Audi RS5 For Sale

The Audi RS5 stands tall as the pinnacle of the A5 line-up, offering exhilarating performance in the segment to rival the Mercedes-AMG C63 S and BMW M4. Despite its high-performance nature, the RS5 visually remains closely tied to its A5 roots. The front boasts an assertively large grille flanked by functional air intakes, while extended side skirts and a tweaked rear bumper add a touch of muscularity. Its wheel arches are widened to accommodate wider tyres for enhanced grip. But what lurks beneath the bulging hood truly defines the RS5. Powered by a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged engine, it churns out 450hp to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, sprinting from 0 to 60mph in a brisk 3.9 seconds. Yet, apart from the range-topping Vorsprung trim, all RS5 variants are electronically capped at 155mph, with the top-tier model reaching 174mph.

When it comes to features, the Audi RS5 doesn’t skimp. Loaded with standard equipment, it includes an infotainment system, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, three-zone climate control, Nappa leather heated seats with massage function, and keyless go. As a used buy, you’re getting a lot for your money. Practicality isn’t sacrificed either. The RS5 maintains a generous 450-litre boot capacity, surpassing the old BMW M4’s 440-litre and well ahead of the Mercedes-AMG C63 S’s 380-litre boot. However, it’s not exactly a family car unless you opt for the Spotback. The rear seats are cramped and better suited for carrying extra bags than passengers. For a more practical performance option, consider the Audi RS4 Avant or RS6 Avant, which matches the RS5’s pace while offering the space of a spacious estate. If you prioritize a performance car equally adept on highways and twisty roads, the Audi RS5 fits the bill.

Audi invested considerable effort in transforming the RS5 into a true driver’s car for this generation. By moving the front wheels forward in the chassis and enhancing body stiffness, they aimed to enhance handling dynamics. Weight reduction was a pivotal goal, resulting in a kerb weight of 1707kg. The use of aluminium and high-strength steel in the structure shaved off 15kg compared to the previous V8-powered RS5. Both front and rear axle assemblies are lighter by 6kg and 5kg, respectively, while the electro-mechanical steering gear shed an additional 3.5kg. Remarkably, despite rivals’ increasing weights, the RS5 emerges as one of the lightest cars in its class, second only to the Giulia Quadrifoglio. The M4 Competition tips the scales at 1725kg, while the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe stands at a hefty 1745kg. The RS5 boasts a specially developed version of Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing a standard torque split of 40/60 front to rear. This setup promises agile handling while allowing torque distribution adjustments to adapt to varying conditions swiftly. In Auto mode, the RS5 exhibits impressive ease of driving, with optional adaptive dampers ensuring a smooth ride over bumps. It feels nimble, with ample grip and progressive steering weight buildup. However, it lacks the pinpoint precision of rivals like the M4 Competition. Despite this, the RS5 eagerly tackles corners, aided by firm dampers that maintain stability during hard cornering. Its four-wheel-drive traction enables swift exits, unmatched by rear-drive rivals. However, it exhibits less throttle adjustability and may experience mild understeer if pushed too hard. To fully exploit the RS5’s capabilities, engaging the sportiest damper settings and pushing it hard reveals its iron-clad body control, exceptional grip, and impressive balance. While not as thrilling as rear-wheel-drive competitors, it offers a unique blend of speed, comfort, and engagement that sets it apart.

Despite the implementation of enhanced fuel-saving features during the facelift, such as engine-off coasting and improved fuel efficiency measures in the gearbox, the RS5’s fuel consumption remains somewhat modest. While one might expect the tyres to wear more evenly compared to those of rear-wheel-drive competitors, replacing them still incurs a high cost. As for reliability, Audi has a decent but not outstanding track record in this regard. Given the RS3’s relatively low production numbers, it’s challenging to gauge its long-term reliability accurately. However, there haven’t been widespread reports of issues from owners, and its shared platform with the A5 and other Volkswagen Group models suggests it should be relatively trouble-free. The RS5 comes with a two-year unlimited mileage warranty, extendable to the fourth and fifth years for an additional fee.