The Audi RS5 Coupe (8T, facelift) with the 4.2 FSI V8 engine and S tronic dual-clutch transmission, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a high-performance iteration of Audi’s popular A5 Coupe. This variant sat at the pinnacle of the RS5 lineup, offering a significant step up in power and driving dynamics compared to the standard A5 models and even the S5. It was positioned as a direct competitor to the BMW M4 Coupe and Mercedes-Benz C63 Coupe, aiming to deliver a blend of luxury, performance, and everyday usability. The facelift introduced in 2012 brought revised styling cues, including redesigned headlights and taillights, along with minor interior enhancements.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | RS5 |
| Generation | RS5 Coupe (8T, facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 FSI V8 (450 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 246 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 262.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 8250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 4000-6000 rpm (317.15 lb.-ft. @ 4000-6000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | CFSA |
| Engine displacement | 4163 cm3 (254.04 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2215 kg (4883.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 829 l (29.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4649 mm (183.03 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2020 mm (79.53 in.) |
| Height | 1366 mm (53.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2751 mm (108.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 873 mm (34.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1025 mm (40.35 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent on trapezoidal lever |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the RS5 is the 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine, designated CFSA. This engine is a direct descendant of the V8 used in the R8 supercar, albeit detuned slightly for the RS5’s application. It features direct fuel injection (FSI) and a dry-sump lubrication system, contributing to its high-revving nature and efficient oil management during spirited driving. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 317 lb-ft of torque between 4,000 and 6,000 rpm. The S tronic 7-speed dual-clutch transmission provides incredibly fast and precise gear changes, enhancing the car’s acceleration and responsiveness. The quattro all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, optimizing traction and stability in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The RS5 Coupe with the 4.2 FSI V8 and S tronic delivers a thrilling driving experience. The naturally aspirated engine provides a linear power delivery and a distinctive exhaust note, lacking the turbo lag often associated with forced induction engines. The S tronic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly, whether in automatic or manual mode. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip, allowing for confident cornering and acceleration, even in inclement weather. While not as overtly aggressive as some of its competitors, the RS5 offers a balanced and refined driving experience, making it equally suitable for daily commuting and weekend track days. Compared to the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 found in the S5, the RS5’s V8 offers a more visceral and engaging driving experience, albeit with slightly higher fuel consumption.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RS5 Coupe came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather with diamond stitching, carbon fiber trim, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and a premium sound system. Standard exterior features included a unique RS5 body kit, including aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint colors. The RS5 did not have traditional trim levels; options were largely selected à la carte.
Chassis & Braking
The RS5’s chassis was specifically tuned to complement the high-performance engine and drivetrain. It features a sport-tuned suspension with stiffer springs and dampers, providing improved handling and reduced body roll. The RS5 also benefits from larger brakes compared to the standard A5, with ventilated discs at all four corners. The braking system delivers strong and consistent stopping power, even under repeated hard use. The standard wheels were 19-inch alloy wheels, providing a good balance between aesthetics and performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi RS5 Coupe was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, responsive transmission, and refined driving dynamics. However, some critics noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the BMW M4 Coupe, the RS5 was often seen as being more comfortable and refined, while the M4 offered a more raw and engaging driving experience. Against the Mercedes-Benz C63 Coupe, the RS5 offered a more balanced and composed driving experience, while the C63 provided more outright power and a more aggressive character.
Legacy
The 4.2 FSI V8 engine in the RS5 is known for its reliability, although maintenance costs can be higher than those of turbocharged engines due to the complexity of the engine and its dry-sump lubrication system. The S tronic transmission is also generally reliable, but requires regular servicing. Today, the RS5 Coupe (8T) remains a desirable used car, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its combination of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling. Well-maintained examples command a premium price in the used car market, and the car is increasingly recognized as a modern classic.
