Audi enthusiasts have something to look forward to as the German automaker prepares to launch its revamped A5 model, which is poised to hit the market as a 2026 offering. Among the most exciting updates is the return of the high-performance RS 5 flagship, which is currently making the rounds in prototype form. A recent batch of spy shots reveals the RS 5 liftback undergoing testing, alongside an equally thrilling RS 5 Avant wagon.
This new A5 is taking advantage of Volkswagen Group’s cutting-edge Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture—an advanced design that supports both gasoline and hybrid powertrains. For most international markets, Audi will offer the liftback and wagon configurations, while a traditional sedan variant will be exclusively available in China.
What’s intriguing is that this updated A5 generation won’t include the coupe and convertible models that were available in the previous lineup. These options were omitted primarily due to diminishing consumer demand. Instead, Audi is focusing on what drives sales, namely the practicality and style of the liftback and Avant models.
We first caught a glimpse of the refreshed standard A5 and the lively S5 late last July. The high-octane RS 5 is tipped to debut in late 2023 or early 2024, likely hitting the streets as a 2027 model in the U.S. Meanwhile, the A5 and S5 are expected to become available at dealerships during the upcoming spring or summer seasons.
What sets this prototype apart as the RS 5 is its aggressive styling cues: large air intakes dominate the front, broad fenders support a wider stance, impressive cross-drilled brake rotors signal its performance-oriented nature, and of course, the signature RS oval exhaust tips offer a hint of what to expect under the hood.
Though specific details about the powertrain remain under wraps, there’s strong speculation that the new RS 5 will adopt a plug-in hybrid setup based on the beloved twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 from its predecessor. Adding one or more electric motors to the mix will likely push power output beyond the impressive 444 hp delivered by the previous RS 5. This turbo boost in performance will be essential for keeping pace with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S E Performance, which showcases a jaw-dropping 671 hp.
While Audi seems firm on bringing the RS 5 liftback to the U.S. market, the fate of the RS 5 Avant remains less certain. Audi currently offers the larger RS 6 Avant, although 2025 marks the end of that model’s production run. Anticipation is brewing for its successors: an electric RS 6 Avant E-Tron and a plug-in hybrid RS 7 Avant, aligning with the industry’s shift toward electrification.
As we wait for the official unveilings and further details, one thing is clear—the coming Audi A5 lineup is set to deliver a perfect blend of performance and versatility that many driving enthusiasts will find hard to resist. The promise of an enhanced driving experience, combined with Audi’s reputation for quality and style, makes this an exciting time for fans of the brand. Keep your eyes peeled; the road ahead looks thrilling!
