It’s the end of the line for Audi’s RS 5 Coupe and Cabriolet. This bahn-stormer has been a surprising success in Canada, selling over 850 units since its launch back in 2013. Part of its success comes from its intoxicating power, sybaritic luxury, and all-weather traction – something that rivals from Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz don’t offer.
For its final year in production, Audi has upped the level of standard equipment so it’s more in line with the competition. A reverse camera is now standard, as is navigation, an HD radio, and heated and ventilated front seats (the convertible also offers an integrated neck-warmer). Also standard is a Bang and Olufsen sound system, which was formerly a $1,000 option. All in all, it’s a pretty big step up in equipment, but the base price has crept up by more than $6,000.
Also new for its final year are different wheel designs, plus a few new colours: Mythos Black joins the coupe range, while the Convertible sees Glacier White, Sepang Blue, and Mythos Black offered.
For those who want something extra special, Audi Canada will be making 10 RS 5 Sport Editions available. All of them are coupes, and feature Daytona Grey paint with a two-tone black and red interior, with red stitching and seat piping. Red-painted calipers and 20-inch V-spoke wheels are also included.
All RS 5s come powered by Audi’s legendary 4.2-litre naturally aspirated engine which creates 450 hp and 317 lb-ft and belts out a wicked sound as it’s wound out to its 8,300-rpm redline. There’s a pretty good chance this will be the final application of this engine as Audi shifts towards turbocharged power for performance vehicles.
The RS 5 benefits from a seven-speed dual-clutch automated transmission and gets all-wheel drive as standard, making it the only vehicle in the segment that’s suitable for winter use in Canada. Though the RS 5’s habitat is more autobahn than race circuit, it can be fitted with carbon ceramic rotors for the front wheels for extra stopping power.
Even with its mesh grille and large intake vents, the RS 5 is subdued in appearance. Blistered fenders hide a widened track, and the retractable rear spoiler stays hidden at speeds of less than 75 mph.
Though the RS 5 has serious performance chops, it’s a very usable all-round vehicle. The trunk is decently sized for both the coupe and convertible, and there’s enough rear legroom for adults to travel for short distances. All RS 5s are impeccably well finished, too with fine Nappa leather upholstery and first-rate build quality.
The 2015 Audi RS 5 Coupe is priced from $84,000 with the Convertible selling for $96,000.
