The Audi RS5 Sportback (F5, facelifted in 2020) represents the pinnacle of performance within the A5 Sportback range. Introduced as a more practical alternative to the RS5 Coupe, the Sportback combines the aggressive styling and high-performance capabilities of the RS5 with the added versatility of a five-door fastback design. The 2.9 TFSI V6 variant, producing 450 horsepower and paired with Audi’s eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, arrived with the 2020 facelift, solidifying the RS5 Sportback’s position as a direct competitor to vehicles like the BMW M5 Competition and Mercedes-AMG C 63 S. This iteration builds upon the foundation laid by the initial F5 generation RS5, offering enhanced technology and refinement.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS5 |
| Generation | RS5 Sportback (F5, facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.9 TFSI V6 (450 Hp) quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Fastback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 9.4-9.8 l/100 km (25 – 24 US mpg, 30.1 – 28.8 UK mpg, 10.6 – 10.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 213-223 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg, 23.2 UK mpg, 8.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 258.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 344.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 5700-6700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 155.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1900-5000 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1900-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DECA |
| Engine displacement | 2894 cm3 (176.6 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.7 l (15.53 US qt | 12.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1742 kg (3840.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2322 kg (5119.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 465 l (16.42 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4783 mm (188.31 in.) |
| Width | 1866 mm (73.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1387-1399 mm (54.61 – 55.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2826 mm (111.26 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1588 mm (62.52 in.) |
| Front overhang | 918 mm (36.14 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1039 mm (40.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 17° |
| Departure angle | 12.6° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/35 ZR19 98Y XL |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi RS5 Sportback (F5, facelift 2020) with the 2.9 TFSI V6 engine and tiptronic transmission represents a significant evolution of Audi’s high-performance Sportback formula. Launched as part of the broader F5 generation A5/S5/RS5 family, the Sportback body style offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality. The 2020 facelift brought with it a more aggressive exterior design, updated interior technology, and crucially, a refined version of the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. Positioned as the top-tier performance variant of the A5 Sportback, it caters to drivers seeking exhilarating performance without sacrificing everyday usability. It slots above the S5 Sportback, offering a substantial power increase and more focused driving dynamics.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the RS5 Sportback is the DECA engine, a 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6. This engine, shared with other performance models within the Volkswagen Group (like the Porsche Panamera), utilizes a 90-degree V-angle for optimal balance and smoothness. The engine employs a direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chambers for improved efficiency and responsiveness. Each cylinder features four valves, contributing to enhanced breathing and power output. The twin-scroll turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission is specifically tuned for rapid and precise gear changes, complementing the engine’s performance characteristics. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, providing exceptional traction and stability in all conditions. The system typically operates with a rear-biased distribution, enhancing the car’s dynamic handling.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.9 TFSI V6 engine, paired with the tiptronic transmission, delivers a potent and refined driving experience. The 450 horsepower and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque provide effortless acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 3.7 seconds. The tiptronic transmission offers smooth and quick shifts, whether in automatic mode or when manually controlled via the steering wheel-mounted paddles. While the automatic transmission doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox, it provides consistent performance and ease of use. The quattro all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence, providing exceptional grip and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The RS5 Sportback feels planted and composed, even when pushed hard through corners. Compared to the six-cylinder S5 Sportback, the RS5 offers a significantly more aggressive power delivery and a more focused driving experience. It lacks the raw, visceral feel of some rear-wheel-drive competitors, but its all-weather capability and refined performance make it a compelling option.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS5 Sportback (2020 facelift) came generously equipped as standard. Key features included Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a flat-bottomed steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara, RS sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather with honeycomb stitching, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. Exterior features included a distinctive RS honeycomb grille, large oval exhaust outlets, and a rear diffuser. Optional extras included carbon fiber trim elements, RS ceramic brakes, and dynamic suspension with adjustable dampers. The interior typically featured a dark color scheme with red accents, emphasizing the car’s sporty character. Audi offered a range of customization options, allowing buyers to personalize their RS5 Sportback to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The RS5 Sportback features a sophisticated chassis designed to maximize performance and handling. It utilizes an independent multi-link suspension setup at both the front and rear, providing excellent wheel control and ride comfort. The suspension is specifically tuned for the RS model, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard A5 Sportback. Large, ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Optional RS ceramic brakes offer even greater stopping performance and reduced brake fade. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The car’s electronic stability control system is finely tuned to allow for a degree of controlled oversteer while maintaining stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2020 facelifted Audi RS5 Sportback was generally well-received by automotive critics. Praise was directed towards its powerful engine, refined transmission, and all-weather capability. Some critics noted that the car’s steering lacked the ultimate feel of some competitors, and that the automatic transmission, while competent, didn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as a manual gearbox. Compared to the S5 Sportback, the RS5 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy, while respectable for a high-performance vehicle, was not a strong point, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 9.4-9.8 l/100 km. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Audi RS5 Sportback (F5, facelift 2020) has established itself as a desirable and capable high-performance Sportback. The 2.9 TFSI V6 engine has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant, and the tiptronic transmission has generally held up well over time. On the used car market, these models command a premium price, reflecting their performance capabilities and relative rarity. The RS5 Sportback continues to be a popular choice for drivers seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and refinement. Its combination of a powerful engine, all-wheel drive, and a well-appointed interior ensures its continued appeal in the years to come.
