ABU DHABI: Audi Sport, Audi’s performance division, is all set to introduce the all-new RS5 Avant in 2025 marking its entry into electrification. The RS5 Avant will be the first plug-in hybrid of Audi Sports and it will succeed the RS4. The new Audi RS5 Avant has been given a new name aligning with the strategy of Audi of assigning even numbers to EVs and odd numbers to combustion cars.    

The upcoming Audi RS5 Avant will retain its powerful 2.9-litre V6 engine and its performance will be enhanced with the incorporation of an electric motor that will boost the output beyond 450 hp and 600 Nm. It will use the MLB platform of the Volkswagen Group, modified to accommodate a 14.4kWh battery for plug-in hybrid versions. 

The shift of Audi Sport to PHEV powertrains is in line with its strategy to transition to electric power by 2035. With this strategy, Audi aims to give tough competition to its rivals like Mercedes-AMG which now offers the C 63 with a plug-in hybrid powertrain generating 680 hp and 1020 Nm. Audi's MLB platform upgrades will introduce extra features like Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities and rear-wheel steering.

Audi Sport's first PHEV prototypes boast features like large wheels, flared arches, and air outlets for optimized cooling. The new RS5 Avant estate was seen testing in full-bore RS guise, while there remains suspicion about the sedan version. 

Audi Sport’s electrification strategy is also in line with customer usage profiles, considering daily commute distances. The models like the RS6 and RS4 may also transition to electrification, prioritizing hybridization initially. While the current RS6's mild-hybrid V8 replacement remains uncertain, it is anticipated that a plug-in hybrid successor will come up with the upcoming A6/A7 models.

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