The number of Audi’s RS models, developed by their Audi Sport GmbH (or the skunkworks formerly known as quattro GmbH), is due to receive a very significant increase, possibly starting with a fast version of the Q5 based on the newly revealed second-generation version.
Speaking to Motoring, Audi Sport’s CEO Stephan Winkelmann said that “a number” of new high performance SUVs will join the RS ranks, and confirmed that up to 10 new models were currently under development, which could mean that most ‘conventional’ model from Audi could have an accompanying RS variant.
He capped it by teasing an all-new RS model to be premiering at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show next month, perhaps an SUV to accompany the sole RS Q3 currently on offer. Other fast SUVs in the Audi stable include the SQ7 and, prior to that, previous-generation SQ5 - though, none of those were considered worthy of their signature performance brand ‘RS’ (instead of just ’S’).
Winkelmann said: “We’ll have a launch there which is going to be very important for us because it’ll set a new era of the B-segment [Q5 size] of Audi Sport for us. You will see very shortly what is going to happen.”
Details so far are hazy as to what a potential RS Q5 might be like. While we can imagine the sportier exterior and supplied traction from the quattro all-wheel drive system, the engine powering it isn’t as obvious.
The 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 from the current S4 and S5 is a very likely candidate, but in a tune that’s more potent than that of the high(er)-performance SQ5 that has already been announced. This means a power output in excess of 300kW and acceleration more rapid than the 5.4 seconds the SQ5 will need to reach 100km/h from rest.
Perhaps the same 4.0-litre V8 turbodiesel from the SQ7, albeit detuned? It’s unique twin turbocharged layout that’s paired with the electric compressor to boost power and eradicate turbo lag could make the RS Q5 a real performance SUV contender to be feared.
Additionally, a fast version of the newly launched Q2 crossover is also very much a part of Audi Sport’s agenda.
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