Although its domination at the 24 Hours of Le Mans already spans over 14 years, Audi->ke14 has been struggling to win the manufacturers' title in the German-based DTM racing series for a couple of seasons now.

Audi clinched the drivers' championship five times the past seven seasons, but since BMW returned to DTM in 2012, Ingolstadt has yet to triumph in the constructor's category. With the 2014 season opener just a month away, the Germans have unleashed the updated RS5->ke2628 DTM racer that will take on both BMW->ke178 and Mercedes-Benz->ke187.

Improving an already-successful track car is not an easy task, especially given DTM's strict regulations, so Audi->ke14 had to focus on redesigning the vehicle's aerodynamic package. In other words, it's all in the little details, especially those that are basically invisible from the outside.

But aside from these performance-enhancing updates, Audi also opted to add some production parts from the road-going 2014 RS5, such as the honeycomb front grille and air ducts for the engine and the braking system, to its DTM race car->ke148.

Click past the jump to read more about the Audi RS5 DTM.

2014 Audi RS 5 DTM

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Audi RS 5 DTM
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 420
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Audi RS 5 DTM in Detail

To ensure the airflow is even more efficient in contrast with the 2013 car, Audi integrated the exterior mirrors into the new aerodynamic concept and developed closed inner rear wheel arches. Additionally, the rear part is now flat, while the front bumper has received revised intakes and canards. Needless to say, the 2014 RS5 is Audi's most aggressive DTM machine yet.

Under the skin, the racing coupe gained a new suspension system for both the front and the rear axles. The modification is expected to improve handling and keep the RS5 glued to the track in those tight turns. Power is provided by the already familiar 4.2-liter, V-8 engine, which has been updated to deliver an additional 10 horsepower for 2014, taking revised the output up to 460 ponies.

Just like last season, Audi will field eight cars over ten events that will take place in Germany, Hungary, Russia, Austria and China. The No.1 RS5 DTM will be driven by defending champion Mike Rockenfeller, but Audi will also benefit from former series winners such as Timo Scheider and Mattias Ekstrom.