AUDI RS 5
It's a big day for local fans of Audi's performance range, with the launch of the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI and now the 2011 Audi RS5 announced for Australian sales.
Like the Audi S5 before it, the 2011 RS5 is powered by Audi's 4.2 litre V8. Producing 260kW in the S5, duty in the RS5 sees the V8's output boosted to 331kW and 430Nm of torque between 4000-6000rpm.
Audi’s R-tronic dual-clutch transmission is standard fitment, packing seven forward gears to channel drive to the rear-biased quattro all-wheel-drive system.
The RS5's quattro all-wheel-drive setup is a next-generation system, featuring a self-locking crown-gear centre differential, operating in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring. In regular conditions, the rear-biased quattro system splits torque 40:60, with up to 70 percent sent to the front wheels when needed.
Weighing in at 1725kg, the RS5 rockets to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds, on to an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h. Fuel consumption is listed as 10.8 l/100km.
With upgraded suspension, the RS5 is some 20mm lower than the regular A5, its 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 265/35 tyres. Larger 20-inch rims can be optioned.
Braking is managed up front by large 365mm ventilated discs, with 380mm discs available as an option. ESP is present, and although it has a sport mode, the driver can choose to disengage it all together.
As shown in spy photos last year and confirmed at Geneva, the RS5 features an active rear spoiler, similar to that found on the Audi R8.
Pricing and Availability
Deliveries of the Audi RS 5 Coupé commence in October, with a Manufacturer’s List Price of $175,300.
Note: prices are Manufacturer's List Price only and do not include dealer delivery or on-road costs.