For performance enthusiasts who want everyday usability combined with track-ready excitement, the Audi RS 5 Quattro is a dream machine. This high-performance coupe combines Audi’s legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system with a choice of potent engines, sophisticated interiors, and bold styling.
Buying a pre-owned Audi RS 5 allows shoppers to enjoy all the thrills of a modern sports car at a fraction of its original price. Whether you’re considering the growl of the first-generation V8 or the twin-turbo V6 efficiency of the second generation, the RS 5 delivers a driving experience that competes with the best from BMW’s M division and Mercedes-AMG.
Everything you need to know about the Audi RS 5 Quattro, including its generational differences, performance specs, features, and what to look out for when buying used.
History of the Audi RS 5 Quattro
The Audi RS 5 made its debut as the performance-tuned version of the A5 lineup, developed by Audi Sport. It was designed to compete with rivals like the BMW M4 and Mercedes-AMG C 63, but with an edge — Audi’s Quattro AWD system, which delivered superior all-weather traction.
2013–2015: First Generation (Coupe Only)
The RS 5 launched in the U.S. with a naturally aspirated 4.2L V8. Its reputation grew quickly thanks to its high-revving nature, thrilling exhaust note, and sharp handling. It featured unique RS styling cues like widened fenders, sporty bumpers, and an automatic rear spoiler.
2018–2024: Second Generation (Coupe and Sportback)
Audi brought back the RS 5 after a short gap, this time powered by a twin-turbo 2.9L V6. While it lost two cylinders, it gained quicker acceleration, more torque, and modern efficiency. The addition of the Sportback body style gave buyers a more practical option. A mid-cycle refresh in 2021 sharpened its design, and the Competition Trim added track-focused upgrades like firmer suspension and a sport exhaust.
The RS 5 has since cemented itself as a luxury performance icon, delivering everyday usability without sacrificing track-ready thrills.
Specs and Features of the Audi RS 5 Quattro
The Audi RS 5 Quattro is a luxury performance car that blends power, agility, and refinement. It has evolved across two generations, each offering unique strengths. To better understand what this model delivers, let’s look at its specs and features in detail.
Engine and Powertrain
The Audi RS 5 Quattro packs a potent 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 444 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. It has propelled the coupe or Sportback from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Its eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission shifts seamlessly to maximize acceleration while offering manual paddle controls for spirited drives.
Quattro all-wheel drive with torque vectoring sends up to 85 percent of power to the rear wheels, enhancing grip and agility during cornering. An optional dynamic package boosts the top speed to 174 mph, making it a track-ready beast.
High-end Interior
The Audi RS 5 Quattro’s cabin elevates luxury with hand-stitched Nappa leather across the dashboard, doors, and seats, complemented by carbon-fiber or aluminum accents that add a tactile premium feel. Soft-touch surfaces and double-stitched seams ensure every interaction feels refined.
Standard Sport Seats
Honeycomb-stitched sport front seats in excellent Nappa leather support occupants with forceful bolsters. Power-adjustable side bolsters fit bespoke, integrated heating warms up rapidly on cold mornings, and optional massage functions relieve tiredness on lengthy trips. These seats are firm for performance and soft for comfort.
Virtual Cockpit
Audi’s Virtual Cockpit in the RS 5 Quattro transforms the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster into a high-tech command center. It offers razor-sharp graphics that switch between classic analog dials and a full-screen navigation map with real-time traffic overlays. RS-specific modes display turbo boost pressure, torque distribution, and lap timers, pulling data directly from the car’s sensors for instant performance insights.
Infotainment
The RS 5 Quattro’s MMI infotainment system has a snappy 10.1-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback enabling intuitive taps to navigate, play media, and set car settings. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirror your phone for hands-free calls and music streaming. The standard Bang & Olufsen premium sound system delivers 755 watts through 19 speakers to fill the cabin with pristine highs and deep bass.
Audi Drive Select
Audi Drive Select in the RS 5 Quattro lets drivers customize throttle response in five modes—Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency, and Individual. In sport mode, the suspension lowers by up to 0.8 inches and stiffens dampers to hug the road, while steering weight hardens up for an accurate turn sensation.
Distinctive RS Styling
The RS 5 Quattro grabs attention with a bold front grille and big air intakes that cool the brakes and engine. Sharp LED headlights sit on the sides. Flared wheel arches widen the stance to 77.6 inches for a strong look. RS badges and a small hood scoop hint at its power. Smooth side lines flow to quad exhaust tips in the rear. This creates a sporty style that sets it apart from standard A5 models while keeping an elegant touch.
Advanced Driver Assistance
The RS 5 Quattro includes smart safety features like adaptive cruise control. It keeps a safe distance and handles stop-and-go traffic by steering and accelerating below 40 mph. Forward collision warning uses radar and cameras to spot obstacles and applies emergency braking if needed. Lane-keeping assist nudges the wheel to stay in your lane. All these show up on the Virtual Cockpit for easy checks. They add safety without slowing the fun drive.
A Smart Buy for Performance Enthusiasts
A pre-owned Audi RS 5 Quattro offers one of the best blends of performance, luxury, and practicality in the used sports car market. Whether you choose the soulful V8 of the first generation or the explosive twin-turbo V6 of the second, the RS 5 delivers both thrills and refinement.
With its Quattro all-wheel drive, finely crafted interior, and cutting-edge performance, the RS 5 remains a standout choice for drivers who want a car that feels at home on both winding backroads and city streets.
If you’re looking for a luxury performance coupe or Sportback, the Audi RS 5 Quattro deserves a place at the top of your shopping list.
