Along with the A5 Coupe, Sportback and Cabriolet, the RS5 also gets updated in 2012. The mighty 4.2-liter V8 has been left alone this time, but the steering system has been replaced with a new electromechanical power-steering system, which reduces CO2 emissions to 246 g/km.
The 4.2-liter V8 delivers 444 horsepower, which are being sent to the all-wheel drive system via the incredibly responsive dual-clutch S-tronic automatic transmission. The all-wheel drive has a front to rear power ratio of 40-60, but can send up to 70 percent of the power to the front wheels, and up to 85 percent of it to the rear.
The 2012 Audi RS5 gets to 60 in 4.3 seconds, and hits a top speed of 174 mph with the electronic speed limiter removed.
Some features which were previously extras, now come as standard on the RS5, including Bluetooth, Cruise Control, smart new headlights and revised alloys. Also, the RS5 is fitted with a sharper bonnet, a new flat-bottomed steering wheel, and the simplified Audi MMi system.
While the changes being brought to the RS5 are subtle, it is fair to say that this vehicle didn’t need that much work done in the first place. We wait to see how it handles on the track and road before we can give any verdict.