Audi introduces 2020 RS5 Coupe and Sportback facelift

After a series of spy pictures, Audi has finally taken the covers off the facelifted RS5 Coupe and Sportback to complete the line-up with already present 2020 A5 and S5 models. No change has been done to the power mill and both models continue to sport the same twin-turbocharged V6 2.9-litre TFSI engine with same outputs - 450 PS of power and 600 Nm of torque. 

Being all-wheel-drive models and mated to an RS-specific 8-speed Tiptronic auto transmission, the engine setup makes them capable to sprint to 100 kmph from standstill in 3.9 seconds. Top speed is rated at 280 kmph. The gearbox has, however, been tuned for more aggressive shifts and quicker response. There are a pair of bigger aluminium paddle shifters for doing the job. A rear axle sport differential can be specified as before to actively distribute torque between the wheels. 

The RS5 Sportback gets steep springs and 3-stage adjustable dampers. The RS sport suspension is on offer as standard while pitch stabilisation and Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) come as an option. Aside from the standard Audi drive select, there are two new driving modes, RS1 and RS2 that are differentiated on the basis of how a car's engine, steering, suspension, dynamic steering, engine sound and sport differential behave. The driver can switch between the modes as per wish.

The exterior of the two models looks inspired by the A5 and S5 facelift models which were introduced earlier this year in September. You’d see LED headlamps with new LED daytime running lights graphics, a shorter Singleframe radiator grille, large contoured air inlets shaped like a pentagon. There is an exclusive option of matrix LED with laser lights too.

The rear diffuser now features a honeycomb mesh ditching the cleaner dual-fin type look as on the previous model. The side sills have been redesigned and there are other new additions like 19-inch wheels and a carbon-fibre roof, which reduces the weight of the car by 4 kgs.

Talking about the exterior options, you can opt for the new 20-inch wheels that come finished in glossy black or matte bronze, blue or grey calipers instead of the stock black or red and carbon-ceramic disc brakes for the front axle. For a more personalized look, you can choose between the offered styling packages - matte aluminium, carbon or black. 

Inside, the RS5 model gets a driver-tilted 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen display with acoustic feedback that can be upgraded to the MMI navigation plus featuring the Audi’s latest MIB 3 operating system and an RS-specific monitor. The monitor shows additional driving data like Quattro sport differential, tyre temperature reading and longitudinal and lateral acceleration.

Additionally, there is a new 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit, However, you’d want the Audi virtual cockpit plus with RS-specific performance graphics and multiple display screens. This includes rotational speed scale with shift light display and g-acceleration values. It is pretty much the same cabin as before, with slight improvements. The dash design seems to be uplifted and so is the air vent’s layout. In the centre, you get a small compartment in front of the gear lever instead of the rotary dial with buttons.

The models get the same driver-assist systems as the A5 and S5 facelift. The sport seats come covered in Alcantara-leather mix as standard, while you can go for fine Nappa leather which is an optional offering. Moreover, you get an option of RS Design package with grey or red accents. 

The price for RS5 models starts at 83,500 euros (AED 342,924 approx).

Also read: Audi teases e-tron Sportback with a headlamp image