If you think a VW GTI doesn’t cut it anymore for your needs, the 2019 Audi RS5 Sportback may be the perfect solution. Making its debut just in time for spring, Audi’s Sport division introduced the RS5 Sportback — highlighted in a striking Sonoma Green — at the Classic Car Club Manhattan on Tuesday, shortly before the New York Auto Show’s media previews began.
Similar to the innovative A7, all members of Audi’s expanding Sportback family — including the A5, S5, and now RS5 — cleverly disguise a liftgate that resembles a sedan or fastback coupe. However, the RS5 Sportback is undeniably a spacious hatchback. According to The Drive’s recollection, this Audi is likely the quickest hatchback ever available in the U.S.
To put things into perspective: the latest Mercedes GLA45 AMG can reach 60 mph in about 4.3 seconds, while the Ford Focus RS and Volkswagen Golf R take approximately 4.5 seconds. At the Classic Car Club Manhattan event, Audi played coy about the RS5’s 0-60 mph time, simply mentioning it’s “under four seconds.” However, since the RS5 Coupe, which I had the pleasure of testing in Arizona last February, achieves this in just 3.7 seconds, we can estimate the Sportback at no worse than 3.8 seconds. Hence, it claims the title of the fastest hatchback in the world, boasting a top speed of 174 mph with the optional Dynamic Plus package, surpassing the 167 mph of the Mercedes GLA45 AMG.
Furthermore, if you’re looking to compare with competitors, the RS5 Sportback not only takes on traditional hatchbacks but also stands up against sleek two-door luxury sedans, such as the 444-hp BMW M3 Competition Pack and Mercedes-AMG’s 503-hp C63 S Coupe. This family-oriented Audi can even keep pace with the Cadillac CTS-V sedan, which boasts a hefty 640 horsepower. In terms of practicality, the Audi outshines performance coupes and sedans by offering **21.8 cubic feet** of cargo space behind its rear seats — nearly double that of some luxury coupes. When the seats are folded down, the hatch expands to approximately **35 cubic feet**.
Now, considering that the Caddy is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, it’s remarkable that the Audi achieves such impressive performance with a smaller displacement of less than half and almost 200 fewer horsepower. (While the Audi benefits from all-wheel-drive traction, it’s still an impressive feat). Like its RS5 Sedan and Coupe counterparts, the Sportback swaps its previous naturally aspirated V8 for [a fashionable](https://www.audi.com) forced induction engine: a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 444 horsepower along with a robust **443 lb-ft** of torque. This RS5 is considerably faster than its V8 rivals, thanks in part to a version of this V6 that also powers the new Porsche Panamera. The V6 is paired with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and permanent Quattro all-wheel drive, distributing 60 percent of torque to the rear under normal conditions. The RS-tuned Quattro system can direct up to 85 percent of torque to the rear wheels and a maximum of 75 percent to the front to enhance traction during cornering. The American version of the RS5 also comes with a standard Audi Sport rear differential to optimize torque distribution and traction. With its standard suspension setup, the RS5’s body is nearly **0.3 inches** lower than the previous model from 2018. Buyers also have the option of a Dynamic Ride Control suspension featuring steel springs with adaptive hydraulic dampers connected via oil lines and a central valve. Additionally, a revamped front five-link suspension and improved steering geometry contribute to sharper handling.
As for its striking aesthetics, the RS5 Sportback features flared fenders that broaden the body by **0.6 inches** compared to the more subdued S5 Sportback. Its wide and flat Singleframe grille is complemented by a bold pair of honeycomb air intakes, while the matte aluminum-optic spoiler features “quattro” script. The RS-designed rear diffuser, prominent oval exhaust outlets, and glossy black lip spoiler ensure that the Audi makes an unforgettable impression. Its sleek curves fit perfectly within the Classic Car Club Manhattan venue, where enthusiasts can explore cars ranging from a vintage 1956 Porsche 550 Spyder to modern marvels like the Lamborghini Huracan.
Audi has remained tight-lipped regarding the price of this RS5 hatchback, which is expected to hit the market in the latter half of **2018**. For reference, the 354-horsepower S5 Coupe starts at **$55,575**, only **$200** more than the S5 Sportback. Therefore, with the 2018 RS5 Coupe beginning at **$70,895**, one can anticipate the 2019 RS5 Sportback to carry a similar price tag as its two-door counterpart. Audi representatives have confirmed that this RS5 is among **20 new models** set to arrive in U.S. dealerships this year, representing an unprecedented influx of vehicles for the brand. Appropriately, this new entry looks poised to become a record-setting hatchback.
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