quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
Don’t want to go far?
Find all cars near me?quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
Overall Rating
Being the most powerful iteration of the A5 and S5 series, the RS5 gets a 2.9L twin turbo V6 engine making 425hp
The RS5 is a huge improvement that follows the lines of the S5 Coupe. For the model year 2019, the sporty coupe gets sharp exterior styling and an updated, albeit smaller six-cylinder engine. Most segments that the German automobile giants compete in are overly competitive, and the same goes for the two door luxury sports coupe segment, with the BMW M4, Mercedes-AMG E 53, and the Lexus RC F, inspiring great improvements in one another, as well as adding extreme amounts of rivalry and character into the segment.
As mentioned above, each car brings with it its own personality, arguably one of the most imperative factors when it comes to deciding between such marvels of performance and luxury. The Audi RS5 is rather gung-ho when it comes to the apparent lines along the chassis, not to mention the combative air intake and grille. Added customisations include a sporty looking carbon fiber roof too. This aggressive styling and nature is well maintained in the driving traits and interior, although in a tame civilised manner.
Absolutely. Since there is just the one trim level to pick from, we do recommend buying it as it is one of the best cars to come out of the Audi stables today. Whether your intent is to get an extremely sporty car or not, the RS5 can surely sort you out, with its more sporty appearance packages getting parts like a carbon fiber roof. Its grand tourer characteristics are highlighted in the not-very sporty appearance packages. The car still looks quite aggressive but in a more docile manner, with a whiff of elegance accentuated by the all new Sonoma Green exterior colour.
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
TFSI quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl 8A)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
quattro 4dr Sportback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8AM)
Being the most powerful iteration of the A5 and S5 series, the RS5 gets a 2.9L twin turbo V6 engine making 425hp
The RS5 is a huge improvement that follows the lines of the S5 Coupe. For the model year 2019, the sporty coupe gets sharp exterior styling and an updated, albeit smaller six-cylinder engine. Most segments that the German automobile giants compete in are overly competitive, and the same goes for the two door luxury sports coupe segment, with the BMW M4, Mercedes-AMG E 53, and the Lexus RC F, inspiring great improvements in one another, as well as adding extreme amounts of rivalry and character into the segment.
As mentioned above, each car brings with it its own personality, arguably one of the most imperative factors when it comes to deciding between such marvels of performance and luxury. The Audi RS5 is rather gung-ho when it comes to the apparent lines along the chassis, not to mention the combative air intake and grille. Added customisations include a sporty looking carbon fiber roof too. This aggressive styling and nature is well maintained in the driving traits and interior, although in a tame civilised manner.
There is only one trim to the RS5 and it comes standard with the Quattro rear differential and RS sport suspension. The huge 19-inch wheels are great for precise control and steering.
Model |
Audi RS5 |
---|---|
MSRP |
$75,195 |
Key features |
Leather Wrapped Flat-Bottomed Steering Wheel |
12-way Power Adjustable Sport Seats |
|
Auto-Park, Road Sign Recognition, and Adaptive Cruise Control | |
Optional: Heated Rear Seats | |
Optional: Driver HUD | |
Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
Power Liftgate | |
Wireless Charging | |
Optional: Nappa Leather Package | |
Heated Front Seats |
We Recommend
Absolutely. Since there is just the one trim level to pick from, we do recommend buying it as it is one of the best cars to come out of the Audi stables today. Whether your intent is to get an extremely sporty car or not, the RS5 can surely sort you out, with its more sporty appearance packages getting parts like a carbon fiber roof. Its grand tourer characteristics are highlighted in the not-very sporty appearance packages. The car still looks quite aggressive but in a more docile manner, with a whiff of elegance accentuated by the all new Sonoma Green exterior colour.
The folks over at Audi decided to take something very dear away from driving enthusiasts. The V8 engine has been replaced with a 2.9 liter twin-turbo V6. While the new engine may not have the sheer brawn possessed by the V8, the downsized engine put out a respectable 444 horses, just 6 short of the larger V8. Moreover, the twin-turbo setup is efficiently programmed to the point that the V6 produces significantly more torque than the previous engine, increasing urban driveability as well.
There is no doubting Audi and its Quattro AWD system, so we just revel in the technological excellence of the system while abusing the vast amounts of traction presented to us through a lightning quick 8-speed gearbox. The RS5 Sportback handles just as you would expect it to, and never seems to let up its grip in adverse weather conditions either, although bad roads seem to give it slight trouble at times. In an age where Audi vehicles are described as numb due to their precise nature, the RS5 does well to provide such levels of exhilaration despite the ease at which the car carries out its duties.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$75,195 |
$70,145 |
$73,700 |
$64,650 |
Engine |
Gas V8, 6.2L |
3.0L I-6 Twin Turbo Premium Unleaded |
3.0L Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric I-6 |
5.0L DOHC 32V V8 VVT-iE |
Transmission |
6-Speed Manual |
6 Speed Manual |
6-Speed Manual |
8-Speed Automatic |
Horsepower |
444 hp @ 5700 rpm |
425 hp@ 5500rpm |
429 hp @6100 rpm |
467 hp @ 7100 rpm |
Torque |
443 lb-ft @ 1900 rpm |
406 ft-lbs@ 1850 rpm |
384 lb.-ft. @1800 rpm |
389 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm |
If it wasn’t for the high-revving VVT-iE engine under the hood of the Lexus RC F, the RS 5 would take its rightful place at the top as king of the powertrains. Alas, the 7100 rpm limit of the Lexus makes for a class leading output of 467 horsepower, seconded by the Audi RS5 and its V6. The German manufacturer does show off its superiority in terms of twisting force, as the 443 lb-ft torque rating of the Audi RS5 is the highest among its competitors. The BMW M4 has a competent powertrain, and appeases enthusiasts with a tasty 6-speed manual on offer, leaving the AMG E 53 Coupe for last. The Merc does however, produce more horsepower than the BMW M4, but falls behind the competition when it comes to twisting force and driveability.
The Audi RS5 looks to boss rival vehicles when it comes to straight line speed, with a rapidly spooling twin turbo setup that produces 444 horses. Combine that with the Quattro drivetrain and you will find yourself wary of spilling your coffee.
The acceleration is by no means breakneck, but gradually increases until you hit the 60 mph mark in under four seconds, realising just how intense this car is when it comes to performance. To put it into perspective, the enthusiast's choice - M4 does the same sprint in 4.3 seconds, while the AMG and Lexus both take 4.4 seconds.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
3.9 sec |
4.3 sec |
4.4 sec |
4.4 sec |
Quarter mile |
12.0 sec |
12.1 sec |
12.8 sec |
12.7 sec |
Over a standing quarter mile, the results begin to differ. The RS5 still holds its own at the end of the race, finishing the quarter mile in 12 seconds flat, followed by the BMW M4 which takes just a tenth of a second longer. The third German rival seems to be quashed under the might of the RC F and its similar minded manufacturer from across the pond. Both the E 53 Coupe and Lexus RC F show a priority towards luxury and comfort over performance. Nevertheless, the high revving RC F narrowly beats the Mercedes-Benz coupe over a quarter mile.
Now this aspect of the RS5 causes undue complications when it comes to the exact classification of this car. The Audi RS5 has everything it takes to be called a blitz of a sports coupe, but has enough ride comfort to qualify as a grand tourer. Moreover, the interior is luxurious enough to completely disregard the RS badging, if it weren’t for the red accents all around the cabin. Whether it be short or long distances, the Audi RS5 does not induce any fatigue when driving. It can be driven in both extremes as well as in a balanced manner, owing to a responsive powertrain and some hefty brakes. It is also worth mentioning the seats, which find the perfect balance between body holding and body support, allowing for complete comfort through the twisties, as well as a grin when you decide to floor the throttle through a corner.
In city limits the torque comes in handy, as quick or sudden maneuvers are also carried out with a certain seamlessness. Having 444 horses does come with its problems though. The high torque rating makes for an engine that just begs for more speed, making it difficult but far from impossible to maintain speeds and resist the urge to just floor it for the sake of it. Even from low revs, the car is quite jumpy and you could find yourself at dangerously high speeds in a school district if you’re not being careful.
Easily one of the most imperative aspects to consider when buying a performance oriented vehicle, especially one as capable as the RS5. The weight characteristics of the cars remain similar across the comparison range, ergo similar brak sizes are seen. The Lexus RC F and BMW M4 Coupe house the largest front brake rotors, measuring 15” in diameter. The M4 maintains this urgency for shedding speed in its 14.6” rear brake rotors. The Audi RS5 does house competent brake discs in the front, but uses relatively small 13” rotors for the rear wheels. Nevertheless, you never feel at a loss of braking ability, as there is plenty of bite from the brakes, allowing you to shed speed quite rapidly.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brake Front (in.) |
14.8 |
15.0 |
14.6 |
15.0 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
13.0 |
14.6 |
14.2 |
13.6 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
3968 |
3925 |
- |
3958 |
70-0 MPH (ft.) |
NA |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
The Twin-turbo V6 engine gives you great economy compared to the gas guzzling V8s. In the city the mileage you get peaks to 18 miles to the gallon, while at highway speeds the economy reaches up to 26 mpg, giving you the combined mpg of 21.
Model |
Audi RS 5 coupe Quattro |
BMW M4 coupe |
Mercedes AMG E63 coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
18 |
18 |
21 |
16 |
MPG (highway) |
26 |
25 |
28 |
25 |
MPG (combined) |
21 |
20 |
23 |
19 |
The Lexus RC F manages to keep fuel in its tank delivering 16 miles to the gallon in the city and 25 mpg on highways. The main competitor, the BMW M4 gives quite similar economy to the Audi RS5, with the numbers not far behind.
As far as the interior design goes, Audi gets full points for providing the necessary amount of luxury for a car priced north of $70,000. The cabin is roomy enough and has plenty of reminders of the typical Audi cockpit design, as well as some interesting sporty additions and finishes across the dashboard and seats.
The Germans definitely know their seats, and you can expect brilliant fitting and finishing across the dashboard. Non-touchscreen based functions feel solid and aren’t tacky at all.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger capacity |
4 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
39.0/55.3/41.3 |
39.8/55.3/42.2 |
40.7/56.1/ - |
37.8/50.7/45.4 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) |
36.1/50.7/32.7 |
36.1/55.7/33.7 |
36.4/48.3/ - |
36.4/48.3/27.3 |
In terms of pure seating space, the Audi RS5 does well to accommodate adults the best it can. However, it still falls behind the competition. The Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe offers the most headroom in the front, making it a good choice for the taller buyers out there. The tallest of customers should probably stick to the drop top. The Japanese Coupe offers the most front legroom at 45.5”, making up for its relatively low headroom. The back seat isn’t really the most spacious across the segment, but the RS5 and M4 are designed quite smartly, offering 32.7” and 33.7” of legroom respectively. To put it into perspective, the Lexus only offers 27.3” of rear legroom. The rear seat in the RS5 is narrow though and is best suitable for kids or just the one adult if you’re looking for complete comfort.
The RS5 fails to top the comparison table in any interior measurement, but don’t let that fool you. The RS5 is fairly spacious, but feels even more so, courtesy of some intelligent planning and design.
Interior features:
The RS5 coupe is an Audi after all, which means the cabin is decked out with some interesting features, and clever technology.
Moreover, the UI and general workings of all tech systems are quite intuitive and easy to work with. Combining tech and opulence, the Audi RS5 has plenty to offer:
Unfortunately manufacturers cannot promise much when it comes to practicality in a coupe. In a bid to make these luxury coupes comfortable enough, other parts of the car lose out on volume. To be specific, the trunk gets affected the most in order to make for a semi-comfortable backseat? Jokes aside, the Audi RS5 leads the competition with 11.6 cubic feet of storage volume in the trunk, speaking volumes about the clever use of space over at Audi. The BMW M4 can store up to 11 cubic feet, while the Mercedes-AMG stores 9.5 cu-ft. The Lexus RC F offers exactly 10.1 cubic feet of storage room. Considering the limited cargo space in these vehicles, it is advisable to use the rear seat as a more conveniently accessible storage area anyway.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
Cargo Volume (ft.3) |
11.6 |
11 |
9.5 |
10.1 |
Audi rarely disappoints when it comes to looks. Although their vehicles are limited as to how far the design strays from the front fascia that we see when we hear or say “Audi''. The current RS5 is beautifully designed, with aggressive inserts like the grille and wide fenders. With the optional alloys, the car really pops out on the roads due to its vibrance and peculiar look, which screams Audi but begs for a second look to confirm.
With the V6 growl, twin-turbo and raspy exhaust note, the Audi RS5 sure is a presence on the road that can be felt from a fair distance away. The flared proportions also make for an imposing look that only misleads you, as the chassis is actually quite compact, allowing for tight maneuvers and a worry-free drive.
Model |
2019 Audi RS5 |
2019 BMW M4 |
2019 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe |
2019 Lexus RC F |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight (lbs.) |
3968 |
3925 |
- |
3958 |
Length(in) |
186 |
184.5 |
176.2 |
190.6 |
Width(in) |
73.4 |
73.6 |
73 |
73.2 |
Height(in) |
53.5 |
54.4 |
55.5 |
56.2 |
Wheelbase(in) |
108.9 |
110.7 |
113.1 |
107.5 |
The Mercedes-AMG E 53 Coupe is the longest of the lot - only fitting for the most pompous of manufacturers. The RC F has the cutest proportions in comparison to the more beefy German coupes, among which the BMW M4 is the widest.
Exterior features
Apart from the obvious powertrain overhaul, the Audi RS5 gets quite a few cosmetic changes coming into 2019, including:
The Audi RS 5 has not been rated by the IIHS yet, and the NHTSA also has an incomplete set of results. The Coupe has not been tested at all, but the Sportback has undergone the rollover test, yielding 5 stars that can also be awarded to the coupe for its obvious similarities. Nevertheless, the Audi RS 5 is packed with safety features, traction control systems, and driver assistance programs listed below:
The M4 comes with some of the best looks BMW has to offer, along with a tastefully chosen powertrain, chassis, and suspension setup. With the additional manual transmission option, the M4 is certainly one of the best options when it comes to tearing down the track in full form. There is a glaring gap between target consumers when it comes to the RS5 and M4, as the former shows off its combination of performance and comfort in its grand tourer characteristics.
It does remain extremely hard to choose between the two. They are both equally eager performers catering to separate ends of the adult population, and would finish very close in any head-to-head battle.
The Audi RS5 probably blows the Benz out of the water with its performance figures, and does plenty well to offer the levels of comfort it does. The RS5 coupe shows an urgency towards catching speeds, and has a torquey motor to prove it. But don’t write off the E 53 Coupe just yet.
The RS5 again does well to offer the luxury it does, but the Silver Star has a reputation to uphold, which it does. On offer is a heavy mile muncher that is nimble, but only to the point that comfort is maintained. The cabin atmosphere and powertrain come together for a more relaxed, cruiser-vibe that really works due to the quality of material, speakers, noise insulation and laid-back driving feel.
Despite delivering that much luxury, the E 53 Coupe manages to keep up with the RS5 and BMW M4, offering real value for money for those who need the peace of mind when they do their own driving.
The Lexus RC F does well to try and match the standards set by the three German giants in this segment. Some would even say the Japanese have done better in terms of balancing luxury and performance. Nevertheless, the naturally aspirated V8 remains a relic of the past and only fit for the real enthusiast and nothing more. A turbocharged setup could help the engine reach the heights it can, and the current setup does the environment no favours either.
However, considering the Toyota ties and the consequent assurance of reliability, the Lexus could do better than its competitors in the market as a less costly car to maintain, but tell that to the gas guzzler tax should you ever find yourself paying it, because the RS5 owners probably won’t.