds, a more direct steering ratio is used to help increase steering response for easy maneuvering. Additionally, unique to RS models, when in dynamic mode, dynamic steering locks the steering ratio at 13.5:1 for a consistent response.

BRAKES

Two brake systems are available on the new Audi RS 5 coupe, both offering outstanding stopping performance. RS steel brakes with cross-drilled discs and six-piston front brake calipers in black or optionally painted red, both featuring the RS logo are standard on the RS 5. Also available are carbon ceramic front brakes (as part of the Dynamic plus package) which offer weight savings and superior stopping power compared to the traditional steel brakes. The front and rear calipers on the carbon-ceramic brakes are painted in gray and feature the RS logo.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The design of the new RS 5 Coupe draws inspiration from the distinctive racing details of the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO. The wave-design shoulder line underscores the athleticism of the coupe and the flared box fenders provide cues to the standard quattro® all-wheel drive, in addition to widening the body by 15mm on each side. At the front, the Singleframe® grille with the signature quattro script is wider and flatter than the A5 Coupe and larger air intakes in the lower bumper serve the engine’s need for cooling. Additional sporty accents on the rear include an RS-specific diffuser, large oval “RS” exhaust pipes, and a rear-lip spoiler.

Additional exterior design details include:

Standard 19-inch, 10-spoke-star design forged wheels with 265/35 summer performance tires
Auto-dimming, heated, power folding exterior side mirrors
Power sunroof with tilt and slide functionality
Standard full LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights with dynamic turn signals
RS exterior elements including matte alu-optic exterior mirror housings, matte alu-optic front spoiler with quattro script, high gloss black side sills and rear lip spoiler, and wider front and rear fenders
Available Black optic package which includes 20” 5-arm-trapezoid design forged wheels with bi-color anthracite finish and 275/30 summer performance tires, a high gloss black exterior kit with quattro script and exterior side mirrors in the vehicle body color, or available 20” 5-arm-peak design milled and forged wheels in bi-color anthracite black matte finish with 275/30 summer performance tires

INTERIOR DESIGN AND INFOTAINMENT

Similar to the S5 Coupe, the RS 5 features the Audi brand’s hallmark wing-design wrap-around dashboard with driver-oriented interior with easy-to-operate controls and functions. From its S sport seats with RS embossing, flat-bottomed, perforated leather RS sport steering wheel and gear shift, and stainless steel pedals, the RS 5 Coupe is a sports car with a high degree of everyday practicality.

The all-new RS 5, while offering outstanding performance, also integrates benchmark technologies including standard Audi smartphone interface, which provides Apple CarPlay™ and Google™ Android Auto integration for compatible mobile devices, available Audi virtual cockpit and full color head-up display.

Additional interior highlights include:

Flat-bottom three-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel with RS badge and enlarged shift paddles
Heated, 12-way, contrast diamond stitched leather/Alcantara® S-sport seats with RS embossing, and power side bolsters and massage function
Available Fine Nappa leather seats with honeycomb contrast stitching and RS embossing
Aluminum, illuminated door sill inlays with RS 5 logo
Stainless steel footrest and pedal caps
Standard three-zone automatic climate control with digital rear display

Additional infotainment features include:

Available Audi virtual cockpit features a 12.3-inch display that delivers vibrant color at 60 frames per second with NVIDIA® quad core processing power. Specific to the RS 5 is a screen that displays information on tire pressure and temperature (when equipped with the Dynamic plus package), torque, horsepower, and g-forces. Additionally, when in manual shift mode, the tachometer becomes a shift indicator with a colored background that prompts the driver to upshift via the steering wheel paddle or selector level.
Available full-color head-up display projects relevant driving information directly in the driver’s field of vision, in addition to an RS specific mode which displays oil temperature, lap times, and a shift indicator
Available Audi MMI® navigation plus with MMI touch features a completely redesigned menu structure and an all-new MMI search, which operates similar to an Internet search engine making text input simpler.
Standard Audi smartphone interface for compatible devices, which provides Apple CarPlay™ and Google™ Android Auto integration via USB connection, making smartphone interactions easier for the driver.
Available Bang & Olufsen® Sound System with 3D sound featuring 19 speakers capable of producing 755 watts of pure, crisp sound.

Audi connect®

Audi connect® packages together all applications that help connect the vehicle with the internet, the owner and the surrounding infrastructure (active subscription required). Improved functions include online traffic info, weather updates, fuel prices, Apple Siri® Eyes Free integration for compatible devices, internet radio streaming as well as picture navigation, read-aloud personalized news headlines and Twitter® alerts, among other features.

Available in-car Audi connect® CARE features include:

Online roadside assistance and service interval notification
Automatic Crash Notification (SOS)
Manual Emergency Call (SOS)
Stolen Vehicle Locator

The Audi connect® mobile application has also been updated to support new remote services designed for the U.S. market which include Curfew, Speed, and Valet Alerts, remote lock and unlock capability and online car finder.

ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS

The RS 5 coupe includes many available advanced driver assistance systems that are designed to help drivers navigate the road and traffic with increased confidence.

Driver assistance systems include:

In the case of an impending collision, standard Audi pre sense® basic can intervene to help prepare the vehicle for impact. This process includes beginning to close the side windows and panoramic sunroof, and pretensioning the front safety belts.
Standard Audi pre sense city helps detect cornering and stationary vehicles as well as pedestrians, at speeds of up to 52 mph and can initiate full braking when a potential collision is detected.
Standard Audi side assist provides blind spot monitoring via LED indicators on the exterior mirror housings.
Standard rear cross traffic assist (as part of Audi side assist) supports the driver when reversing out of a perpendicular parking space. Indicator arrows in the MMI® display can inform the driver of approaching vehicles, and in critical situations, a warning tone and brake jolt can be applied, prompting the driver to stop the vehicle.
Standard Audi pre sense rear helps monitor the traffic following the vehicle and takes similar actions to Audi pre sense basic.
Available adaptive cruise control with stop & go and traffic jam assist helps maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, and brakes and accelerates as needed. Between 0-40 mph, traffic jam assist combines acceleration, braking and steering guidance, which can reduce the stress of driving in congested traffic.
Available traffic sign recognition can detect speed limits and displays the information in the Audi virtual cockpit or driver information system.
Available Audi active lane assist observes lane markings and can provide gentle steering wheel warning vibrations if it’s determined that the vehicle is approaching the edge of the lane without signaling, and can steer driver back into their lane
Available high beam assistant automatically switches between high and low beam to help produce the right light for a specific situation and helps increase visibility for the driver. The high-beam can be switched off when approaching vehicles are detected.

Pricing Detail:

Model year 2018 RS 5 Coupe starting manufacturer suggested retail prices:

MODEL
2018 RS 5	$69,900

*Prices above exclude $975 destination charge, taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

Class leading 0-60 mph claim based on competitor data available at time of publication. Audi of America, Inc., defines the competitive segment as the 2018 Audi RS 5 coupe, 2018 BMW M4, 2018 Mercedes Benz AMG C 63 Coupe, 2018 Mercedes Benz AMG C 63 S Coupe, 2017 Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 and the 2017 Lexus RC F models.

Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted.

Top track speed electronically limited in U.S. Obey all speed and traffic laws.

Tires are supplied and warranted by their manufacturer. Summer High-performance tires are designed for optimum performance and handling in warm climates. They are not suitable for cold, snowy, or icy weather conditions. If you drive under those circumstances, you should equip your vehicle with all-season or winter tires, which offer better traction under those conditions. We suggest you use the recommended winter or all-season tire specified for your car or its equivalent. These high-performance tires also may have a lower aspect ratio that aids performance and handling; however, in order to avoid tire, rim, or vehicle damage, it is important that the inflation pressure is regularly checked and maintained at optimum levels. Please also remember in making your selection that, while these tires deliver responsive handling, they may ride less comfortably and make more noise than other choices. Finally, these tires may wear more quickly than other choices.

Audi Navigation plus depends on signals from the worldwide Global Positioning Satellite network. The vehicle’s electrical system, and existing wireless and satellite technologies, must be available and operating properly for the system to function. The system is designed to provide you with suggested routes in locating addresses, destination and other points of interest. Changes in street names, construction zones, traffic flow, points of interest and other road system changes are beyond the control of Audi of America, Inc. Complete detailed mapping of lanes, roads, streets, toll roads, highways, etc., is not possible, therefore you may encounter discrepancies between the mapping and your actual location. Please rely on your individual judgment in determining whether or not to follow a suggested Audi navigation plus route.

See Owner’s Manual for further details, and important limitations about MMI touch.

Not all Audi smartphone interface features available on all operating systems. Standard text and data usage rates apply. These features require compatible device, operating system, and mobile apps. See mobile device and app providers for terms and privacy. “Android, Android Auto, Google Play, and other marks are trademarks of Google Inc. “Apple CarPlay” is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Connect PRIME services are optional, may require an additional subscription with separate terms and conditions, and should be used only when it is safe and appropriate. Trial or paid subscription required. Connect PRIME services require vehicle cellular connectivity and availability of vehicle GPS signal; certain services collect location information, see Terms of Service for information about how to disable. Online services are subject to change at any time. Google Earth features will not be available after December 2020 for Model Year 2018 & prior vehicles. Google Earth is a trademark of Google Inc.

Connect CARE services are provided with the support of authorized affiliated and third party service providers. Available on select models. Connect CARE services are activated prior to purchase or lease and do not require registration or paid subscription. Connect CARE services require vehicle cellular connectivity and availability of vehicle GPS signal; certain services collect location information, see Terms of Service for information about how to disable. Audi Connect services, including Connect CARE are subject to technologies remaining commercially available, such services are not guaranteed, and may not be available after December 2021.

Roadside Assistance provided by an authorized third party service provider. Stolen Vehicle Locator is for use by law enforcement authorities only. See Terms of Service for details. The Curfew, Speed and Valet alerts should only be viewed when it is safe and appropriate. Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted. Smartphone message and data rates apply. Always obey speed and traffic laws. Car Finder requires Audi MMI connect app. Smartphone message and data rates apply. Do not use feature to locate stolen vehicle. Driver Assistance features are not substitutes for attentive driving. See Owner’s Manual for further details, and important limitations. Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices and do not include destination charges, taxes, title, options, and dealer charges.

BITURBO V6 TFSI POWERS NEW LIGHTER, FASTER AUDI PERFORMANCE BENCHMARK

All-new 2.9 TFSI with 450PS and 600Nm of torque from 1,900 – 5,000rpm
0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds –more than half a second quicker than its predecessor
The first Audi Sport model to introduce the new design idiom
Virtual cockpit with RS-specific displays available
Standard 155mph top speed can be increased up to 174mph
Combined 32.5mpg – a 17 percent improvement – and 197g/km of CO2
quattro all-wheel drive, wheel selective torque control and Audi drive select as standard
Overall weight reduction of up to 60kg
Optional carbon fibre roof and fully milled wheels
RS sport exhaust system and sport differential also available
State-of-the-art driver assistance, safety and connectivity systems
Ordering anticipated to open in May with first deliveries due in summer

Ingolstadt/Geneva, March 7, 2017 –Reaffirming its status as the indisputable head of the A5 pack and a cornerstone of the Audi Sport stable, the all-new RS 5 Coupé makes its world debut at the 87th annual Geneva Motor Show this week, delivering phenomenal pace from its brand new V6 biturbo TFSI, a lighter overall weight and a healthy hike in torque. The very latest in Vorsprung durch Technik is also comes to the fore, from the cutting-edge driver assistance and connectivity systems to the even more comprehensive specification as standard. Ordering for the 450PS, sub-four second gran turismo is expected to open from May this year, ahead of first examples reaching UK roads this summer.

“The new Audi RS 5 Coupé is the gran turismo among the RS models from Audi Sport. The high-performance Coupé combines elegant aesthetics with high everyday usability.

The car’s V6 biturbo has been developed from the ground up and provides significantly more performance coupled with higher efficiency,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH, in describing the new model.

The RS 5 Coupé is also the first car to bear the new Audi RS design idiom that will be introduced to the Audi Sport range. The designers drew inspiration for the RS 5 Coupé from the distinctive racing details of the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO. Massive air inlets with the honeycomb structure typical of RS models characterise the front end of the new Audi RS 5 Coupé. The Singleframe radiator grille is much wider and flatter than in the base model. Next to the headlights are additional lateral air intakes and outlets; tinted bezels differentiate the optional Matrix LED headlights. quattro blisters on the flanks emphasise the pronounced bulges over the wheel arches, which have been widened by 15 millimetres.

Appropriately purposeful accents are provided by the RS-specific diffuser insert, the oval tailpipes of the RS exhaust system and surface-mounted spoiler lip. The RS 5 Coupé rolls as standard on 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option. Gloss black, carbon and matt aluminium packages provide even more customisation options. With a length of 4,723 millimetres, the new Audi RS 5 Coupé is 74 millimetres longer than the previous model.

Packing a mighty punch, the car’s all-new 2.9 TFSI biturbo engine produces 450PS and delivers 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque, with a charismatic soundtrack that is reminiscent of the V6 TFSI housed in the original B5 RS 4. Developed from the ground up, it offers sharp increases in power and efficiency as well as an incomparably full-bodied RS sound. It produces 450PS and peak torque of 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) – up 170 Nm (125.4 lb-ft) from the previous model – is available across a wide band from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm. The top model in the A5 family sprints from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds and with the optional dynamic package reaches a top speed of 174mph.

Two turbochargers are positioned centrally between the cylinder banks of the 2.9 TFSI unit. The ingested air flows to the respective turbocharger and into the combustion chambers through a dual-branch system for spontaneous response.

The B-cycle combustion process with central direct injection represents a new level of efficiency among the RS models. The shortened compression stroke used here enables an engine process with a significantly higher geometric compression ratio. Combined with a power stroke that, while normal, is longer relative to the compression stroke, this allows for more efficient combustion and increased engine efficiency.

According to the NEDC, the V6 biturbo is capable of up to 32.5mpg combined, corresponding to 197 grams CO₂ per km – an efficiency gain of 17 percent over the previous model. Another factor in the greater efficiency of the new RS 5 Coupé is its significantly lower weight. It tips the scales at 1,655 kilograms, 60 kilograms less than before. A carbon roof with a visible fibre structure is available as an option.

The biturbo’s power flows through a dynamically-tuned, eight-speed tiptronic with optimised shift times to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The drive forces are distributed asymmetrically to the axles (40:60) to guarantee dynamic handling with optimal traction and the greatest possible safety. Audi Sport also offers a rear sport differential.

An updated five-link construction is used on the front axle. At the rear, a five-link suspension replaces the trapezoidal-link suspension used on the previous model, benefiting the deft driving characteristics and agility. It also improves comfort significantly. With the standard RS sport suspension, the new Audi RS 5 Coupé sits much lower than the production model.

Audi Sport also offers the RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), ceramic brakes and dynamic steering with RS-specific tuning. Drivers can make their personal driving experience more individual, dynamic or comfortable using the standard Audi drive select system.

Bathed in black, the interior of the new Audi RS 5 Coupé is extremely upscale and lavishly appointed. Details such as RS sport seats with optional diamond stitching in Fine Nappa leather and the flat-bottomed RS multifunction sport steering wheel underscore the character of the high-performance coupe in the interior as well. RS logos adorn the seats, steering wheel, door sill trims and the selector lever.

Special RS displays in the Audi virtual cockpit provide information on tyre pressure, torque and g-forces. A shift light prompts the driver to upshift upon reaching the rev limit. The RS design package uses red as a vibrant contrasting colour. Package highlights are the steering wheel, selector lever and knee pads in Alcantara plus seat belts contoured in red and floor mats with the RS emblem. Audi Sport offers Sonoma green metallic as an exclusive paint finish for the RS 5 Coupé.

A comprehensive range of infotainment choices is sure to keep everyone on board entertained. The optional MMI navigation plus with MMI touch includes the hardware module Audi connect, which connects the new RS 5 Coupé to the internet via LTE. Thanks to the Audi connect SIM, which is permanently installed in the car, the flat rate data package for the connect services including Europe-wide roaming is free of charge for three years. Passengers can go online with their mobile devices via the Wi-Fi hotspot option. The Audi smartphone interface uses Apple Car Play and Android Auto to make selected apps available in a separate MMI menu. Control is easy and intuitive, thanks to natural language voice control, free text search and the multifunction steering wheel.

The touchpad in the centre console is used to zoom, scroll and enter characters. Further high-end technologies, such as the head-up display and as many as 30 driver assistance systems enhance safety, comfort and efficiency. The intelligent interplay between these systems represents another step on the road to piloted driving.

Over 13,000 units of the first-generation Audi RS 5 Coupé have been delivered to customers since 2010.

ENHANCED UK SPECIFICATION FOR ALL-NEW AUDI RS 5 COUPÉ

New lighter, faster RS coupé to join UK Audi range with exceptional specification including valuable upgrades to dynamics and infotainment

All-new RS 5 Coupé available to order later this month priced from £62,900 OTR – first deliveries later this summer
New 2.9 TFSI with 450PS and 600Nm of torque from 1,900 – 5,000rpm
0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds, 155mph top speed which can be increased to 174mph
Audi Virtual Cockpit with RS-specific displays and quattro sport rear differential fitted as standard to UK versions
Combined 32.5mpg and 197g/km of CO₂ – a 17 per cent reduction
quattro all-wheel drive, wheel selective torque control and Audi drive select as standard
Overall weight reduction of up to 60kg
Optional carbon fibre roof and fully milled wheels
RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control, RS exhaust system and dynamic steering also available
State-of-the-art driver assistance, safety and connectivity systems

Precision shares equal billing with power in the all-new Audi RS 5 Coupé, and this is particularly true of UK-bound examples which benefit from an enhanced specification bringing the pin-sharp clarity of the Audi Virtual Cockpit and the optimal handling adjustability delivered by the Audi sport differential as standard. The new high performance, high technology coupé with its advanced new 450PS V6 biturbo TFSI becomes available in the UK later this month priced from £62,900 OTR, and will touch down here later in the summer.

With 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft) of torque, the new 2.9-litre V6 holds a 170Nm advantage over its naturally aspirated predecessor, and delivers it to the tune of a charismatic soundtrack reminiscent of the V6 TFSI powering the original B5 RS 4. The top model in the A5 family sprints from 0 to 62mph in just 3.9 seconds and with the optional dynamic package reaches a top speed of 174mph.

Two turbochargers positioned centrally between the cylinder banks guarantee exceptional response throughout the rev range, and combustion technology employing the B-cycle process with central direct injection ushers in a new level of efficiency for an RS model. Aided by a 60kg overall weight reduction versus the outgoing car, the V6 biturbo is capable of up to 32.5mpg combined, corresponding to 197 grams of CO₂ per km – an efficiency gain of 17 percent over the previous model.

quattro with sport differential

The biturbo’s copious power is deftly managed by the eight-speed tiptronic transmission with optimised shift times and by the reworked five-link front and all-new five-link rear RS-specific suspension, which is of course supported by quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The centre differential-based system distributes drive forces in a 40:60 front-to-rear ratio favouring dynamic handling with optimal traction, and in UK specification models is augmented by the quattro sport differential, which also apportions torque optimally between the rear wheels to promote even greater handling adjustability.

For the most committed drivers Audi Sport also offers optional RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), ceramic brakes and dynamic steering with RS-specific tuning.

Pronounced air intakes, gaping oval exhaust tailpipes, quattro blisters complementing widened wheel arches and an exclusive honeycomb design for the single frame grille are among the features that render the elegantly updated A5 body fit to bear the RS badge. In this latest model, the look can also be further enhanced by new features such as a full carbon roof and by bundled appearance packs that accentuate the sill strips, mirror cappings and diffuser insert. The standard LED headlamps with their dynamic scrolling indicators can also be upgraded to Matrix LED units capable of intelligently diverting their high beam around oncoming and leading traffic for maximum illumination, and for maximum visual impact the sizeable 19-inch alloy wheels can also be upgraded to a 20-inch design.

Defining features also abound in the upscale and lavishly appointed interior. Fine Nappa leather-upholstered RS sport seats position the driver perfectly in relation to the flat-bottomed multifunction sport steering wheel and the tiptronic selector lever with its RS insignia. When the start button is pressed the exceptionally sharp and richly detailed graphics of the RS-specific, fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit come to life. This standard feature of UK RS 5 models features a customisable display incorporating special RS screens providing information on tyre pressure, torque and g-forces. The list of driver assistants that feature as standard also includes the Audi side assist blindspot monitoring system, Audi hill hold assist and the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system offering fine-tuning of engine response, transmission shift points, steering weighting and the operating characteristics of the quattro system and sport differential.

On the infotainment front, the RS 5 Coupé comes equipped as standard with the Audi Smartphone Interface bringing Apple Carplay and Android Auto on board, and with MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, which now also includes LTE internet connectivity as part of the Audi connect package. Thanks to the embedded Audi connect SIM, the flat rate data package for the connect services including Europe-wide roaming is free of charge for three years.

Further high-end technologies, including a head-up display and as many as 30 driver assistance systems are available from the options list to help the RS 5 remove even more layers of stress from every journey and leave drivers free to immerse themselves as fully as possible in the performance.