Audi is looking to compete with BMW's M-class and Mercedes' AMG brands with the new Audi Sport lineup, including the RS 5 Sportback.
Audi Sport, Audi’s high-performance line, launched its latest RS model – the Audi RS 5 Sportback – during the press days for the 2018 New York International Auto Show.
The RS 5 Sportback offers a balance of high design and driving dynamics and is scheduled to go on sale in the second half of 2018.
It’s latest model in the Audi Sport family, which was re-organized and re-branded last year to compete more directly and effectively with other German performance marquees, such as the BMW M-class series and Mercedes-Benz’s AMG Division.
Both the M-Series and AMG brands have been highly successful and continue to expand into new segments.
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The Audi RS 5 Sportback debuted at the New York International Auto Show.
Audi Sport introduced its first model at NYIAS in 2017 and two additional RS models based on the Audi TT and Audi A3 appeared last summer.
In the past, Audi Sport had been known as Quattro Gmbh. The new name more closely reflects the division’s mission, which also includes serving as the focus Audi’s customer racing activity and customization, according to Amalia Fine-Morrison, Audi spokeswoman. Audi Sport vehicles also have their own unique design cues inside and out and under the hood, she added.
“The reality is that Audi customers love performance,” she said.
“The Audi RS 5 Sportback is a completely new offer for our customers. Our progressive interpretation of a five-door high-performance coupe has neither a predecessor model nor a direct competitor,” noted Michael-Julius Renz, managing director of Audi Sport Gmbh.
“The Sportback offers the ultimate in functionality with maximum performance,” he said, adding
the 2.9-liter TFSI V6 biturbo engine delivers power, efficiency and distinct RS sound.
The new biturbo engine generates 444 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque available in a wide rev range from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm. The Audi RS 5 Sportback will dash from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds and achieves a top track speed of 155 mph, although that increases to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package.
The two turbochargers on the 2.9-liter engine of RS 5 are positioned directly inside the “V” promoting engine responsiveness and performance. acceleration with minimal slip and the standard quattro sport rear differential to maximize driving dynamics.
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The redesigned front five-link suspension with lightweight construction offers greater steering precision and improved handling through optimized steering-rack placement direct at wheel. The exterior design of the new Audi RS 5 Sportback picks up details from motorsport past and features direct design inspiration from the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO.
As with any vehicle that bears the RS badge, the RS 5 Sportback features development rooted in motorsport and technologies that embody the Audi Sport authenticity of “Born on the Track.
The RS 5 Sportback features a wide and flat single frame grille, large RS-specific honeycomb air intakes, matte alu-optic front spoiler with quattro script, matte alu-optic exterior mirror housings and high gloss black side sills. Enhancing the distinct and sporty rear, the Sportback features a RS-specific diffuser, oval RS exhaust pipes and a high gloss black rear-lip spoiler.
The interior of the RS 5 Sportback, with seating for five standard, includes RS accents and driver-focused technologies. The car features the Audi brand’s hallmark wing-design wrap-around dashboard with driver-oriented interior including user-friendly controls.
Within the cabin, the RS 5 Sportback 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.
While performance remains the highlight, the RS 5 Sportback also features advanced driver assistance systems designed to help drivers navigate the road with more confidence.
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The level of standard systems includes Audi pre sense basic, Audi pre sense city, Audi side assist, rear cross traffic assist and Audi pre sense rear, as well as available adaptive cruise control with stop & go and traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, Audi active lane assist and high beam assistant.