Next-Generation Audi RS5 Leaked: Undisguised Liftback and Wagon Revealed
Low-resolution photos of the next-generation Audi RS5, including undisguised liftback and wagon versions, have been leaked online. These images suggest that the official reveal of Audi's new mid-size luxury/performance car is imminent.
The leaked images, initially posted on Instagram by cochespias1 and shiftech, display a design consistent with the established RS formula. Key visual elements include dramatically flared front and rear wheel arches, with the front fenders featuring a bulging vertical vent. Sculpted side sills connect the robust arches, which house split six-spoke alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.
The front end is characterized by a blacked-out single-frame grille that seamlessly integrates with gloss black surrounds for the side air intakes. The rear features large oval exhaust outlets emerging from a gloss black diffuser, which also incorporates an F1-style third brake light.
Authenticity Confirmed by Audi Teasers
These leaked photos are considered authentic, aligning with earlier spy photos and two teaser videos released by Audi within the past 24 hours. The teasers revealed details such as the front seat design, the lighting signature of the OLED tail-lights, cross-drilled disc brakes with red calipers, and a steering wheel featuring a red 'boost button'.
Power & Performance: A Plug-in Hybrid Future
The vehicle is expected to feature a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, likely a revised version of the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 found in the previous RS4 and RS5 models. While official outputs are not yet disclosed, the new plug-in hybrid system is anticipated to surpass the 331kW and 600Nm offered by the former RS4 Competition.
For comparison, the current BMW M3 offers between 353kW/550Nm and 405kW/650Nm, while the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E-Performance delivers 500kW and 1020Nm from its 2.0-litre four-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain. Mercedes-AMG has indicated plans to replace the C63's current plug-in hybrid system with a new C53 model featuring a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol straight-six.