You might struggle to find one of Audi’s limited edition RS 3 vehicles, but the new RS 5 PHEV — the company’s “first high-performance plug-in hybrid’ — should be an easier proposition. Once it becomes available in South Africa, at any rate.
That may take a while, though. The RS 5 PHEV has been announced for Europe so far, with a starting price of R2.08 million (€106,200) for the sedan model and R2.11 million (€107,850) for the RS 5 Avant. It’ll ship to that region this year, but South African availability isn’t known.
Ride the lightning RS 5
Since it’s an Audi, you’re likely to pay attention to the engine first. The German company is sticking a 375kW 2.9-litre V6 twin-turbo inside the RS 5, augmenting it with a 130kW electric motor. That’ll give drivers 470kW (even if the math isn’t mathing) of output. Running purely on the electric motor renders 80km of range. Plus, stealth capabilities.
The front end is designed with airflow in mind, while a selection of RS-branded additions has this vehicle ready for the track. That’s where you’re supposed to drive it like a maniac. RS sport exhausts and suspension, the latter featuring twin-valve shocks, and RS-spec steering should help drivers make their corners. An eight-speed hybrid gearbox, rear aerodynamic diffuser, and “a completely new rear transaxle with electro-mechanical torque vectoring – a world first in a production model” should also help.
Audi’s new PHEV will take drivers up to 285km/h, but they’ll have to pay for it. The increased top speed comes as part of the company’s Sport package, which also adds custom front and rear bumpers and “two-tone diamond-cut phantom black 21-inch wheels with matte accents.” The package also spruces up the interior with unique “Serpentine green and brass’ stitching. Exterior elements include customised paint jobs, including a new metallic Bedford green (whatever that is) finish. RS ceramic brakes and bronze calipers are also included. Obviously, you’re supposed to opt for the greener hues for the best visual effect.
The RS 5’s interior sports one of Audi’s 14.5in MMI touch displays, optimised for track days. It can, according to the company, “analyze and store sector times” — preferably not while you’re taking laps.
Audi has loads more detail on the interplay between its electric and traditional motors at its official announcement.
