2024 Audi RS5

Overview

The 2024 Audi RS5 is the max-performance version of Audi’s stylish luxury coupe, more muscular and aggressive than its S5 and A5 siblings. Its specs fall short of the rival BMW M4 coupe’s, but the RS5 still delivers an exciting driving experience with blistering acceleration, formidable handling, and strong braking. At the same time, it’s not too hardcore for daily driving. The nicely appointed interior has several sporty touches, and the rear seat is actually usable, despite the two-door configuration. The RS5 is also available as a four-door Sportback, which provides a bit more rear-seat space and easier access. We review that model separately.

What’s New for 2024?

The RS5 adds more standard equipment this year. This includes adaptive cruise control, active lane assist, and park assist. The Competition version loses its carbon-ceramic brakes, however, a change Audi blames on supply constraints. The optional navigation system adds traffic-sign recognition along with six months of Audi Connect Plus, which integrates outside apps into the multi-media interface. Color choices are largely the same, except that Progressive Red metallic replaces Tango Red metallic.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Formerly a hefty $16,100 more than the standard RS5, the Competition version (actually an option package) now commands a $10,300 upcharge, and at that price, it gets the nod. Although the RS5 Competition doesn’t add any additional muscle under the hood, it addresses some complaints that the RS5 isn’t involving enough. Its Sport exhaust system (also available separately) and reduced sound deadening make for a more scintillating engine note, the Sport Direct steering is superior to the base setup, and it brings an even more hardcore suspension that offers manual adjustment of ride height. We’d add the RS Driver Assistance package ($1500) for its head-up display and surround-view camera system, and we’d want blind-spot monitoring (Audi’s Side Assist package) for $500.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Under the RS5’s sinewy clamshell hood sits a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6 that pumps out 444 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The power routes through Audi’s rear-biased Quattro all-wheel-drive system via a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Floor the gas pedal and the coupe leaps ahead thanks to its all-wheel drive—it reached 60 mph in 3.5 seconds in our testing. Too bad the accompanying roar isn’t particularly inspiring, especially compared with how good the previous generation’s V-8 sounded. Opt for the Competition model, however, and the RS5 has a more extroverted exhaust note. Behind the wheel, the meanest version of Audi’s sports coupe is easy to control and enjoyable to exploit, with predictable, docile handling in both wet and dry conditions. The real beauty is how supremely comfortable the RS5 rides over distances short or long. While competitors such as the M4 demand more attention during spirited sessions, the Audi is still involving and intoxicating.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The 2024 RS5 is EPA rated at 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The mechanically identical RS5 Sportback shares those same estimates. When we put an RS5 through our 75-mph real-world highway fuel-economy test, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we’ll add our results. For more information about the RS5’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The RS5’s interior mixes an array of rich materials and high-tech equipment. The standard front sport seats, with their power side bolsters and honeycomb stitching, are supportive during cornering and comfy on road trips. They also feature massage functions to indulge the driver and front passenger. Every cabin includes a screen-based instrument cluster (Audi’s virtual cockpit), ambient interior lighting, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. Those who want an even fancier experience can choose the optional RS Design package, which replaces nappa leather with Alcantara and adds red highlights (it’s included on the Competition model). The RS5’s fantastic driving position and excellent visibility—for a coupe, at least—complement a back seat that will accommodate two adults of average height. While the coupe can’t carry as much luggage as the four-door RS5 Sportback that sports a rear hatchback, it still swallowed five of our carry-on suitcases inside its trunk.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Unlike updated Audi models such as the A6 and A7 sedans, the RS5 doesn’t have dual touchscreens that bisect its dashboard and center console. While that makes its infotainment system look less futuristic, we appreciate the RS5’s high-mounted 10.1-inch touchscreen. Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability come standard (CarPlay with a wireless connection) as does a 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and wireless phone charging. Navigation, however, is optional.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

While Audi supplies some standard driver-assistance technology, blind-spot monitoring and self-parking assist cost extra. For more information about the RS5 coupe’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Standard adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
• Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Audi provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty compared with luxury rivals such as Mercedes-Benz.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs