Not against expectations, the Mk2
Audi A5
has hardly set PistonHeads alight. After 71 votes since its reveal on June 4, it is currently averaging 4.49 on the PH o'meter. This latest A5 should go some way to addressing that...
You've spotted the exhausts, right?
RS5
. We know that, rather sadly, the V8 will be out for this generation, replaced by a turbocharged V6 that's evolved from the S5. Not great news for V8 fans, as it's a fantastic engine, but it seems time really is up for atmospheric motors.
However, the rest of the package looks pretty encouraging for now. There are wheelarch extensions for a start, which is always good news. This prototype has a new exhaust and bigger wheels too. Oh yes, and the tiniest of lip spoilers as well. What, you were expecting a full-on DTM replica?
With six cylinders and turbos, the RS5 follows the M4 in its switch from eight cylinders. Is now the time for Audi to beat BMW? There's of course the C63 to consider as well, plus the Lexus RC F if you simply must have a V8.
Given how far advanced this prototype looks, the RS5's debut can't be far off. Perhaps it's one for Geneva next year? The RS4 must be due soon also so expect them to be seen, if not together, then not far apart. And will there be a four-door version too? Will that be an RS4 saloon or an RS5 Sportback? Answers to follow as soon as we have them. Finally, if your fast Audi really must have a V8, the cheapest RS5 we can find is now £25K. Up the budget to £40K and this approved used car looks good, in black with the sport diff and B&O stereo. There's plenty of choice should you fancy one!
Photos: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien