Audi's twin-turbo RS5 has an angry new face

The Audi RS5 has undergone a subtle makeover from the designers in Ingolstadt with both the Coupe and Sportback models benefitting from bodywork changes all round.

Chief among which is the decision to redesign the main elements at the front of the car.

The single frame grill now sits lower and wider than on previous models, giving its snout a more aggressive look in following its bigger siblings, the RS6 and RS7. This has allowed the bonnet to incorporate an ‘80s Sport Quattro style, three part air vent above the grill, reminiscent of the iconic car.

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The lower front intakes are now bigger to further emphasise the movement to more grill area. Above these sit the new optional Matrix LED Headlights.

Two new colours are also available, with funky names to match-Tango Red and Turbo Blue; as well as the option to black out the four rings and RS badges on the car. Redesigned side sills and a new rear diffuser finish off the bodywork changes to this update.

Inside, the changes are also visible. A new 10.1-inch touchscreen display replaces the smaller, older spec, screen and if that is too feeble, there is also the option of a 12.3-inch display which gives more RS specific data. Bigger, aluminium paddles are also present.

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Audi’s love affair with alcantara continues in this facelift with the steering wheel, gear selector, sports seats and more containing aspects of the suede material.

The coupe model now has a carbon fibre roof which, according to Audi, reduces its weight by 4kg. The older 19-inch wheels are standard; however gloss black and matte bronze 20-inch options are available with the facelift.

Mechanically, this car features no changes. It still contains the same 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 through which both cars utilise their 331kW/600Nm to tackle the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds. There is no updated suspension or AWD system.

Australian pricing is not available yet, however it is not expected to be too far north of the current RS5, which costs $157,700 for both the Coupe and Sportback.