Next Audi Q5 set to get 300kW RS version

Audi will finally offer an RS version of its Q5 SUV, according to new reports.

The next-generation mid-size SUV will be based on Volkswagen Group’s MQB architecture and is set to be both wider and longer than the old version but weigh in at a substantial 100kg less than the current car.

The second-gen Q5 will also share suspension components with the Porsche Macan, but instead of bagging the Macan Turbo’s 300kW/550Nm 3.0-litre, the range-topping RS model will come with an Audi’s own 2.5-lire turbocharged five-cylinder that powers the current RS 3 hot hatch, says German car magazine, Autobild.

Under the bonnet, the compact five-cylinder donk is expected to match the small Porsche SUV’s 300kW but not quite measure up to the muscular torque output the bigger 3.0-litre churns out.

Despite this, if you factor in the lower kerb weight and the fact the Audi SUV is likely to nab the RS3’s seven-speed dual-clutch auto, expect the fastest RS Q5 to post a sub-five second 0-100km/h time and be speed-limited to 250km/h.

With the arrival of an RS version, it’s not known what direction the replacement for the current range’s diesel-powered SQ5 will take. That car comes powered with a 250kW/700Nm 3.0-litre turbo-diesel that hurtles the SQ5 to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds -- making it uncomfortably quick beside the forthcoming RS version.

This means it’s likely to be dropped from the range to make space for the full-fat RS.

According to Autobild, Audi’s Q5 will also be offered with a range of powerful 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines instead.