SPY PICS: 2025 Audi RS 5 Avant caught testing PHEV powertrain

Audi is preparing to follow its German rivals by moving to electrification for its mid-size performance models, with our spy photographers spotting a next-generation Audi RS 5 fitted with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The PHEV system remains under wraps, but Audi Sport executives have previously indicated that a twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain is on the cards for its combustion-engined RS 4 Avant replacement– to be known as RS 5 Avant, in keeping with Audi’s new ICE/EV naming strategy – which would provide an important point of difference to the four-cylinder-based powerplants found in the latest Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance.

Audi could, however, follow AMG with a switch to a potent electrified twin-turbocharged four-cylinder unit, so the jury’s still out on what exactly lies underneath the bonnet of the engineering prototype you see here.

By the looks of it, Audi’s incoming electrified M3 Touring rival will cut a striking pose with formidably wide rear haunches, angular front apron and rakish roofline.

The RS 4 Avant – in traditional ICE form, at least – is set to be discontinued as Audi reserves even-numbered nameplates for battery-electric model lines going forward.

The current RS 5 is available in coupe, convertible and Sportback body styles, so adding Avant for the next generation makes sense.

The current RS 4 Avant produces 331kW/600Nm from its twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 and stops the clock from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds.

Outputs of at least 400kW/800Nm are expected for the RS 5 PHEV, although it’s unclear whether Audi Sport engineers will look to match the 500kW/1020Nm found in the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance.

Our sources tell us the new RS 5 will debut in 2025, so we don’t have too long to wait to find out what’s lurking under the bonnet.

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