Audi
2026 Audi RS5: More dope on the BMW M3-rivaling plug-in hybrid sedan
When it comes to fast Audis, the RS4 is one of our favourites. The latest generation will be offered in both sedan and Avant body styles and will be called the RS5.
The 2026 Audi RS5 has already been spied testing in Europe. Although the prototypes were covered in heavy camouflage, there is enough evidence to confirm that these are no ordinary Audis.
The RS5 sedan (it won’t be called ‘Sportback’ anymore) has wider fenders at the front and rear, vents behind the front wheel arches, and a muscular rear end. Up front is the latest iteration of Audi’s Singleframe grille, which is flanked by slim LED headlamps and a sporty bumper with massive vents and cooling ducts.
With that out of the way, let’s now delve deeper into the upcoming RS5. According to a recent report, the RS5 will be Audi’s first model to use a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The car is likely to be powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, combined with the electric drive, it is estimated to produce upwards of 500 hp.
While the new RS5 with its plug-in hybrid setup will have a significant advantage over the pure V6-powered RS4, the added weight of the batteries will be a cause of concern.
The 2026 Audi RS5 will compete with the BMW M3 and the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance, which, incidentally, also packs a hybrid powertrain.
Source: Carscoops, @mr.grey_4k
