2013 Audi RS 5: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for 2013 is the Audi RS 5's U.S. debut. It arrives as the facelifted B8.5 coupe, so this is a major lineup arrival rather than a carryover year.
About the 2013 Audi RS 5
B8.5 generation, first U.S. model year of the facelifted RS 5.
Audi positions the RS 5 as the hardest-edged version of the A5: a compact grand-touring performance car that mixes a high-revving V8, quattro grip, and sharper RS chassis tuning with an upscale cabin and everyday road manners. The point is not bare-bones track-car drama. It is a fast, polished, all-weather four-seat Audi that feels special on a back road but still works as a comfortable long-distance car.
Audi positioned the 2013 RS 5 as the peak-performance A5: a fast, all-weather grand tourer with a more muscular look and more focused handling than the A5 or S5. Its signature hardware includes a high-revving 450-hp V8, quattro all-wheel drive, an RS-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes. Fine Nappa leather sport seats and a flat-bottom steering wheel add to its performance-focused cabin.
What changed, by category
2013 Audi RS 5 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 4.2 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 7-Spd S trnc Spt |
| Drivetrain | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22–23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 450 hp |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 26.5–29.2 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.7–31.9 in |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Rear View Camera | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| Panorama Moon Roof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Satellite Radio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Remote Start | |
| Ventilated Front Seats | |
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2013 Audi RS 5?
The biggest change is that 2013 marks the Audi RS 5's first U.S. model year. It brings the high-performance A5 formula to America with a V8, dual-clutch automatic, quattro all-wheel drive, and RS-specific chassis tuning.
Is the 2013 Audi RS 5 a full redesign?
No, the 2013 RS 5 is not a clean-sheet redesign of the entire A5 line. It is the first U.S. RS 5 and belongs to the facelifted B8.5 generation, with updated styling and interior details from the refreshed 2013 A5 family.
What engine and transmission does the 2013 Audi RS 5 have?
The 2013 Audi RS 5 has a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 producing 450 horsepower, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It also has launch control.
Does the 2013 Audi RS 5 have all-wheel drive?
Yes, the 2013 Audi RS 5 has quattro all-wheel drive. Its newer crown-gear center differential works with a standard sport rear differential to distribute power for stronger traction and more responsive handling.
Was there a 2012 Audi RS 5 in the United States?
No, 2013 was the Audi RS 5's first U.S. model year. That makes the 2013 car a U.S. market debut rather than an update to a 2012 U.S.-market RS 5.