2017 Audi RS5 spied testing at the Nurburgring

Even in the world of rarefied German sedans that successfully marries luxury and performance into one potent yet family-friendly package, the ‘RS’ series of cars from Audi holds a special place. We here at ZigWheels know this firsthand because, not too long ago, we had the opportunity to sit behind the wheels of one such innocuous-looking ballistic missile, the RS6. And now, its smaller sibling, the 2017 Audi RS5, has been spotted testing at the world’s most fearsome proving ground, the legendary Nurburgring.

Based on the A5 Coupe – that is, in turn, based on the new Audi A4 that will make its India debut later this year – the characteristic “RS” design traits are clearly visible on the RS5 test mule, even under the heavy camo paint. The new RS5 gets the angry Audi face, XL-sized air intakes, massive wheel arches, and a gorgeous set of alloys. At the rear, it gets a subtle lip spoiler on the boot and not so subtle quad exhausts which, again, are trademark RS elements. There's no scoop on the interiors as yet, but we expect it to borrow heavily from the Audi TT’s cockpit in terms of gadgetry.

Motive power on the 2017 Audi RS5 is expected to come from an all-new engine: a more eco-friendly twin turbo 3.0-litre V6 that is rumoured to be capable of producing around 450PS of power. The power figure is identical to the current generation, but we will definitely miss the glorious exhaust note of the outgoing V8 monster. The new engine is also likely to power the RS4 and the new R8 in the future.

Audi’s future products roadmap, which the company has already disclosed, indicates that the RS5 will likely make its debut in international markets next year. In India, the four-ringed VW subsidiary already sells the RS6 Avant and the RS7. The 2017 Audi RS5 will definitely make a sweet addition to this line-up if its makers decide to launch it here. 

Images: Motor1