Achtung! The 2018 Audi RS5 has just arrived

If you’re in the market for an aggressive German coupe with touches of motorsport heritage and luxury, you may want to consider Audi’s latest offering. Recently launched at an exclusive media event, Audi Philippines gave us the chance to feast our eyes on the 2018 Audi RS5 in person. While the first generation was launched in 2013, a lot has changed since then as Audi’s second generation, all-wheel drive, turbocharged beast makes it to our shores.

Being the first Audi Sport model to feature the latest RS design, the A5, already looking pretty slick, has been transformed into a 450-hp monster. The 2.9 TFSI V6 biturbo engine, which Audi developed from the ground up, replaces the old V8. With a peak torque of 600 Nm, 170 Nm more than the previous model, this variant in the A5 family sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h and, with the optional RS dynamic package, can even reach 280 km/h.

A sport-tuned eight-speed tiptronic transmission takes care of managing the power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system with a self-locking central differential, or a standard rear sport differential if desired. An active center differential typically sends 60 percent of power to the rear wheels, but can throw a maximum of 85 percent back there, or 70 to the front when needed. Additionally, the active, mechanical rear differential can vector all that torque to either left or right wheel, helping to drive the car through the corners. Audi Sport also offers the RS sport suspension plus with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) with RS-specific tuning, and the optional ceramic brakes and dynamic steering. Drivers can personalize their experience by using Audi drive select.

A true RS model, the front is dominated by massive air intakes with honeycomb design. You’ll also find additional inlets and outlets next to the headlights and rear lights. A spoiler lip is thrown in for good measure, as are the bulging wheel arches that hint at the intentions of this vehicle, while the 20-inch wheels finish off the look nicely. You’ll also spot the RS-specific oval tailpipes and diffuser.

On the inside, expect a predominantly black theme, with optional contrasting red stitching and Nappa leather seats in the RS design package. Alcantara is found on the steering wheel, gear lever, and knee padding. The steering wheel is also flat bottomed and proudly wearing the RS badge. Special RS displays in the Audi virtual cockpit provide a myriad of information, including G forces, tire pressure, and torque.