The Audi RS e-tron GT is so impressive that even traditional driving enthusiasts will overlook its electric nature.
Before EVs became mainstream, car manufacturers invested millions to boost performance from high-powered engines by redesigning components and upgrading forced induction systems. With EVs, achieving high performance is simpler. Take the 2025 e-tron GT family, for example.
In June, the sleek electric sedan received a significant update, transforming it from a modest performance boost into a supercar competitor. The new flagship RS e-tron GT Performance delivers an impressive 912 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 2.5 seconds.
While we await the arrival of this new model in showrooms, we had the opportunity to drive the outgoing 2024 RS e-tron GT. Although it has less power than the upcoming 2025 S e-tron GT, it still delivers exceptional performance and stands out as one of the finest sedans we’ve ever driven.
Mind-Blowing Figures
Audi introduced the e-tron GT family a few years ago, but it only became available in Australia in 2023. Before experiencing the RS model, we spent time with the e-tron GT, which served as an excellent precursor but couldn’t fully prepare us for what was to come.
The numbers are impressive, starting with the RS e-tron GT’s high price tag. It begins at AU$246,875 ($166,000) before delivery and on-road costs, which is about AU$70,000 ($47,000) more than the base model.
Although the price is steep, it’s well-deserved. The standard model features dual electric motors producing 350 kW (469 hp) and 630 Nm (456 lb-ft). In contrast, the RS model boosts output to 440 kW (590 hp) and 830 Nm (612 lb-ft) under normal driving conditions. With boost mode activated, peak power increases to 475 kW (637 hp).
Visually, the RS model doesn’t differ much from the standard e-tron GT, which is somewhat disappointing. While it features distinctive 21-inch alloy wheels, the front and rear fascias are nearly identical to those of the regular model. Even the wheel arches, which have been dramatically styled on other RS models, remain unchanged here.
Despite our belief that Audi could have done more to make the EV stand out as a true RS, it doesn’t diminish the fact that this is one of the most stunning cars currently on the market. From every angle, it exudes beauty. The lines are sleek, the body is low and wide, and it stands out as one of the most attractive Audis of this century.
The Ideal Audi Interior?
Audi has done an excellent job of making the RS e-tron GT’s cabin feel exceptional.
Unlike the standard e-tron GT, which can seem somewhat basic and includes some less premium materials, the RS model is a significant upgrade. Our press car featured the AU$4,550 (~$3,000) RS Design package in red. This package includes a luxurious Alcantara steering wheel and trims the upper dashboard, center console, and armrests in Nappa leather, which is notably softer than the leather in the standard e-tron GT. It also adds Audi’s Dinamica microfiber to the center console, door inserts, and instrument panel cover, with red contrast stitching and new floor mats featuring red accents.
Further enhancing the RS e-tron GT was the AU$8,400 (~$5,650) Sensory package, which elevates the cabin even more. This package includes massage functions for the front seats, heated outer rear seats, carbon fiber door sills with illuminated RS logos, and a headliner finished in black Dinamica.
The impact of these new materials is significant, making the car feel well worth its price tag. However, it would be preferable if the microfiber and Nappa leather were standard features on the RS rather than optional extras. The cabin also includes ample carbon fiber accents, such as on the door panels and dashboard, and an elaborate ambient lighting system enhances the premium atmosphere, complemented by the standard panoramic glass roof.
Read: Someone Was Brave Enough to Modify This Audi RS e-Tron GT
In terms of technology, the RS e-tron GT mirrors the standard model with its 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display, 10.1-inch central screen, and head-up display. The driving position is impeccable, and the massaging seats are among the best we’ve experienced, providing a sensation almost akin to a professional massage rather than the usual mild back-and-forth motion of typical massaging seats.
Though the RS e-tron GT is designed to seat five, the middle rear seat is quite cramped and hindered by a large tunnel, reducing its practicality as a five-seater. As a four-seater, however, it excels. The front seats offer excellent bolstering and adjustability, while the rear seats provide similarly supportive comfort.
Forget Everything You Knew About Sedans
Even though I had driven the standard e-tron GT to prepare for the RS, the performance of this car on the road is truly astonishing. It’s an experience that must be felt to be fully appreciated.
Let’s start with the straight-line speed. Audi’s 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 3.3 seconds for the 2024 model might not seem groundbreaking compared to Tesla and Lucid’s sedans that reach the same speed in under 2 seconds. However, the RS e-tron GT is undeniably fast.
Watch: Ken Block Drifts in His All-White Audi RS e-tron GT
To experience its full potential, you need to use launch control and wait for the power meter to reach 125% before releasing the brakes. Even in wet conditions with traction control off, the car accelerates without any wheelspin and gains speed at an extraordinary rate. The real thrill comes when you feel the second surge of acceleration as the car shifts into second gear around 85 km/h (~53 mph). My best recorded time, with two passengers, was 3.1 seconds using the car’s onboard timer.
What’s even more impressive is the consistency of this acceleration. As long as the battery is above ~30% charge, the RS e-tron GT repeatedly accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in the low 3-second range, a feat that other similarly powerful EVs, like the Kia EV6, struggle to match.
Accelerating in the RS e-tron GT feels like being propelled by a bullet, while driving it on a mountain road is like experiencing the Ferrari rollercoaster in Abu Dhabi.
The impressive handling package starts with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 tires, with 265/35 at the front and a substantial 305/30 at the rear. The car also features double wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, both equipped with advanced adaptive dampers. These dampers are arguably the standout feature of the vehicle.
They have three chambers at both the front and rear axles, which are activated or deactivated depending on the driving mode. In the standard mode, all three chambers work to soften the suspension, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. During intense braking or high acceleration, only one or two of the chambers are engaged, minimizing body movement and keeping the car stable and flat through corners.
The RS model comes standard with a rear-axle differential lock, which is optional on the regular e-tron GT. This differential can be adjusted variably with a locking range from zero to 100%, enabling targeted torque vectoring and braking of the inside rear wheel during cornering. Additionally, the RS features all-wheel steering.
The performance of these systems is extraordinary. The Audi accelerates effortlessly up mountain passes, and reaching the limits of traction on the road is nearly impossible. Despite the car’s weight of 2,420 kg (5,335 lbs), I couldn’t induce even the slightest hint of understeer. Disabling the traction control and applying throttle with some steering lock will cause the rear to break loose, but it remains easily manageable.
Like the standard e-tron GT, the RS offers five different ride heights and is equally adept at cruising and tackling corners. It’s one of the most comfortable cars I’ve ever driven.
A simulated soundtrack enhances the driving experience. When switched to Dynamic mode, the RS e-tron GT emits a distinctive hum that can be heard from over a hundred feet away. Although it’s synthetic, it adds to the car’s excitement and is quite enjoyable.
As a passionate driving enthusiast who usually prefers a powerful internal combustion engine and a manual transmission, I was pleasantly surprised by the RS e-tron GT. Despite being electric and lacking a roaring V8 like the RS6, I never felt bored or disappointed during my week with the Audi. It truly impresses.
Verdict
The RS e-tron GT sets a high standard for premium sedans. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, it is stunning to look at, thrilling to drive, and makes you feel special every time you get behind the wheel.
With the facelifted e-tron GT range promising even greater performance and current prices for used RS e-tron GTs dropping, now might be an excellent opportunity to find a great deal on an ex-demo or lightly used 2023 or 2024 model.
