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- Highs Exhilarating straight-line acceleration, comfortable ride despite its hi-po designation, richly appointed and roomy interior.
- Lows Turbocharged engine lacks character, competitors are more compelling to drive, available variable-ratio steering feels uneven.
- Verdict The RS5 coupe is quick and comfortable, but its raciest rivals have a more visceral driving experience.
Overview
With a 444-hp twin-turbo V-6 and an aggressive appearance, the 2022 Audi RS5 coupe provides max performance and machismo over its more subdued counterparts, the two-door A5 and S5. The RS5's extra power and track-focused hardware come with a significantly higher price tag, which helps it compete with hi-po rivals such as the BMW M4 and the Mercedes-AMG C63 coupe. While the Audi isn't as powerful as those alternatives, or as enjoyable behind the wheel, it has thrilling acceleration and works better as a beastly daily driver. Its interior has excellent outward visibility and generous passenger space, not to mention an undeniable sense of luxury with its rich materials and massaging front seats. The 2022 RS5 coupe could be considered too comfortable and quiet for some, but it gives off badass vibes regardless.
What's New for 2022?
The only differences between last year's RS5 coupe and the 2022 model are an assortment of new option packages. Those who want to further flaunt its top billing as an RS by way of floor mats with the logo, faux suede on the center console, shifter, and steering wheel, and seat belts with red accents should opt for the new RS Design package. The addition of the Bronze Styling package adds black exterior badging, a front spoiler and rear diffuser in matte carbon, bronze stitching in the coupe's cabin, and bronze 20-inch wheels with summer performance tires. And if a top speed of 155 mph isn't fast enough, the Dynamic Plus package raises that limit to 174 mph and includes a carbon-fiber engine cover, gray brake calipers, and ceramic front brakes.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The RS5 coupe isn’t complicated by various trim levels. Instead, the freedom of personalization is expressed through various performance, technology, and appearance packages. We’d paint ours with the optional Navarra Blue Metallic and nix the chrome window trim with the Black Optic Carbon package, which also adds stylish 20-inch wheels. To give our RS5 more flavor, we’d add the Dynamic package that includes red brake calipers, a sport exhaust with black tips, and a sport suspension with Audi’s Dynamic Ride Control for improved handling.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Under the RS5's sinewy clamshell hood sits a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V-6 that pumps out 444 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The power routes through Audi's rear-biased Quattro all-wheel-drive system via a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. Floor the gas pedal to feel the coupe's rousing acceleration. Too bad the accompanying soundtrack isn't particularly inspiring, especially compared with how good the old V-8 sounded. Behind the wheel, the meanest version of Audi's sports coupe is easy to control and enjoyable to exploit, with docile handling that is predictable in both wet and dry conditions. However, the last version we drove was equipped with the available variable-ratio Dynamic Steering, which has an uneven feel in Comfort and Auto drive modes. Switching to the Dynamic setting results in a fixed ratio that's more satisfying, but we recommend skipping the option altogether. The real beauty is how supremely comfortable the RS5 rides over distances short or long. While rivals such as the M4 and the C63 coupe demand more attention during spirited sessions, the Audi is still involving and intoxicating.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The RS5 coupe only has one powertrain and standard all-wheel drive, which means it gets one set of fuel-economy ratings from the EPA. The government estimates that the high-powered coupe will get 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. However, we haven't had a chance to evaluate its real-world efficiency on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen. For more information about the RS5 coupe's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The RS5's interior mixes an array of rich materials and high-tech equipment. The standard front sport seats are supportive during cornering and comfy on road trips. They also feature massage functions to indulge the driver and front passenger. Every cabin includes ambient interior lighting, three-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Those who want an even fancier experience can choose the optional diamond stitching, fully digital gauge cluster, heated steering wheel, and head-up display. Its fantastic driving position and excellent visibility—for a coupe, at least—are complemented by a back seat that will accommodate two adults of average height. While the coupe isn't as capacious as the four-door RS5 Sportback that sports a rear hatchback, the regular RS5 still swallowed five of our carry-on suitcases inside its trunk.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Unlike updated Audi models such as the A6 and A7 sedans, the RS5 doesn't have dual touchscreens that bisect its dashboard and center console. While that makes its infotainment system look less futuristic, we appreciate the RS5's high-mounted 10.1-inch touchscreen. Of course, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability come standard. A 19-speaker, 755-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system is a standalone option.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While Audi supplies some standard driver-assistance technology, upgrades such as automatic high-beams and self-parking assist cost extra. For more information about the RS5 coupe's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Audi provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty compared with luxury rivals such as Mercedes-Benz.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
