Audi South Africa's performance story reaches a new pinnacle with the launch of the RS e-tron GT performance

• Audi South Africa continues its ambitious product offensive with the most powerful production Audi ever
• Audi’s first fully electric RS performance model delivers up to 680kW of system output with Launch Control
• New RS technologies, including RS Performance mode and Push-to-Pass, elevate the Gran Turismo driving experience

Johannesburg, JULY 2026 – Audi South Africa today launches the new RS e-tron GT performance, the most powerful production vehicle in the brand's history. As the first fully electric RS performance model, Audi's new flagship takes the RS story to its highest point yet, combining extraordinary power, precision engineering, unmistakable RS character and quattro capability in the most powerful production Audi ever created.

Delivering up to 680kW of system output, the RS e-tron GT performance raises the benchmark for Audi performance while remaining true to the Gran Turismo philosophy of combining exceptional performance with outstanding comfort.

The pinnacle of RS

Developed as the ultimate expression of the RS philosophy, the RS e-tron GT performance brings together decades of Audi Sport expertise in the most powerful production vehicle ever to wear the Four Rings. Every major component has been developed or refined with a singular objective: to deliver uncompromising capability with the precision, control and everyday usability expected of Audi's flagship Gran Turismo.

Producing a maximum electrical output of 550kW, increasing to 680kW in Launch Control mode, the flagship RS model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, or 2.5 seconds with Launch Control, before reaching an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h.

Power is delivered through Audi's legendary quattro drivetrain, producing electrical torque outputs of 409 Nm at the front axle and 590 Nm at the rear. A gross battery capacity of 105 kWh, with 97 kWh net capacity, provides the energy required for both sustained dynamic driving and effortless long-distance touring, with an electric driving range of between 533 and 592 kilometres.

Supporting these extraordinary capabilities is an advanced thermal management system that intelligently regulates the battery, electric motors and cabin climate. The result is repeatable high performance that can be accessed consistently, whether accelerating from a standstill, tackling demanding mountain roads or covering long distances at speed.

Confidence, powered by quattro

For more than four decades, quattro has defined Audi's approach to driving dynamics, giving drivers the confidence to explore every aspect of a vehicle's capability. In the RS e-tron GT performance, that philosophy reaches its most advanced expression yet, combining intelligent all-wheel drive with a new generation of chassis technologies to deliver exceptional precision, stability and control.

Adaptive air suspension is fitted as standard, employing an electronically controlled two-chamber, two-valve system with continuously variable damping on all four wheels. Through Audi drive select, drivers can tailor ride height and suspension characteristics to suit a wide variety of driving conditions, from long-distance comfort to focused dynamic driving. At higher speeds, the system automatically lowers the vehicle to reduce aerodynamic drag, enhancing both efficiency and high-speed stability.

Exclusive to the RS e-tron GT performance, RS Performance mode has been developed to unlock the vehicle's full dynamic potential on demanding roads. By intelligently coordinating the powertrain, suspension, torque distribution, aerodynamics and thermal management, the system delivers exceptional precision, composure and driver engagement, allowing the vehicle to perform consistently even under sustained high loads.

Push-to-Pass introduces another dimension of driver engagement by temporarily unlocking an additional 70 kW of power for up to ten seconds at the touch of a button. Whether overtaking slower traffic or accelerating out of a corner, the system provides an immediate surge of power that transforms every overtaking manoeuvre and corner exit into a distinctly RS experience.

Every detail, distinctly RS

The design of the RS e-tron GT performance is unmistakably Audi Sport. Every surface, line and aerodynamic element has been carefully considered to balance striking visual presence with functional performance, creating a Gran Turismo that is as purposeful as it is beautiful.

Recognising that every RS owner has their own interpretation of performance, Audi offers an extensive range of personalisation options that allow customers to tailor the vehicle's appearance to their individual tastes. From exterior finishes to carbon detailing, every configuration reinforces the flagship character of the RS e-tron GT performance.

South African customers can choose from nine exterior paint finishes, including the new Arkona White, Bedford Green Metallic, Progressive Red Metallic and Nimbus Grey Pearl colours. For those seeking even greater exclusivity, Audi exclusive offers an almost limitless range of bespoke paint finishes.

Standard exterior: The standard exterior features a body-coloured Singleframe grille, body-coloured front side air ducts and exterior mirror housings, black window trims and Audi rings finished in Polar White, creating a clean and purposeful interpretation of the RS design language.

Black Styling package (optional): The optional Black Styling package introduces gloss black front side air ducts and rear diffuser aero channels, Anthracite Grey Audi rings and a choice of gloss black, gloss carbon or matte carbon camouflage mirror housings for a more assertive visual character.

Gloss Carbon package (optional): The Gloss Carbon package replaces key exterior elements with gloss carbon, including the front side air ducts, rear diffuser aero channels and door trim inlays. Customers can further personalise the look through a choice of gloss black, gloss carbon or matte carbon camouflage mirror housings.

Matte Carbon Camouflage package (optional): Available for the first time on an Audi model, the Matte Carbon Camouflage package introduces a distinctive finish inspired by the supercar segment. Created from crushed carbon fibres sealed within a resin matrix, every component displays a unique pattern, ensuring that no two finishes are exactly alike. The package extends this exclusive material to the front side air ducts, rear diffuser aero channels and door trim inlays, and can be paired with gloss black, gloss carbon or matte carbon camouflage mirror housings.

The purposeful design extends beyond aesthetics. Standard 21-inch Audi Sport alloy wheels, the largest and most performance-focused wheels available for the model, are paired with Audi ceramic brakes featuring gloss red brake calipers as standard. Designed to deliver exceptional stopping power under demanding conditions, the lightweight carbon-fibre reinforced ceramic braking system provides outstanding heat dissipation, reduced unsprung weight and impressive durability. Customers seeking a more understated appearance can alternatively specify Audi ceramic brakes with gloss Anthracite Grey brake calipers.

Lighting technology further enhances both design and functionality. Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light, dynamic light sequencing and dynamic indicators deliver precise, high-resolution illumination while selectively masking oncoming traffic, allowing the main beam to remain active wherever possible. At higher speeds, Audi laser light extends the illuminated area significantly further, improving visibility on open roads while reinforcing the vehicle's distinctive lighting signature through its characteristic blue lighting element and X motif.

The RS e-tron GT performance is equipped as standard with a panoramic tinted glass roof that extends seamlessly from the windscreen to the rear window, flooding the cabin with natural light while helping to maintain interior comfort through integrated solar protection. Customers can alternatively specify an optional panoramic glass roof with switchable transparency, allowing the glass to change between transparent and opaque at the touch of a button.

For those seeking an even more focused sporting aesthetic, an optional carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof is available in either a gloss or dark matte finish. Beyond creating a striking visual statement, the lightweight carbon roof contributes to reduced overall vehicle weight, further enhancing agility during dynamic driving.

Signature RS craftsmanship

The cabin of the RS e-tron GT performance reflects Audi Sport's unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, where premium materials, meticulous attention to detail and purposeful design come together to create an environment worthy of the brand's flagship RS model. Every surface has been carefully considered to reinforce the connection between driver and machine while delivering the refinement expected of a Gran Turismo.

Fine Nappa leather, Dinamica microfibre, Graphite Grey inlays and stainless steel pedals combine to create a cabin that feels every bit as purposeful as its exterior. Ambient lighting further enhances the sense of occasion, while the clean, driver-focused layout ensures every control is positioned exactly where it is needed.

Sport Seats Pro are fitted as standard, providing exceptional support during spirited driving while maintaining outstanding long-distance comfort. Featuring integrated head restraints with illuminated RS emblems, extensive electric adjustment, pneumatic side bolsters, seat heating and ventilation, as well as memory functionality for the driver's seat, steering wheel and exterior mirrors, they embody the dual character of the RS e-tron GT performance as both a high-performance RS model and a refined Gran Turismo.

The rear cabin has been designed with the same attention to detail. Shaped outer seats, an additional centre seat and a 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest ensure the vehicle retains the practicality expected of a Gran Turismo without compromising its sporting character.

Customers seeking an even greater level of individuality can choose from optional RS Design Packages in Red or Grey. These introduce fine Nappa leather with contrasting stitching, Dinamica microfibre trim, coloured seat belts and additional RS-specific detailing throughout the cabin, creating a more distinctive sporting ambience.

For those looking to create a truly bespoke interior, Audi exclusive offers extensive opportunities for personalisation, allowing customers to tailor colours, materials and finishes to reflect their own individual style.

Performance at your fingertips

The RS e-tron GT performance places every essential piece of information exactly where it is needed, creating a digital environment that allows drivers to remain fully focused on the road ahead. Combining intuitive interfaces with performance-focused displays, the cockpit has been designed to enhance every journey, whether navigating city streets or exploring the vehicle's full dynamic potential.

At the heart of the cabin is Audi virtual cockpit plus with an exclusive RS layout, presenting key driving information through high-resolution graphics tailored specifically for Audi Sport models. A head-up display further supports the driving experience by projecting critical information directly into the driver's field of vision, allowing them to keep their eyes on the road.

The intuitive digital experience is complemented by MMI navigation plus with MMI touch, Audi connect navigation and infotainment services, Audi connect emergency call and service, the Audi phone box and smartphone interface, ensuring occupants remain seamlessly connected wherever the journey takes them.

Completing the experience is the Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System, delivering immersive, concert-quality audio that transforms every drive into an engaging sensory experience. Together, these technologies reinforce the RS e-tron GT performance's position as Audi's flagship Gran Turismo, seamlessly combining innovation, connectivity and driver-focused functionality.

Intelligent by design

The RS e-tron GT performance combines extraordinary capability with intelligent technologies designed to make every journey more intuitive, convenient and reassuring. Working seamlessly in the background, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems supports the driver without detracting from the engaging driving experience that defines every RS model.

A standout feature is Remote Park Assist Plus, which enables the vehicle to manoeuvre into and out of parking spaces without the driver being seated inside. Using the intuitive myAudi app, the system controls the steering, acceleration and braking within system limits, while 12 ultrasonic sensors continuously monitor the vehicle's surroundings. It can assist with both parallel and perpendicular parking manoeuvres, as well as guide the vehicle back out of parking spaces when required.

Further enhancing everyday convenience are Park Assist Plus, Surround View Cameras and Power Steering Plus, making the vehicle remarkably easy to manoeuvre despite its flagship proportions.

Safety is equally well considered. Lane Departure Warning, Side Assist with Exit Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Assist, tyre pressure monitoring and a comprehensive airbag system work together to provide greater awareness and occupant protection across a wide range of driving situations. These technologies operate seamlessly in the background, giving drivers greater peace of mind without interrupting the connection between driver and machine.

Performance without compromise

True to its Gran Turismo character, the RS e-tron GT performance has been engineered to deliver extraordinary capability without sacrificing everyday usability. From rapid charging and impressive driving range to intelligent charging solutions, every aspect of the ownership experience has been designed to make high-performance electric mobility effortless.

The flagship RS model is underpinned by an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture, supporting DC charging at up to 320kW under ideal conditions. This enables the battery to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 18 minutes, helping drivers spend less time charging and more time behind the wheel. An 11kW onboard AC charger further supports convenient charging at home or at the workplace.

With an electric driving range of between 533 and 592 kilometres, the RS e-tron GT performance is equally at home on long-distance journeys as it is in everyday driving, staying true to the Gran Turismo philosophy that defines the model.

The comprehensive charging offering reflects Audi's commitment to making electric vehicle ownership as seamless as possible. Standard equipment includes the e-tron charging system compact, wall-mount clip, second charging port, Mode 3 public charging cable, South African domestic connector and an industrial CEE 32 A connector. Two additional industrial charging connectors are available as optional equipment, providing even greater flexibility across a variety of charging environments.

Pricing and availability

The new Audi RS e-tron GT performance is available to order through Audi e-tron dealerships nationwide:

Configured with an exceptionally comprehensive standard specification, the RS e-tron GT performance combines Audi's latest performance technologies with a broad range of personalisation options, allowing customers to tailor the vehicle to their individual preferences through a selection of exterior styling packages, roof options, RS Design Packages and Audi exclusive finishes.

Audi RS e-tron GT performance 550kW – R 4 906 100

The vehicle is sold with a 5-year/100,000 km Audi Freeway Plan, an 8-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty, and access to Audi Financial Services.