The Audi A5 has long stood as a symbol of refined elegance and performance, gracing the streets with its coupe, convertible, and liftback variations. With the recent unveiling of a new generation, excitement is brewing as enthusiasts gear up for the 2026 model, set to hit the market this spring or summer. This upcoming version promises to shake things up, primarily focusing on the liftback model and introducing a new wagon variant, while an exclusive sedan variant will make its home in China.
It’s thrilling to see that Audi is planning to ramp up the performance of the A5 lineup with the addition of the RS 5 models in both the liftback and wagon formats. Just recently, our photographer managed to capture a prototype of the RS 5 Avant—Audi’s flair for calling their wagons the “Avant” adds a bit of charm—during its rigorous testing phase at the iconic Nürburgring racetrack in Germany. The rigorous trials these prototypes undergo reflect Audi’s commitment to delivering a vehicle that not only looks sports-oriented but drives like one too.
What’s particularly striking about this RS 5 Avant prototype is its design. It’s clear from the prominent air intakes on the front to the broad fenders that this is no ordinary A5 Avant. The wider track width is not just for aesthetics; it’s also vital for improved handling and stability at high speeds. Add the sizeable cross-drilled brake rotors and distinctive RS oval exhaust tips into the mix, and you’ve got a vehicle that spells performance from every angle.
Interesting insights from the photos reveal that this prototype might come equipped with a plug-in hybrid system. A fuel filler and a charging port suggest a forward-thinking approach to sustainability without compromising on performance. The yellow warning stickers visible through the windshield also imply that this vehicle is leaning into electrification, consistent with modern trends in the automotive market.
The audio captured from video footage gives us further hints about the powertrain, indicating a robust V-6 engine as part of the hybrid setup. Rumor has it that we could be looking at the twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 engine from the current RS 5, which already impressively pumps out 444 horsepower. However, whispers in the automotive community suggest that the new RS 5 will take things up a notch, gearing up to challenge the Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S E Performance’s formidable 671 horsepower.
Anticipation is building for the debut of the new RS 5, with a likely appearance later this year as a 2027 model in the U.S. market. While the liftback model seems like a shoo-in for availability, there’s still some ambiguity surrounding the wagon’s fate here, especially since Audi has already confirmed that the standard A5 wagon won’t be making its way to this market.
As for the RS 6 Avant, Audi currently offers this larger beast in the U.S., but enthusiasts will need to savor it soon, as 2025 marks the end of its production. But don’t worry too much; Audi has plans to replace it with an electric RS 6 Avant E-Tron and a plug-in hybrid RS 7 Avant. It’s still uncertain whether both of these highly anticipated variants will find their way to the U.S. market, but with Audi’s track record, there’s reason to hope.
This whole transition gives a nod to the shifting landscape of automotive preferences, where performance and sustainability marry together in exciting ways, and Audi is leading the charge. If you’re an Audi fan or simply a lover of high-performance vehicles, these upcoming models will give you plenty of reasons to be excited!
