Introduction

In 2011, Audi introduced a particular car known as the Audi RS5. This car was like a supercharged version of their regular Audi A5 from the first generation of A5 cars. The Audi RS5 came with many improvements in its engine and how its parts were set up to make it drive well. They made changes to make the Audi RS5 go faster and look more aggressive and sportier on the outside. They began making this first version of the Audi RS5 in 2010 and continued to build it until 2015. After that, they started making the Second Generation of the RS5.

Engine Performance

The Audi RS5 stands out because it has a unique 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine and Le Mans-winning fuel-injection technology. This technology makes the engine perform better regarding torque, power, and how efficiently it uses fuel. So, not only is the engine powerful, but it also uses its power very effectively.

The launch control in the Audi RS5 helps you start the car quickly by using the brakes and the gas pedal together. This means the vehicle can go from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 4.6 seconds. When you press the gas pedal, the engine delivers power smoothly and quickly, no matter how fast you want. So, whenever you want more control, the machine is always ready to give you the desired speed.

Transmission

Driving is all about moving forward, and the S tronic dual-clutch transmission in the Audi RS5 helps with that. It works like having two separate gear systems: one handles gears like 1st, 3rd, and 5th, while the other handles gears like 2^nd and 4^th.

Here’s how it works: When you accelerate in second gear, the transmission is already preparing to shift to third gear. And when you decide to make the shift, it’s already gearing up for fourth. This smooth and quick gear transition happens because the two clutches work together, ensuring you experience a seamless and steady increase in power as you drive.

Audi RS5 First Generation Interior

The car’s dashboard has a stylish design with leather covering it in two colors. It also has shiny metal and chrome details, which add to the attractive look of the RS5’s interior. The dark colors used in the design give it a very classy feel. In the center of the dashboard is a screen displaying information and controls for the entertainment system. Below this screen, you’ll find some buttons that light up. Additionally, the steering wheel has buttons and a unique display for the driver.

The front seats in the car are comfortable, almost like cozy buckets. You can adjust them in ten different ways to find your perfect position. They also have lower back support and can warm up, which is nice. As for the back seats, they can be divided into two parts and folded down to create more space. The seats are covered in a special kind of leather called suede. If you prefer something softer, you can choose a type of leather called Alcantara suede.

The front seats can be moved with the push of a button to help you get in and out of the car quickly. The air conditioning in the car is brilliant; it can be set to different areas inside the vehicle and adjust itself to keep everyone comfortable. There’s also a voice-activated navigation system, which means you can talk to the car to get directions. You can use the sunroof if you want some fresh air without opening the side windows. Plus, the Audi RS5 remembers how you like the driver’s seat positioned for added convenience.

The heated front seats in the Audi RS5 come with exceptional electric support for your lower back. These seats are RS Super Sports and can be adjusted electronically. They are covered in smooth Silk Nappa leather and feature contrasting lines and an RS logo stamped, adding to their stylish look and comfort.

Infotainment of First-Generation Audi RS5

At that time, the Audi RS5 Coupe came equipped with the latest Audi MMI interface. It manages a 7.0-inch screen that provides information and entertainment features. This screen can connect wirelessly to your phone, and there are USB ports for additional connections. It also has a standard AM/FM radio, and if you want, you can opt for a subscription to SiriusXM Radio and even get a CD player integrated into the dashboard for your music needs.

The car’s infotainment system is linked to 10 high-quality speakers for a great audio experience. If you’re an audiophile and want even better sound, you can choose an upgrade with 14 Bang and Olufsen speakers. This upgrade includes a powerful amplifier and unique technology to enhance the sound quality further. You can control the information and entertainment features using buttons on the dashboard and manage your music with buttons on the steering wheel.

Exterior of First-Generation Audi RS5

The Audi RS5 Coupe comes with adjustable intelligent lighting, which includes Xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights at the front. The lights at the back are also LEDs. Additionally, there’s a unique system in place to clean the headlights when needed.

Trunk Space

The 2011 Audi RS5 version has a spacious trunk holding up to 12.0 cubic feet of cargo. Even more convenient is that the box can open and close automatically with power assistance.

Quattro with Sports differential

The Audi RS 5 features an updated version of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. This system has been aiding Audi’s race performance since 1980. The latest version is lighter by 2.5 kilograms and more compact. They’ve introduced a crucial component called a crown-gear center differential. This new addition helps the car grip the road more securely because it can lock effectively.

Additionally, a torque vectoring function distributes different power levels to each wheel as required. This feature allows the car to maintain a firm grip on the road, precisely manage its movements, and stay stable when driving, even in challenging road conditions.

Dimensions

The pictures of the RS 5 Sedan with measurements provide precise information about its size. You can use these images to determine if the car will fit in your garage and your luggage will fit in the trunk.

• Maximum headroom
• The measurements are in millimeters.
• Luggage compartment volume in liters: 455 with the seats up and 829 with the rear seats folded down (measured using a specific method). The turning circle is approximately 11.6 meters.
• Dimensions were taken when the vehicle was empty, and the ground clearance was measured with the car carrying its heaviest load.

Pros

✓ Excellent Road Traction

✓ Surprisingly Fast

✓ Incredible Engine Sound

Cons

✘ The ride is substantial.

✘ Steering lacks excitement.

✘ Lacks engagement.

Specifications

Safety

The Audi RS5 introduced innovative technology to enhance your awareness and safety while driving, covering all angles.

• Audi’s advanced parking system creates alert sounds and images if anything comes closer to the car while parking. The back of the vehicle can be seen using a sensor and camera. But you can only get the camera with a technology package.
• Audi’s side assist helps when you want to change lanes. Special sensors are used for checking the behind of the car. If there’s a car you can’t see or a fast-coming vehicle, it shows a warning in your side mirror. You can turn on this system with a button on the driver’s door.
• Audi’s hill-hold assist does something special. It automatically puts on the parking brake when the car is not moving.

Fuel Economy

Automotive Journalist Review

It was the RS4 sedan that marked a prominent turning point for the four-ringed brand in terms of a more involving drive experience than some of its forebears. With that in mind, we expected even greater things from the RS5, but it has taken a more subtle path. (Stuart Martin, Cars Guide)

Conclusion

Indeed, the Audi RS5 is a high-performance vehicle boasting an impressive exterior design, a luxurious interior, and a potent V8 engine that genuinely defines it as a sports car. Its exceptional handling and advanced safety features make it a practical and safe choice for daily driving. However, when compared, it needs to catch up to the M3 coupe in terms of performance.

Harper Harrison

Harper Harrison is a reporter for The Hear UP. Harper got an internship at the NPR and worked as a reporter and producer. harper has also worked as a reporter for the Medium. Harper covers health and science for The Hear UP.