2024 Audi RS5 Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
At the top of the A5 lineup are the RS5 models, peak luxury compact performance delivered via coupe and fastback body styles. It was first introduced to American audiences for 2013, and a follow-up generation arrived for 2017. For 2024, the model receives more technology, and updated exterior colors. RS5 competitors include the BMW M4 and Mercedes-AMG C63 .
What's New
- Standard driver assist features including adaptive cruise control, a lane keeping system, and parking sensors
- The optional Navigation package receives traffic sign recognition, predictive adaptive cruise control, and a trial subscription to Audi Connect Plus
- Standard remote start via MyAudi app and heated steering wheel with hands-on detection
- Progressive Red Metallic and Arkona White exterior colors
What We Think
We called the Sportback variant of the 2021 RS5 a do-it-all hatchback for its athleticism, good looks, seating for five, and 21.8 cubes of cargo space. It exhibited explosive quickness off the line, besting at least one high-end V-8 sports car. Power comes on smoothly, and braking is robust. The RS' adaptive dampers, model-specific rear limited-slip differential, and all-wheel drive make it easy to find the limits of the car's grip, too, without fear of having pushed the vehicle too far.
As fun as it is to drive, though, BMW's M3 and M4 are quicker. That said, the M cars get worse fuel economy. Plus, neither performance compact is offered as a five-door. If a jack of all trades (but master of none) is what you're looking for, the RS5 is one of only a few to fit the bill.
Performance and MPGs
The mightiest A5s are the ones that make 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The RS5 does so with a 2.9-liter turbocharged V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.
Fuel economy for the 2024 RS5 comes in at 18/25 mpg city/highway whether you opt for the Coupe or Sportback. In comparison, a 2024 BMW M4 xDrive coupe sees a less efficient 16/22 mpg city/highway rating.
How Quick Is the 2024 RS5?
Decently quick. We tested a same-generation 2023 RS5 Coupe, and it made the sprint to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, shaving 0.1 second from the 2021 RS5 Sportback's 3.6 seconds. But BMW M3 and M4 performance compacts make more power and can do the deed in closer to 3.0 seconds.
Driver Assist Features
Like the rest of the 2024 A5 lineup, the RS5 gains new safety features. New standard fare includes adaptive cruise control, a lane keeping system, and parking sensors. They join existing standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beams. Through the optional Navigation package, traffic sign recognition and predictive adaptive cruise control are available.
The 2024 RS5 Sportback: High-Class Hot Hatch?
For the RS5 with the most room, you'll want the five-door, five-passenger Sportback. The Coupe only holds four, and its trunk is only half as big as the Sportback's cargo hold. The fastback model also comes with a touch more rear legroom: 35.1 inches compared to the Coupe's 32.7 inches.
Technology
The RS5 gains a standard heated steering wheel and remote start via MyAudi app for 2024. These join existing standard features that include a 12.3-inch driver display, 10.1-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, heated seats, and 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio. A head-up display and 360-degree camera are available.
Prices
The 2024 Audi RS5 Coupe and Sportback are offered in a single specification. Coupes are slightly more affordable, carrying a sticker price of $79,695. Add another $300, and you get the price of the Sportback.
