New Audi RS5 spotted (images)

The next-generation Audi RS5 super-coupé has been spotted testing ahead of an expected launch early next year.

The latest development car is the first to be seen with production bodywork. An earlier test car, shown in our gallery, used the body of an S5. The RS5 has larger air intakes, wider arches, bigger wheels and brakes and more prominent exhaust surrounds than the S5.
The larger intakes have been added to feed the RS5’s more potent engine. Although it is unconfirmed, the RS5 is expected to switch from the current, normally aspirated, 444bhp V8 to a twin-turbocharged V6 producing around 500bhp.

This should enable the new four-wheel-drive coupé to accelerate from zero to 62mph in around four seconds.

Historically, the RS5 has arrived late into the A5 model’s life cycle, but insiders say the next-gen RS5 will be launched earlier to meet growing demand.

When it arrives, the RS5 will rival BMW’s M4 and Mercedes-AMG’s C 63 Coupé. Pricing is likely to rise slightly from the current car’s £58,365 but additional technology, including the latest Audi Virtual Cockpit and driver assist systems, will be included.