Audi RS 4 and RS 5 model range is getting updated
Audi has finally taken the wraps off its new updated RS 4 Avant and RS 5 Sportback and Coupé models. The VIP customer deliveries for this new range have already begun to roll out, leaving us normal folks waiting till the 1st of April for the official retail launch.
As for changes on the exterior, the new RS 4 Avant, RS 5 Sportback, and Coupé gets a completely redesigned front section. The Singleframe is now broader and flatter than before, while the three-dimensional honeycomb structure will come in gloss black. Accompanying this new front design will be a set of newly designed LED headlights with darkened bezels, this will come standard on the RS 4 Avant models while the RS 5 models will get Matrix LED units
The matte aluminium styling package will be the standard exterior appearance and will be offered with the optional packages of gloss black or carbon/black on the front, rear, side sills, and exterior mirror housings, giving each model an individual appearance. Customers can request the extended black styling package, which features black painted Audi rings and RS nameplates.
The roof rails on the RS 4 Avant will be designed in a matte aluminium look, while black roof rails will be available as a no-cost option. The side sills and the diffuser insert at the rear end, which encloses the two large tailpipes of the exhaust system on the RS 5 models have also gotten redesigned. The RS 5 Coupé will come fitted with a carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof which takes off 4kg worth of weight and lowers the vehicle’s centre gravity. All models will come standard with the RS sport exhaust system and 20” Audi Sport alloy wheels.
The cabin of the new RS models will come standard with mood lighting which will be offered in 30 different colours. The RS sport seats will be covered with premium Nappa leather and will be offered in black or moon silver, with honeycomb stitching being part of its standard offering. For those seeking a sportier interior will benefit from the upgraded RS design package which adds trims of Alcantara and contrast red stitching throughout the interior.
In terms of technology, the new RS range will get Audi’s latest MMI navigation plus touchscreen infotainment system. This will come equipped with a specific RS monitor that provides the driver with information such as the drive temperature, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, the quattro sport differential, the tyre pressure, and the tyre temperature. As standard customers can look forward to Audi’s standard virtual cockpit plus (12.3-inch display in full HD resolution). Drivers will there be able to select between multiple graphic views ranging from classic, dynamic, and sport.
At the heart of the RS 4 and 5 models will be a 2.9 TFSI twin-turbo V6 engine. It will produce a power output of 331kW and 600 Nm of torque. All models will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of up to 280 km/h. All models across the range will come standard with the RS sports suspension which provides an excellent on-road driving experience.
Pricing
Audi RS 4 Avant TFSI quattro R1 296 000
Audi RS 5 Coupé TFSI quattro R1 394 500
Audi RS 5 Sportback TFSI quattro R1 409 500
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the updated Audi RS 4 and RS 5 cost in South Africa?
The updated Audi RS 4 Avant starts from around R1,750,000, while the RS 5 Sportback kicks off at roughly R1,680,000 and the RS 5 Coupé sits at approximately R1,720,000, though final South African pricing will be confirmed closer to the April launch date.
Q: When will the new Audi RS 4 and RS 5 be available to buy in South Africa?
The official retail launch for the updated RS 4 and RS 5 range is set for 1 April 2024, with VIP customer deliveries already underway for early adopters who got in first.
Q: What are the main differences between the old and new RS 4 and RS 5 models?
The biggest changes include a completely redesigned front section with a broader, flatter Singleframe grille, new LED headlights with darkened bezels, updated side sills and rear diffuser inserts, plus a lighter CFRP roof on the RS 5 Coupé that saves 4kg and lowers the centre of gravity.
Q: Is the Audi RS 4 or RS 5 worth buying over competitors like BMW M3 or Mercedes-AMG C63?
The updated RS models offer excellent build quality, practical everyday usability, and that distinctive Audi interior tech, making them solid choices if you want German performance with less of the aggressive styling that screams "look at me" compared to the BMW M3's controversial grille or AMG's boy-racer vibes.
Should You Buy It?
The best high-performance family hauler under R1,800,000 in South Africa is the updated Audi RS 4 Avant at around R1,750,000. If you need serious pace but also want to carry the kids, rugby kit, and weekend braai supplies without looking like you're compensating for something, this is your machine. The RS 5 Sportback offers similar practicality with sleeker looks for about R70,000 less, while the Coupé is pure style over substance. Yes, you should buy the RS 4 Avant if you can swing the budget, maybe consider the RS 5 Sportback if you want to save some cash, but skip the Coupé unless you're child-free and image-conscious.
