We previously reported that Audi India is gearing up to launch the RS 5 Sportback in our country and today, the German carmaker has officially launched the manic performance-sedan at INR 1.04 Crore ex-showroom. With its progressive looks, sporty tuned suspension, and power-packed engine, the Audi RS 5 Sportback ticks all the right boxes for an enthusiast and for the uninitiated, it is a performance-oriented version of the tamer S5 that was recently launched at a price of ₹79.06 lakhs. The RS 5 Sportback won’t have it easy because it will have to go toe-to-toe against the likes of BMW M3 and Mercedes Benz C63 AMG.
The new RS 5 carries the styling updates which are applied to the new S5. At the front, the RS 5 range gets a wider & flatter single-frame grille, redesigned side sills and a set of optional LED matrix headlights which give it a bold appeal. In terms of design updates, the car also gets a fresh rear diffuser and front bumper, along with new air vents installed below the front grille to provide a much meaner look.
Specs and other mechanicals
The RS 5 is powered by the same 2.9-litre TFSI twin-turbo V6 engine that produces over 450 PS of power and 600 Nm of peak torque, which is almost 170 Nm more than its predecessor. This powerful V6 engine helps the car sprint from 0-100 km/hr in just 3.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 250 kph. The driver can choose between 2 RS modes through the Multifunction Steering Wheel, which calibrates the power curve of the engine, shifting of the transmission and steering sensitivity.
The Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, with a self-locking centre differential, optimises power delivery between the front and rear axles according to the driving conditions, thus providing ideal traction in virtually all scenarios. The acceleration of the engine is perfectly matched by the stopping power of the RS steel brakes with RS Black Brake Callipers, endowing the driver with utmost confidence to explore the vast performance of the Audi RS 5 Sportback. Perfectly tuned to complement the performance of the engine, the RS sports suspension has been honed to offer superlative dynamic handling on the road.
Interior
On the inside, the cars get a new 10.1-inch MMI infotainment display with touchscreen functionality and large aluminium paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. The RS badging is present on the centre console, armrest & seat belt.
Official statement
Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Balbir Singh Dhillon, Head of Audi India, said, “We are thrilled to launch the sporty spearhead of the product line – the Audi RS 5 Sportback in India. The Audi RS 5 is coming to India as a Sportback, for the very first time and will be the perfect choice for customers who want the Audi RS DNA in addition to everyday practicality. The Audi RS 5 Sportback is a superlative all-rounder, which is built with just the right mix of aggressive styling, heart-pumping performance, and opulent luxury which will garner tremendous affinity with performance car customers and existing Audi customers in India.”
Mr. Dhillon further added, “We have witnessed good traction for all our Sports models, across the country and with the advent of the Audi RS 5 Sportback, we look forward to fueling the appetite for performance cars. This is our fifth launch of the year and I can assure you this won’t be our last – stay tuned for a lot more action from brand Audi in India.”