Audi's finally plugging in.
The 2026 RS5 marks Audi's first dive into plug-in hybrid territory for an RS model, bringing electrons to the fight against BMW's M3 and Mercedes-AMG's C63.
Under that muscular hood sits Audi's familiar 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, now paired with electric motivation that should push combined output north of 500 hp. Some sources suggest figures as high as 600-700 hp – territory that would put it squarely against the 671 hp AMG C63 S E Performance.
Hybrid Muscle, Extra Weight
The hybrid powertrain brings Audi into alignment with Mercedes-AMG, which abandoned its thunderous V8 for a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid setup in the C63. BMW's M3 remains steadfastly combustion-only.
Physics can't be fooled. Battery packs add mass, and mass kills handling. Audi engineers face the same challenge that's made the new C63 feel more heavyweight boxer than nimble fighter.
Quattro all-wheel drive remains standard, naturally. Expect the usual RS treatment:
- Sport-tuned suspension with likely adaptive damping
- Upgraded brakes to handle the additional weight and power
- Premium interior appointments including Napa leather and massage seats
Sedan and Wagon, Pick Your Poison
The RS5 will drop the "Sportback" moniker for its four-door variant, simply going with "sedan." More importantly for enthusiasts, an Avant wagon version will join the lineup.
Styling follows Audi's evolutionary approach. Wider fenders front and rear, functional vents behind the front wheels, and the latest iteration of the Singleframe grille all make appearances. LED headlamps slim down while the front bumper grows more aggressive with larger air intakes.
Price of Admission
Expect to shell out around $81,000 to start – slightly more than the BMW M3's $77,000 entry point. The hybrid system's electric-only range remains unconfirmed but should deliver at least 20 miles of silent running.
The real question isn't about numbers on a spec sheet. It's whether Audi can maintain the visceral connection between driver and machine while adding complexity, weight, and electronic intervention.
Batteries and motors change the equation. They add instant torque but also insulation from the mechanical symphony that makes an RS product special.
We'll find out in 2026 if Audi's first plug-in RS still speaks the language of driving enthusiasts or if it's just another silent assassin.
