New Audi RS5 Priced From $70,875

The second-generation RS5 adds more performance, more style, and more refinement to the RS5 lineup. Let’s start with the performance.

The RS5 uses a new 2.9L V6 with twin turbos that makes 444 hp. Combine that with 443 lb-ft of torque – a massive 126 lb-ft more than last year – and you get a hot coupe that can hit 60 mph in under four seconds. That’s nearly a second up on the last-gen car and it can push all the way to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic Plus pack removing the speed limited.

The RS 5’s engine puts the turbos inside the Vee for faster spooling. It can generate up to 21.5 psi of boost, which helps make the torque peak table flat, from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm.

SEE ALSO: 2018 Audi RS 5 Coupe Review

That engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive. The system normally sends 60 percent of the torque rearward but can send up to 70 percent to the back or 85 percent to the front. The car uses a quattro sport rear differential that actively splits torque between the rear wheels.

The RS 5 is 0.28-inches lower than the S5, with dynamic ride control adjustable dampers available. Audi Drive Select lets the driver chose between different modes that alter shift point, steering, and throttle response. Carbon ceramic front brakes are optional getting the RS5 stopped even more quickly.

The RS 5 gets wider fenders, just over half an inch on each side. That helps cover the wider wheels. The grille is wider and flatter than the A5’s, with bigger air intakes. It also has an RS-specific diffuser and rear lip spoiler.

Inside are S sports seats with RS embossing, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and stainless pedals. The RS 5 also offers Audi’s smart phone interface standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Audi virtual cockpit is optional and has an RS-specific display with torque, hp, and g-force displays. The Bang & Olufsen stereo boasts 755-watts and 19 speakers.

The 2018 RS 5 starts at $69,900 (plus $975 destination charge) and is on sale now.

A version of this story originally appeared on Fourtitude.