Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 15 July 2026
Audi looks set to expand its high-performance SUV line-up with the first-ever RS Q5, as new prototype sightings reveal the German brand is preparing to give its popular mid-size SUV the full RS treatment for the first time.
Camouflaged development vehicles have been spotted testing in Europe, offering the clearest indication yet that an RS-badged Q5 is on the way. While Audi has sold the Q5 for almost two decades, every generation has topped out with the SQ5, leaving the RS badge reserved for larger SUVs such as the RS Q8.
The latest prototypes leave little doubt about their identity. Quad oval exhaust outlets are joined by noticeably flared wheel arches, wider tracks and larger tyres, hinting at significantly upgraded performance credentials.
A high-voltage warning sticker also confirms the performance SUV will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Although Audi has yet to release technical details, the RS Q5 is expected to share much of its hardware with the recently unveiled RS 5. That would see the SUV powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 paired with an electric motor, producing around 470kW (630hp) and 825Nm.
The electrified drivetrain is expected to use a 25.9kWh battery pack, making it Audi Sport’s first plug-in hybrid performance SUV. However, the additional battery capacity is also likely to increase weight compared with existing petrol-powered RS models. Given the current SQ5 already outweighs the equivalent S5 Avant, the RS Q5 could become one of Audi Sport’s heaviest performance vehicles.
The arrival of the RS Q5 will also have implications beyond Audi.
Porsche is preparing a successor to the first-generation Macan, which ends production this year before an all-new replacement arrives in 2028. As with previous generations, the next Macan is expected to share its underpinnings with the Q5, meaning its future flagship variant could borrow heavily from the RS Q5’s plug-in hybrid technology.
The spy convoy also provided a glimpse of several other upcoming Audi Sport models.
Among them was the long-rumoured SQ9, Audi’s upcoming flagship performance SUV, identified by its quad exhaust outlets, while prototypes of the next-generation RS 6 Avant were also present.
Audi is also expected to revive the RS 6 Sedan, bringing the nameplate back after an absence of more than 15 years. The new four-door model is tipped to replace the outgoing RS7 Sportback in the performance line-up.
