Audi’s new RS5 has arrived in South Africa with 470kW, 825Nm and a starting price of R2.43 million.

Buyers can choose between Sedan and Avant body styles. The arrival also introduces plug-in hybrid power to the RS5, combining a petrol V6 with an electric motor. carmag.co.za

A V6 with electric assistance

The new powertrain pairs a 2.9-litre twin-turbocharged V6 with a single electric motor. Together, they produce the headline combined outputs.

The electric motor draws energy from a battery with a gross capacity of 25.9kWh and usable capacity of 22kWh. This also allows the car to travel on electric power alone, rather than using its petrol engine for every journey. carmag.co.za

Audi quotes a 0–100km/h time of 3.6 seconds. An eight-speed tiptronic gearbox sends power through the brand’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h. The optional Audi Sport package raises that limit to 285km/h. These performance figures are manufacturer claims. Luxury and Premium Cars

What will South Africans pay

The RS5 Sedan costs R2,430,000, while the RS5 Avant costs R2,470,000, including VAT and CO₂ emissions tax.

That puts the estate-bodied Avant R40,000 above the Sedan. Buyers therefore have two body styles at closely matched prices, with the same quoted combined power output.

The Sedan’s local configurator also lists the 3.6-second acceleration claim, while the Avant configurator shows the same figure. www.audi.co.za

More than a power upgrade

Audi says the new quattro system can actively distribute torque between the rear wheels. RS sport suspension with twin-valve dampers is also fitted.

Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights and an RS sport exhaust. Inside, buyers get heated, ventilated front seats with massage functionality, a head-up display and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Both derivatives include a five-year/100,000km Audi Freeway Plan. Audi lists availability through selected RS dealerships, including Audi Centre Claremont in Cape Town. Luxury and Premium Cars