Following a brochure leak, Audi has released official information about the RS5.

Power comes from a 4.2-liter V8 that produces 331 kW (444 hp / 450 PS) and 430 Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a seven-speed S tronic transmission which allows the 1,725 kilogram (3,803 pound) coupe to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, before topping out at an electronically limited 250 km/h (155 mph). If that isn't fast enough, Audi can remove the speed limiter to enable the car to hit 280 km/h (174 mph). Despite this immense performance, the RS5 only consumes 10.8 liters of petrol per 100 km (21.78 US mpg).

Compared to the 354 hp 4.2-liter V8 in the S5 (which will soon be replaced by a supercharged 3.0-liter V6), the RS5 engine features friction reduction technology, "intensive fine-tuning of the dual-branch intake", and a new exhaust system.

To enhance the car's handling, Audi installed a new crown-gear center differential. The self-locking crown-gear "can widely vary the distribution of torque between the front and rear axles. If necessary, up to 70 percent can flow to the front or as much as 85 percent toward the tail end." When extra traction isn't required, the unit has a 40:60 rear-biased configuration. According to Audi, "This new differential operates in conjunction with electronic torque vectoring, which affects all four wheels. If one of the inside wheels becomes imbalanced while the vehicle is at its operational limits, then the system slightly decelerates the wheel to obviate wheel spin. This results in terrific traction on the one hand while generating a yaw moment which aids cornering."

Other performance tweaks include a revised braking system (ceramic carbon-fiber brakes are optional), a modified electronic stabilization program (which can be turned off completely), and a recalibrated speed-dependent servotronic steering system (dynamic steering is optional).

In terms of styling, the RS5 features an aggressive body kit, a reduced ride height (20mm/0.79" lower the Audi A5), and 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels (20-inchers are optional). Other highlights include twin oval exhaust pipes (which are integrated in the rear bumper), a large diffuser, and a rear spoiler which automatically extends at 120 km/h (75 mph) and retracts at 80 km/h (50 mph).

Inside, the RS5 has leather/Alcantara sports seats, a sport steering wheel, carbon fiber inlays, piano black accents, and aluminum trim.

Look for the RS5 to go on sale in Germany this spring, with a base price of approximately 77,700 euros. No information regarding UK has been released.  The RS5 will most likely not be available in the US.

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