The RS5 is the latest Quattro in Audi’s Renn Sport series in the A5 range. An upgraded VF, the four-seater coupé is expected to release sometime later this year.
Sporting a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the car boosts from 0-97km/h in 4 seconds flat, with a breathtaking top speed of 280 km/h. It allows reasonable but not great manoeuvrability for turning sharp corners. Audi also recently acquired Italian super-bike brand Ducati; perhaps that’s why the RS5 features wave brake motors with optional ceramic front brakes.
Sitting at 15 feet long, 6 feet wide and 4.5 inches tall, this vehicle is no small matter. Since it weighs over 4000 pounds it needs the 450hp punch it packs. On the bright side, its suspension lies low to the ground to provide a low center of gravity. LEDs form the tail lights and border the headlights. It has a honeycomb grill with 19-inch wheels and its rugged exterior only adds to its monstrous looks and aggressive appeal.
With comfortable sports seats and a flat-bottomed steering wheel, optional features include: Audi Connect (which can provide Wi-Fi to eight devices), a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and Google Earth navigation graphics. Moreover, the driver can individually monitor steering effort, throttle response, transmission shift points and exhaust using the ‘Drive Select’ with an optional telematics interface.
Audi’s release date would put the RS5 up against BMW’s M3 and Mercedes Benz’s E550 convertible. However, experts opine there is no competition, especially taking into consideration the hefty $70,000 price tag.