Audi has introduced the RS 5, a plug-in hybrid sports car, in 2026, signaling a major evolution in the brand's performance lineup as Europe enforces stricter environmental regulations. The RS 5 replaces the RS 4 in Audi’s product range and is part of a broader naming strategy: even-numbered models are now reserved for electric vehicles, while odd-numbered models are for thermal (gasoline/diesel) and hybrid vehicles. This means the Audi A4 has become the A5, and the RS 4 has become the RS 5. However, the thermal-powered A6 has kept its original name. The RS 5 combines a 2.9-liter V6 biturbo engine, producing 510 horsepower and 600 Nm of torque, with an electric motor integrated into its eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. The motor adds up to 177 horsepower and 460 Nm of torque, giving the RS 5 a combined power output of 639 horsepower and 825 Nm of torque—more than the Audi RS 6. The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h, or 285 km/h with the Audi Sport package. The RS 5 can run on pure electricity for up to 83 km, powered by a 25.9 kWh battery (22 kWh usable) located under the rear floor. This reduces the boot space to 331 liters in the sedan version and 361 liters in the estate. The car can be charged at 11 kW, taking a maximum of 2 hours and 30 minutes, though Audi has not included fast DC charging at 50 kW. One standout feature of the RS 5 is its electromechanical torque vectoring system on the rear axle, which Audi claims is the first of its kind in mass production. This system can create a 2,000 Nm difference between the two rear wheels, improving handling and enabling controlled drifts. It uses an 8 kW electric motor that operates at a high calculation frequency of 200 Hz and can act on the wheels in just 15 milliseconds. Despite its weight of 2.3 tonnes, the RS 5 offers precise steering and strong braking, with 420 mm front and 400 mm rear brake discs as standard. It is available in two body styles: the Sportback at 118,000 euros and the Avant at 119,500 euros. In France, buyers will face an additional tax of around 12,000 to 15,000 euros due to the car’s weight. This is more favorable compared to the BMW M3 Touring, which starts at 125,300 euros and includes an 80,000 euro CO2 penalty. Produced in Neckarsulm, Germany, the RS 5 is available for pre-order in France, with deliveries expected in the summer of 2026. While the RS 5 delivers a powerful and dynamic driving experience, it faces competition from fully electric sports cars like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, which offers similar performance and driving enjoyment. The choice between the RS 5 and an electric sports car will ultimately depend on the buyer’s personal preferences and priorities.