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Audi accidentally leaks RS5 PHEV, A2 E-Tron

Next-gen Audi RS5 teased briefly, apparently confirming rumours of a 375kW+ V6 PHEV

4 Feb 2026

POSTING on social media can be fraught, as Audi found out recently when it let slip on Linkedin a dribble of info on the upcoming high-performance B10 RS5 that will be plug-in hybrid powered. 
 
Based on information available, it seems the days of a two-door Audi RS5 are well and truly over, with only four-door coupe (Sportback) and wagon (Avant) body styles mentioned. 
 
The latest RS news was accompanied by unrelated information on Audi’s entry-level battery electric vehicle that will succeed the A1 light hatch and Q2 compact SUV with rumours that it will reprise the early-2000s A2 nameplate (likely with an E-Tron suffix) and share underpinnings with the Cupra Born electric small hatch. 
 
Audi's new electrified performance drivetrain will debut the marque’s ‘green tinged’ technology for the RS5 line-up, with derivatives filtering through to other RS models in due course. 
 
Its use has been rumoured across motoring media, with reports originating from publications Motor1 and Autoblog, both of which quoted Audi as stating: “The new Audi RS5 is also nearing its debut and will be our first performance plug-in hybrid. Furthermore, we will unveil a new electric entry model. Stay tuned to our channels so you don’t miss any news.” 
 
Audi has since deleted its “leak” referring to both the RS5 and A2 E-Eron but not before the gist of the RS5’s PHEV system was winkled, out suggesting it will not use a downsized four-cylinder combustion engine (in any RS models) but will continue with the outgoing B9 model’s 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 at its heart. 
 
Output speculation for the new RS5 PHEV powertrain is a stab in the dark at this point, suffice to say the current non-PHEV engine is good for a healthy 331kW and 600Nm. 
 
Add possibly two electric motors to that and the magnitude of the new RS5’s output can be gauged. 
 
Pundits have suggested the new RS5 will crest the 375kW mark and may stretch to 750Nm of torque.  
 
The decision to run with a V6 takes Audi in a different direction to rival Mercedes-Benz, which also went down the plug-in hybrid path a couple of years ago with its C63 using an electrified four-cylinder engine instead of a V8 – to almost universal online condemnation. 
 
Due to poor sales, production of the C63 four-banger is winding up this month in favour of a six cylinder PHEV powertrain for the MY26 model – just like Audi. 
 
Other RS5 points gleaned from various sources say the model will not be offered in coupe format, Audi hoping the sedan-esque Sportback will cover off demand in that area. 
 
Autoblog says spy shots reveal that the RS5 Sportback will have vents behind the front wheels like the most recent RS3, as well as a small wing on the edge of its tailgate.  
 
“At the front, a large Singleframe grille with diamond-shaped mesh will be flanked by a pair of upright grilles for cooling the brakes, among other components,” reports Autoblog. 
 
“Flush door handles are also evident … and large, oval tailpipes in a pronounced diffuser will help identify the M3 competitor, as will blistered rear fenders.”

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