How the 2026 Audi RS 5 Defies Physics and Shakes Weight's Hand

The 2026 Audi RS 5 makes its appearance as a high-performance plug-in hybrid.
It includes the first electromechanical torque vectoring system available in mass production.
The combined system output is 470 kW (639 PS) and delivers 825 Nm of torque.
The car speeds up from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds.
New dual-valve adjustable shocks assist in controlling the vehicle's 2,370 kg mass.

I still recall when the main issue people had with electric vehicles was that "they are too heavy." That was indeed accurate five years ago, but with technological advancements and more stringent emissions rules, automakers have had to make changes. Advanced active and adaptive suspension systems are now essential for managing the weight from the hybrid batteries, and as the 2026 Audi RS 5 shows, torque vectoring is the next step.

It's somewhat unusual that the 2025 Audi RS 6 Avant Performance (2,150 kg) I tested last year is lighter than theNew Audi RS 5 Avant (2,370 kg). However, while the RS 6 boasts raw, traditional power, the RS 5 compensates with advanced technology, featuring smart Quattro controls that distribute power in 15ms and enable immediate torque from the electric motor (located within the gearbox) that can provide 130 kW (177 PS) and 460 Nm of torque independently. When the boost button is activated, it works in conjunction with the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine to produce a470 kW (639 PS) total system output and 825 Nm of torque.

The latest Audi RS 5 is capable of accelerating from0-100km/h in 3.6 seconds(0.2 seconds faster than the previous model), but we won't know if it offers a more enjoyable driving experience until we actually take it for a spin. Until then, let's explore the new RS 5 in detail, as it gives a glimpse into the future of (heavier) performance sedans and wagons.

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How does it handle and ride?

This is the first time we have encountered "Electromechanical Torque Vectoring,"which sounds very German. However, we're told that this is intended to make the car more versatile and enjoyable to drive.

The system utilizes a specialized 8 kW electric motor located in the rear transaxle instead of conventional mechanical differentials that respond to wheel slip. It is capable of distributing up to 2,000 Nm of torque between the left and right rear wheels within 15 milliseconds,meaningit may compel the heavy vehicle to perform actions that physics cannot facilitate, for example, pivot into corners and prevent understeer from occurring.

The new high-performance plug-in hybrid marks the peak of the A5 model series," said Gernot Döllner (CEO, Audi). "Our newly created quattro drivetrain featuring Dynamic Torque Control is the first electromechanical torque vectoring system in a production car. The advanced technical integration of the internal combustion engine and electric power creates a new combination of performance and efficiency at Audi. Customers will enjoy both high levels of sportiness and daily comfort.

It's an extraordinary example of technical skill, but it's nothing without thenew twin-valve adaptive dampersthat assist in managing the 2,370 kg cart as it redistributes its weight.

I would have preferred to see the brand's active suspension incorporated into the vehicle, but it's probable that this would have only increased the weight. The new twin-valve shock absorbers operate on a similar principle: they manage compression and rebound separately, enabling the car to quickly firm up the outer suspension during high lateral G-forces to minimize body roll while maintaining a smooth ride on straightaways.

How is Power Handled?

This directly tackles the primary issue we faced with theeven more substantial, bigger BMW M5 Touring. Wagons are intended to be the ultimate two-in-one sports cars, but when the suspension is rigid and uncomfortable during your morning drive, it undermines the entire idea. In theory, the Audi RS 5 addresses this issue.

The RS 5 and its groundbreaking drive system signify the start of a new chapter for our RS models," stated Rolf Michl (Managing Director, Audi Sport). "They introduce a higher degree of performance to the driving features that our customers appreciate and enhance everyday usability through electric operation and advanced technologies. A fresh take on the authentic RS experience.

So it can outperform physics in its own domain, but power can also be a challenge for PHEVs. Typically, the battery runs low, causing the combustion engine to work extremely hard. It revs intensely, trying to recharge the battery while simultaneously serving as the sole source of power.

To avoid this issue, Audi's software continuously monitors the battery's charge level. When you select "RS Sport" or the new, drift-focused "RS Torque Rear" mode, the vehicle actively cools the battery to 20°C and employs the internal combustion engine to keep the battery at 90% charge. This ensures that the electric torque vectoring and the 130 kW electric motor consistently have the necessary power to effectively conceal the car's weight.

When is it Coming?

The key takeaway is that you shouldn't fear a future in which larger, more technologically advanced vehicles are common on the roads.

Do we favor naturally aspirated V8 engines and manual gearboxes? Certainly, but that's not the current reality due to increasingly strict global emissions standards. It's remarkable when a manufacturer continues to use an engine, enhances performance on a platform, and improves a vehicle's capabilities despite the additional weight.

The order books for European customers will open during the first quarter of 2026, with initial customer deliveries planned to begin in the summer of 2026 (June–August). However, Australians will need to wait a bit longer, as official pricing in Australia has not been disclosed yet. The previous RS 5 Sportback and RS 4 Avant models were priced at AUD$168,015 and AUD$165,015, respectively, excluding on-road expenses. With the inclusion of the advanced plug-in hybrid system and current exchange rates (€106,200 translates to over AUD$177,000), a significant increase in price compared to the earlier model is anticipated.

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