2011 Audi RS5

Press release

Unbridled power lurking in a classically elegant coupé: the Audi RS 5 will debut at the Geneva Auto Show. The high-revving 4.2-liter V8 with its 331 kW (450 hp) unleashes powerful performance while achieving remarkable fuel economy. The seven-speed S tronic and an innovative center differential in the quattro drivetrain transmit power to all four wheels.

Developed by quattro GmbH, the RS models comprise the dynamic spearhead of Audi‘s model range. The RS 5 is the latest torchbearer in a tradition dating back over 15 years to the RS 2 Avant: superior handling in the mid-size class.

A close relative of the V10 which powers the high-performance R8 sports car, the high-revving V8 engine delivers its output from a displacement of 4,163 cm3. Like nearly every Audi gasoline engine, this one also operates via direct fuel injection known by the abbreviation FSI. This same technology has propelled the Audi R8 racing car to four triumphs at the classic endurance race in Le Mans. The common-rail system generates up to 120 bars of pressure.

Intensive fine-tuning of the dual-branch intake and exhaust system allows the undersquare engine to breathe freely; four adjustable camshafts and tumble flaps in the intake manifold facilitate mixture formation. The 4.2 FSI provides imposing torque and is right at home even at high revs – almost like a race engine. The engine delivers 331 kW (450 hp) at 8,250 rpm and – between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm - transmits a maximum of 430 Nm (317.15 lb-ft) of torque.

The vigorous strength, the spontaneous responsiveness, the joyful high-revving, and the throaty, sonorous music: this V8 produced by hand at Audi stunningly combines the essence of power and emotion. The 4.2 FSI propels the coupé’s 1,725 kilograms (3,802.97 pounds) in 4.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Audi can increase that to 280 km/h (173.98 mph) upon request.

Impressive efficiency: just 10.8 liters of fuel per 100 km

Efficiency is standard in every Audi; the RS 5 is no exception. The ultra-powerful eight-cylinder engine averages 10.8 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (21.78 miles US mpg) - far less than its main competitors. This impressive figure is due in part to the technologies from the Audi modular efficiency platform. The engine and the entire drivetrain have been optimized to minimize friction, the oil pump operates on demand, and an energy-recovery system conserves energy during coasting and braking.

The standard seven-speed S tronic in the RS 5 – with its high efficiency ratio and its high-geared top speed – also enhances efficiency. It consists of two clutches and two subsidiary transmissions. Both subsidiary transmissions are continuously active, but only one is powered at any given time by the engine. Gears are alternately shifted by the two clutches – at lightning speed, smoothly, and almost imperceptibly.

The seven-speed S tronic, which was specially reinforced to accommodate the high-revving V8, can operate in fully automatic mode – or the driver can shift via the innovative selector lever or shift paddles on the steering wheel. By means of the standard Audi drive select, the driver can switch in automatic mode among three different options: auto, comfort, and dynamic. In the launch control program, the seven-speed S tronic ensures flawless acceleration from a standstill – at full power and with minimal tire slip.

New quattro technology: the crown-gear differential

Like all RS models, the RS 5 also applies its power to the road with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. As for the center differential, which regulates power distribution between the front and rear axles, Audi – the leading all-wheel-drive brand – unveils the next generation: a crown-gear differential.

The self-locking crown-gear center differential is compact and lightweight – and attains a high efficiency ratio.

Thanks to its package of plates, the differential can widely vary the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. If necessary, up to 70 percent can flow to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end. The 40:60 ratio of the standard rear-biased configuration ensures sporty handling.

This new differential operates in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring, which affects all four wheels. If one of the inside wheels becomes imbalanced while the vehicle is at its operational limits, then the system slightly decelerates the wheel to obviate wheel spin. This results in terrific traction on the one hand while generating a yaw moment which aids cornering.

As a perfect complement to the new quattro drivetrain, Audi can optionally position the sport differential at the rear axle. It actively distributes torque between the rear wheels in order to further boost stability and grip at the vehicle’s limits of handling. The electronic management of the RS 5 sport differential was designed to be uncompromisingly dynamic.

With regard to the springs, shock absorbers, elastokinematics, and the anti-roll bars, the RS 5 chassis exhibits a sporty configuration and renders the body 20 millimeters (0.79 inches) lower than that of the Audi A5. The 19-inch alloy wheels fitted with 265/35 tires are standard. They are executed in an exclusive 5-arm structure design. The RS 5 optionally comes with 20-inch wheels and 275/30 tires. Winter wheels featuring the same dimensions are available; the 19-inch wheel is suitable for snow chains.

The brake system employs powerful and internally ventilated discs, which measure 365 millimeters (14.37 inches) in diameter at the front axle. In order to maximize the dissipation of heat, the steel friction rings are perforated and connected by pins to the aluminum brake discs. The high-gloss black brake calipers bearing RS logos are likewise made of aluminum; the front calipers are fitted with eight pistons each. Audi can optionally fit the front axle with ceramic carbon-fiber brake discs measuring 380 millimeters (14.96 inches) in diameter. They are extremely lightweight, strong, and durable. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) integrates a sport mode and can be switched off entirely.

Even more dynamics: Audi drive select

The speed-dependent servotronic steering in the RS 5 is especially taut. The standard Audi drive select (a vehicle-dynamics control system) allows the driver to switch among three modes of operation – comfort, auto, and dynamic – to adjust steering, the seven-speed S tronic, the sport differential, the engine, and the exhaust system. And if the car is equipped with the MMI navigation system, a fourth mode allows the driver to customize their own profile.

As regards the engine, Audi drive select controls the exhaust system’s two throttle valves and the sound flaps; when they open, the rich sound becomes even more resonant. Along with the sport differential, dynamic steering is another optional component of Audi drive select. Dynamic steering adjusts the steering ratio to a vehicle’s speed – directly for maneuvering at low speeds and indirectly for traveling at highway speeds. At the vehicle’s cornering limits, it automatically ensures smooth handling via minor corrective actions.

The RS 5 exudes an athletic and powerful identity; its classically beautiful coupé styling dazzles with new and clear-cut accents. Its single-frame grille bears a shiny charcoal-gray rhombus-pattern grid. Xenon plus headlights boasting a sweeping strip of LED daytime running lights are standard. The oversized air inlets for the engine, front brakes, and the radiators are bordered by striking contours. The newly designed bumper tapers downward into a splitter.

The flared fenders with the crisp horizontal upper edges are reminiscent of a classic Audi: namely, the all-wheel-drive pioneer Audi quattro, which itself debuted at the Geneva Auto Show 30 years ago. The side sills bear angular caps; the trim strips on the single-frame grille and near the side windows as well as the outside mirrors’ covers feature a matt aluminum look. Eight different paint finishes are available.

The tail end is dominated by two oval exhaust pipes integrated within the bumper. A large diffuser protrudes prominently upward. The spoiler in the tailgate automatically extends at a speed of 120 km/h (74.56 mph) and retracts at 80 km/h (49.71 mph).

The extensively clad underbody of the RS 5 integrates air vents for the seven-speed S tronic and the front brakes. At highway speeds, the aerodynamic characteristics of the RS 5 generate downforce to further enhance stability.

Dynamic elegance: the interior

The vehicle’s dynamically elegant styling extends to the interior. Sports seats with pronounced side sections and integrated head restraints are standard. They are electrically adjustable and feature a leather/Alcantara combination. Alternatives include bucket seats with more prominent contours and folding backrests or ventilated and luxuriously upholstered climate-controlled comfort seats.

The steering wheel has a substantial rim and is covered with perforated leather. The instruments have black gauges and white lettering with distinctive scaling. When the ignition is switched on, the red needles briefly rise high and then drop back down. The driver information system integrates a lap timer for recording circuit times and an oil-temperature gauge. Just like the optional MMI navigation systems’ monitor, it displays an RS greeting upon ignition.

The interior is black and the decorative inlays are made of carbon fiber. A fascia in the instrument panel features a piano finish. The pedals, the footrests, and the optional MMI navigation systems’ control buttons gleam thanks to their aluminum look. Moreover, the door handles consist of two slim strips – typical of Audi RS models. Aluminum inserts adorn the door sill trims and RS 5 logos lend dynamic highlights to the interior.

Upon request, truly exclusive features such as decorative inlays with a dark, stainless-steel mesh look, a black piano finish or brushed aluminum are available. Or seat upholstery featuring special leathers and colors as well as silver headlining. In addition, the Audi exclusive RS program offers options such as suede-covered controls and floor mats bearing RS 5 logos.

A Carbon design package is available for the engine compartment and, for the vehicle body, there are styling packages in black or matt aluminum look. And the acoustically bold Sport exhaust system – also with a sound flap – has black tailpipe trims.

Sales of the Audi RS 5 will begin in the spring. Its basic price will be approximately 77,700 euros.

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Specifications

Engine / electronics

• Engine type V8 spark-ignition engine, four-valve technology, DOHC
• Valve gear / number of valves per cylinder: Continuous intake and exhaust camshaft adjustment, hydraulic valve play compensation with roller cam followers, 4 valves
• Displacement in cc / bore x stroke in mm / compression: 4163 / 84.5 x 92.8 / 12.3
• Max. power output in kW (hp) / at rpm: 331 (450) / 8250
• Max. torque in Nm (lb-ft) / at rpm: 430 (317.15) / 4000 – 6000
• Engine management / mixture preparation: Fully electronic engine management with drive-by-wire throttle control, Bosch MED 17.1, gasoline direct injection, demand-controlled high-pressure and low-pressure fuel regulation, continuous lambda control, mapped ignition with solid-state high-voltage distribution, cylinder-selective adaptive knock control
• Exhaust emission control: Two close-coupled ceramic catalytic converters; adaptive lambda control, each with two oxygen sensors (guiding sensor and control sensor)
• Emissions class: EU 5
• Alternator in A / battery in A/Ah: 190 / 450 / 95

Drivetrain / transmission

• Drive type: quattro permanent all-wheel drive with self-locking crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring, electronic stabilization program (ESP)
• Clutch: Two electrohydraulically controlled multi-plate clutches in an oil bath
• Transmission type: 7-speed S tronic with electrohydraulic control
• Gear ratio in 1st gear / 2nd gear: 3.692 / 2.238
• Gear ratio in 3rd gear / 4th gear: 1.559 / 1.175
• Gear ratio in 5th gear / 6th gear: 0.915 / 0.745
• Gear ratio in 7th gear: 0.617
• Reverse gear / final drive ratio: 2.944 / 4.375

Suspension / steering / brakes

• Front suspension: Five-link front suspension, upper and lower wishbones, tubular anti-roll bar
• Rear suspension: Independent-wheel, trapezoidal-link rear suspension with resiliently mounted subframe, anti-roll bar
• Steering / steering ratio / turning circle in meters (D102) (feet): Maintenance-free rack-and-pinion steering with speed-dependent power assistance (servotronic) / 16.3 / 11.6 (38.06)
• Brake system: 18” high-performance brake system, dual-circuit with diagonal split, ABS/EBD and ESP with brake assist; tandem brake booster; ventilated disks front and rear
• Wheels / tires: 9J x 19 cast aluminum wheels / 265/35 R 19

Performance / consumption / acoustics

• Top speed in km/h (mph): 250 (155.34) (governed)
• Acceleration, 0-100 km/h (0-62.14 mph) in sec: 4.6
• Fuel: Super Plus sulfur-free, 98 RON
• Fuel consumption: city / highway / combined, l/100 km (US mpg): 14.9 / 8.5 / 10.8 (15.79 / 27.67 / 21.78)
• CO2 emissions: city / highway / combined, g/km (g/mile): 347 / 198 / 252 (558.44 / 318.65 / 405.55)
• Idling / drive-past exterior noise level in dB (A): 78 / 73

Body / dimensions

• Body type: Galvanized, unitary steel body, crumple zones at front and rear
• Number of doors / seats: 2 doors with additional side protection / four seats
• Drag coefficient Cd / frontal area A in m2 (square feet): 0.33 / 2.18 (23.47)
• Length (L103)/ width excluding mirrors (W103)/ height (H100-M), mm (feet): 4649 / 1860 / 1366 (15.25 / 6.1 / 4.48)
• Wheelbase (L101) / track at front/rear (W101-1/W102-2), mm (feet): 2751 / 1586 / 1582 (9.03 / 5.2 / 5.19)
• Height of loading lip in mm (H196) (feet): 663 (2.18)
• Luggage capacity in liters (cubic feet), according to VDA block method (V211) (V214): 455 (1.49)

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Prices

Note: the price listed below are for the German market where the RS5 is priced at 77,700 euro

Equipment packages / Design Packages

Special equipment

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Competitors and press reviews

"With its all-wheel drive apportioning power to all four wheels and a torque-vectoring device between the rear wheels helping to provide neutral handling, the RS5 has so much grip at very high cornering speeds that there’s nothing more than a hint of understeer to warn you that the enormous purchase from the tires is about to run out. Fling the RS5 into a tightening-radius bend and you get some lean, but it builds progressively without any unruly pitch to throw you off line and force you to back off prematurely." (Inside Line)

"Is the RS5 a car you would drive with no destination in mind? Like almost every other Audi, it feels like a piece of heavy machinery, one with deep reserves of engineering capability, but it is also one of the rare Audis that also has a fluidity and delicacy to it. I’d stop short of saying it would be a car I would choose to take on a track day, but for a non-stop return trip from London to the top of Scotland, there are few cars I would be happier to be in. Partly that’s because of the beautifully finished cabin, and partly it’s because the RS5’s gearbox is so well rounded. But the real reason why the RS5 is so compelling is that when the roads offer entertainment, the RS5 entertains in spades." (Autocar)

"Out on the open road, the RS5 can switch characters in an instant. With steering-mounted paddles, you can take control of gear-shifting yourself, and thanks to the Drive Select system, you can play around with the throttle, steering and exhaust settings among others. We found that the RS5 behaved best with the steering set to Comfort mode (like the A8, Dynamic mode only adds more weight, not more feedback through the wheel) while the engine, gearbox and sport differential were all set to Dynamic. In this set-up, the RS5 darts into corners, allows you to accelerate hard and early, and offers incredible grip." (AutoExpress)

Competitors

BMW M3 coupe

The BMW M3 Coupe is powered by a 4.0-liter, V-8 engine that delivers a total of 414 HP and 295 lb-ft at a maximum engine speed of 8, 400 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is made in in just 4.8 seconds, while top speed is limited to 155 mph. The 2010 model is priced at $58,400.

Jaguar XKR coupe

The XKR is powered by a supercharged V8 engine that delivers a total of 503 HP and 461 lbs-ft of torque. Jag claims the new XKR should be good for 0 to 60 mph sprints in 4.6 seconds (0.3 second improvement). Jaguar still mates the engine to an electronically controlled, six-speed ZF automatic transmission, and top speed is still electronically limited to 155 mph. The XKR Coupe is priced at $96,000.

Nissan GT-R

The 2011 Nissan GT-R is powered by a 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 producing 485 HP at 6,400 rpm and 434 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm. The engine is backed by an advanced paddle-shifted sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which can be driver selected to shift at race car-like speeds. Prices for the 2011 model start at $84,060.

Conclusion

How can you describe the new Audi RS5 in just a few words? Simple: elegant, luxurious, sporty. Many people testing the car said the RS5 is much more aggressive than the BMW M3 and that it offers a better handling at very high cornering speeds. What do we say? That we are really hoping Audi will decide to offer it on the US market! And soon!