If all you care about are performance numbers, the 2024 RS 5 Sportback is impressive in the way it fires off the line and grips through turns. For those who want to feel engaged in the driving experience, the RS 5 Sportback may leave that desire unfulfilled. But in terms of comfort, quality and convenience, the Sportback easily makes the grade with a balance of sophistication and aggression.Read full review
Sophisticated all-wheel-drive system can make the handling feel artificial
Powerful engine lacks character
Limited cabin storage and rear headroom
Costly options required to experience it at its best
What's new
Strong acceleration from the turbocharged V6
Confident and capable handling
Well-finished cabin with excellent infotainment interface
Surprisingly comfortable ride
Overview
by the Edmunds Experts
9/18/2023
The Audi RS 5 is a high-performance luxury car available in two-door coupe and four-door fastback body styles. Whichever configuration you choose, the RS 5 packs a potent 444-horsepower punch from a twin-turbocharged V6 engine and boasts herculean grip thanks to a performance-tuned all-wheel-drive system. The RS 5 received a midcycle refresh in 2021, and last year it gained a new, even more hardcore Competition package. For 2024, that package loses the carbon-ceramic front brakes available last year but also gets a substantial price reduction.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Audi RS 5 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.76 per gallon for premium unleaded in Utah.
All RS 5 models come equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine producing a healthy 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. That mill, when combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive system, delivered a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds in our tests. On paper, its performance numbers are commendable. But from behind the wheel, you might feel like you're missing some of that secret sauce that makes an RS car special. Luckily, Audi offers the Competition package to invigorate the RS 5 with a performance-tuned coilover suspension, stickier summer tires and a sport exhaust system.
Competitors to consider
The 2024 Audi RS 5 primarily competes with the BMW M4, which also has both two- and four-door variants available. The RS 5 must also contend with high-performance small luxury sedans and coupes like the Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S, Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrofoglio, BMW M3 and the recently discontinued Lexus RC F.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Average
7.6
out of 10
We drove the 2024 Audi RS 5 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Performance
7.5/10
How does the RS 5 drive? The RS 5 turns in an impressive 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds and can pull a full g around the skidpad, which means high levels of road grip. Subjectively, it's missing some of the excitement expected of an RS car. In Sport mode, it transforms into a very dynamic performer, but it does so by using sophisticated differentials that simulate a neutral or even loose rear end, which ends up feeling artificial.
In normal driving modes, there's a significant lag before the engine spools up and starts moving the car. And after some spirited use in our test car, we found the brake pedal got noticeably soft and the front rotors emitted loud squeals.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the RS 5? What the RS 5 surrenders in excitement it makes up for in touring comfort. The front seats offer great lateral support without being confining, and they're also shaped well for long-distance drives. The difference in ride quality between Comfort and Dynamic modes is very noticeable. In Dynamic mode, it gets much stiffer, yet it can maintain composure without riding harshly.
Likewise, the cabin remains quiet at high speeds and over rougher pavement. Road noise is present, but only just so. The engine and exhaust sound good off the bat, and even better in Dynamic mode, if not a bit synthetic. We're fairly certain the aural experience involves using the speakers to pipe in some of that sound.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The RS 5 uses Audi's last-generation interior design, which is much more user-friendly and less distracting. Unlike the newer layout, you get a good number of physical buttons, which means you won't have to dig through touchscreen menus. Every control is thoughtfully placed and has a solid and quality feel to it.
It's easy to access the front seats, and once there, it feels as though you're sitting just a bit tall for a sporty sedan. Rear passengers will likely have to stoop a little to clear the sleek profile of the rear roofline. Headroom is a bit snug back there. So is legroom due to tight toe space under the front seats. Visibility is good aside from a thick rear roof pillar that sits squarely in your over-the-shoulder view.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
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How’s the tech? Some people may prefer the RS 5's last-generation infotainment system more than the new version, as we do. The infotainment display is right in the driver's sight lines. And the dial controller is less distracting than a touchscreen to navigate menus with. Programmable shortcut buttons are a bonus amenity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration systems are standard, and they booted up quickly and were glitch-free in our testing.
The adaptive cruise control functions well, with smooth reactions to changing traffic conditions. The front parking sensors can often be too sensitive, turning on while in bumper-to-bumper traffic. They're adjustable to some degree to reduce the beeps.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The Sportback's hatch can hold up to 21.8 cubic feet, which is very useful for a sport sedan like this. The only thing missing back there are remote releases for the rear seatbacks. It's a long reach to fold them flat so some people may need to do so from the rear doors.
Up front, there are plenty of places to put your personal items and we especially like the small tray that ably holds your phone. The door pockets and cupholders could stand to be a little bigger, though. All but the largest rear-facing infant seats should be accommodated with little effort.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA says the RS 5 Sportback gets 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway), which is pretty good considering how fast it is. We saw 22.8 mpg on our highway-heavy evaluation loop. That seems to indicate that the EPA mileage estimates are realistic, which is always a nice thing.
Value
7/10
Is the RS 5 a good value? Audi's build quality is consistently top-notch, and the automaker manages to make a cabin look and feel special without going overboard. The RS 5's interior is no exception. Taking a look at the window sticker will bring you back to the reality of how much some nice things cost. Our as-tested cost crested $100,000, which we think is a lot considering that the BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E 63 S are in the same ballpark and play in a difference performance league.
Audi's warranties are pretty typical, but they do provide the first scheduled service free of charge, which is more than what some others offer.
Wildcard
7/10
RS models from Audi have historically been the fiery and raucous beasts that dare you to explore their potential for performance. This RS 5 is fast, sure, but fun? In many ways, this is probably where the S5 should be in terms of engagement and excitement. We expected more.
That said, the RS 5 is sleek and sophisticated. It has the look of lurking aggression, even though it isn't fully realized. If your tastes trend more toward sporty touring than outright performance, it might fill that tiny niche perfectly.
Which RS 5 does Edmunds recommend?
Just one trim level of RS 5 is available, so the biggest decision you have to make is whether to get the two-door coupe or four-door Sportback. But if you want the full RS experience, we recommend adding the Competition package for its enhanced coilover suspension, upgraded wheels and tires, and more aurally pleasing RS exhaust system.
2019 Audi RS 5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
I have now had this car for a year and give you an accurate real world review, not the stupid reviews that every car magazine will give you
Pros:
Very fast
Comfortable when not in dynamic mode.
All wheel drive is amazing
I like the stealth mode of Audi RS cars. Most people don’t know what they are and I like that.
Plenty of room even in the back seat. Can fit 4 adults as long as the … ones in the back are shorter than say 5’8”
Good mpg when not racing it. I can get 30mpg on highway cruising to work around 70mph
Interior is amazing and infotainment is great
Exhaust sound doesn’t wear you out
Brakes are rock solid
Cons:
Dynamic mode is rough on the roads in St Louis.
Could have more aggressive sound but it’s a V6 and I’m SICK of people always saying but it’s not a V8 and doesn’t sound good. EVERYONE knows a V8 sounds better. Stop beating a dead horse with this. I knew this when I bought the car. If you have ever owned a car that has loud exhaust, you will admit there are times when it can get a little old when just cruising around (rarely but does happen)
Absolutely no aftermarket performance parts are available in the US yet
Transmission can be a little slow to downshift even in dynamic mode
Now for my complaints with other reviews:
Magazines want to compare this to the M4 and C63 which are RWD and they all say but it doesn’t have the fun factor blah blah blah. I’m 40. I don’t need to do a burn out around every corner and maybe when driven at 10/10 on a track, those might beat the RS5. When driven at ANYTHING less than that and on any street in America, the RS5 is safer and will destroy those cars and more especially from a launch with the AWD. I have raced a hellcat and embarrassed it.
People buy Audis partly for the stealth aspect of them. There are a lot of people that don’t need to be flashy and loud all the time. What this car does is murder the competition without making a big deal about it. Audi buyers don’t have to have all eyes on them and say “look at me!” Like every BMW driver.
Finally, if you want a sports coupe that is fast, solid, safe and not flashy, the RS5 is your car. If you want to live on a race track only, get the M4. If you want to have an awesome exhaust note and buy new tires every month from your daily burnouts, get the C63
Great everyday performance car
4 out of 5 stars
McGregor, 12/20/2019
2019 Audi RS 5 quattro 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
I traded my 2017 S6 in for the RS5 Sportback as I wanted something more sporty. The S6 was great but a little two big and unwieldy for sporty driving. Overall I am happy with the RS5. It is a good size, looks fantastic and has excellent performance and handling. The AWD makes it a year round daily drive in the Northeast, something the M4/C63/Giulia Quadrifolglio do not offer at least for … now. The AWD is not the only feature that makes it more practical as a daily; the hatchback (sorry, sportback) makes it easy to load and unload large items. Also the ride comfort is significantly more tolerable than the competitors. With 19" wheels the ride is just as comfortable as an A4. I went with the base 19" wheels for a few reasons; cost, better ride, less weight, better looks (subjective), less likelihood of a /bent wheel, and better traction when equipped with winter tires. The ride/handling tradeoff is perfect with the 19s and Dynamic Package (DRC suspension). I leave the suspension is auto as it is not as bouncy as comfort but not as stiff as dynamic. The drivetrain is great as well but the engine could use a bit more character. It pulls hard and there is good power everywhere. Turbo lag is not bad but you do feel it for a split second when flooring it. The engine sound is not terrible but it is one of the few negative points about the driving experience. The C63 sounds much better, while the M4 sounds only slightly better. The 8 speed automatic is a great transmission. It upshifts and downshifts quickly and smoothly in comfort and auto while dynamic makes the shifts even quicker and more forceful.Having said that a dual clutch transmission would be even better and make the car more special as everyone seems to be using the same ZF 8 speed automatic now. Coincidentally Porsche uses this same engine in the Macan turbo with a dual clutch (PDK) so it's a shame Audi doesn't do the same. Gas mileage is unsurprisingly poor but the worst part is the range. With the small gas tank I am getting around 240 miles per tankful which is awful. The car desperately needs a larger tank.
The interior quality and design are excellent as you would expect from Audi. Fit and finish is perfect and the material quality is outstanding. The seats are comfortable all day. The massage feature is a bit lame as it uses deflating/inflating air bladders instead of actual motors like it the A8. Instead they should offer comfort seats for people that want really comfortable seats with real massage. The virtual cockpit is cool but I would be fine with a traditional gauge cluster. The infotainment/nav screen is just stuck on the dash, not integrated like newer designs, and it doesn't even retract. I wish the moon roof was optional. It adds weight and comes with a retractable perforated screen that blocks most but not all of the sun. Plus when open the glass roof retracts outside of the car. I would have paid $1000 to delete the moon roof. Audi: make the moon roof an option. Another gripe about the interior is the glaring lack of storage compartments. There is very little space to store small items. Another storage issue: the owner's manual get stowed in the hatchback area, and the jack get strapped to the floor of the cargo area instead of in a cubby. Weird.
Other than the few minor gripes I still feel it is the best vehicle in it's segment. Yes the others have slightly better track times and acceleration numbers but in the real world the RS5 is right there with them. Throw is wet or slippery roads and you can't even use 1/4 of the performance of the others. Even if the others had AWD I will still take the Audi. The M4 styling looks ridiculous, designed by a Fast and Furious attitude in mind. Plus the ride is harsh. The Alfa can be dismissed due to its abysmal reliability and poor interior quality. The C63 is nice but it rides firms and looks too similar to a C300/C43; not acceptable when paying $80k. Also the MCT transmission shifts very harsh. In summary, if you are looking for a practical everyday performance sedan/hatchback that delivers the goods, and does not beat you up, the RS5 is the only choice.
Beyond and ultimate driving machine!
5 out of 5 stars
William, 09/27/2019
2019 Audi RS 5 quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
I’ve been driving BMWs for 15 years and this was my first Audi! It has surpassed ALL expectation! The seats are extremely comfortable. The drive modes provide a wide range of comfort and performance. If your more into a Lexus type ride, the comfort mode provides that while performance and handling under dynamic makes you feel you’re on the autobahn! I only wish I had bought one years … ago!
RS5 Sportback exceptional at all things
5 out of 5 stars
HIGHFLIER, 07/23/2020
2019 Audi RS 5 quattro 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
Fast, stealth, good handling, all wheel drive, good sounding exhaust, great looks and comfort to boot. With seats down fits 15 bags of mulch in the back, 10' boards with ease and most other items you would need and still able to seat 5 in a pinch and 4 in comfort. Jack of all trades and master of daily driving. On long trips this thing munches up highway relentlessly (and safely). … Negatives? Steering could use a bit more feedback and the car is so good it's a bit hard to fling it around and have some extra fun. Some say the exhaust could be louder and I might agree if it were my only car. BUT with a Cobra (and for a time a Viper) I already have cars that are loud, rear wheel drive over steering beasts with manuals... that's just not what this car is for.. best and most accurate descriptive professional review caption that I have seen to date describes it as the "Swiss Army Knife" of automobiles... I concur ! 15000 miles to date BTW so this is not a "I got a brand new toy" review either...
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Audi RS 5, so we've included reviews for other years of the RS 5 since its last redesign.
The BMW M4 is available as a coupe or as a four-door Gran Coupe, a sedan/hatchback hybrid similar in function to the RS 5 Sportback. If you can get past its polarizing front-end design, the M4 delivers a more engaging driving experience than the RS 5. The M4 is offered in both rear- and all-wheel drive and can be had with a six-speed manual transmission, an option the RS 5 lacks.
Though most competitors in the category make do with a turbocharged six-cylinder, the Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S ups the ante with a twin-turbocharged V8 good for 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This gives it a clear power advantage over the RS 5, though acceleration is comparable with a manufacturer-estimated 0-60 mph of 3.7 seconds. The C 63 S costs a bit more than the RS 5, but for some, having a V8 soundtrack might be worth the extra cash.
Dynamically speaking, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is one of the most exhilarating cars you can buy for under $100,000. In addition to its 505-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6, which grants it impressive acceleration, the Quadrifoglio's crisp steering feel and nimble handling contribute to a well-rounded performance character. However, the Alfa is held back by its lackluster build quality and questionable track record for reliability. The Giulia is also only available as a sedan, so if you want a two-door you'll have to look elsewhere.
The RS 5 was originally Audi's answer to the BMW M3 coupe (which has since become the M4 coupe). In recent years the BMW has taken a big step up in terms of performance, and in that regard it's left the Audi behind. However, the RS 5 has exceptional build quality, surprisingly comfortable ride quality, and exceptional long-distance touring credentials.
It's still a capable fast car, and the addition of the Competition package last year only elevated the RS 5's performance credentials. As a result of last year's change, we think the RS 5 is going to carry on into 2024 almost completely unchanged. However, the current A5 has been with us for a while, and spy shots of its replacement have been seen floating around the internet. If you have your heart set on this RS 5, now might just be the time.
Edmunds says
If we had our druthers, we'd pick the RS 5 with the Competition pack. It might be pricey, but it makes major improvements to the RS 5's handling that we dare say are necessary.
FAQ
Is the Audi RS 5 a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 RS 5 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 RS 5 gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 17 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the RS 5 has 21.8 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi RS 5. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Audi RS 5?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Audi RS 5:
Strong acceleration from the turbocharged V6
Confident and capable handling
Well-finished cabin with excellent infotainment interface
To determine whether the Audi RS 5 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the RS 5. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the RS 5's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Audi RS 5 a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Audi RS 5 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 RS 5 and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 RS 5 gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 17 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 RS 5 is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Audi RS 5?
The least-expensive 2024 Audi RS 5 is the 2024 Audi RS 5 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $79,900.
Other versions include:
4dr Hatchback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $79,900
If you're interested in the Audi RS 5, the next question is, which RS 5 model is right for you? RS 5 variants include 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.9L 6cyl Turbo 8A). For a full list of RS 5 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
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