RS5 Coupe

Make
Audi
Segment
Coupe

From the all-new RS Q8 to the RS6 Avant, Audi Sport has unveiled a slew of new and updated RS models this year. The performance division isn't done yet either, because the Audi RS5 Coupe and Audi RS5 Sportback have been updated for the 2021 model year, skipping over the 2020, with sharper styling and new tech.

To give the RS5 a more refined look, the Singleframe grille is wider and flatter, matching the look of its larger RS6 and RS7 siblings. New air vents positioned above the grille also hark back to the classic Audi Sport quattro from 1984. The wheel arches are also 1.6 inches wider, giving the RS5 a more muscular appearance, while the optional matrix LED headlights with Audi laser lights feature darkened bezels to set the RS model apart from the regular A5 and the large contoured air inlets have been given a new, pentagonal shape. Elsewhere, the side sills and the rear diffuser housing the dual exhaust system have also been redesigned.

The four rings and RS logos can be designed in black as an option and new exterior colors include Turbo blue and Tango red. The RS5 Coupe is also fitted with a carbon roof with a CFRP fiber structure that reduces the car's weight by just under 8.8 pounds. Both models ride on 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option.

"The revision of the RS5 Coupe and RS5 Sportback marks the successful conclusion of our 25th anniversary and the renewal of our model range," said Oliver Hoffmann, Managing Director of Audi Sport. "Thanks to the standard permanent quattro drive, they occupy a special position in their segment."

Inside, the RS sport seats are covered with Alcantara and leather as standard, or optional fine Nappa leather. An RS design package with red or gray accents is also available, while the steering wheel, selector lever and knee pads are fitted with Alcantara covers with red or gray contrasting stitching.

Both the RS5 Coupe and RS5 Sportback have been updated with a new infotainment system featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen. An optional Audi virtual cockpit with a 12.3-inch display also allows the driver to select between multiple screens, including an RS-specific performance design that displays the maximum g-acceleration values. The optional head-up display also offers exclusive RS graphics.

Don't expect any changes under the hood, however. Like last year's models, the 2021 Audi RS5 Coupe and Sportback are powered by a 2.9 twin-turbo V6 producing 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. 0-62 mph in both models takes 3.9 seconds before topping out at 174 mph. Sales of the revised RS5 models will start shortly in Germany and other European countries, with prices starting at €83,500 ($92,502). Hopefully, it won't be long until Audi announces pricing and availability for the US equivalents.