By Allyson 
The Audi RS e-tron GT Performance is a high-performance electric vehicle that pushes the boundaries of what an electric car can do, combining cutting-edge technology with exhilarating performance. In this review, we will break down its capabilities, driving experience, and notable design and engineering improvements.
Overview of the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance
The Audi RS e-tron GT Performance represents the pinnacle of Audi’s electric car lineup. This flagship electric sports sedan boasts a staggering 925 PS and a robust 1,270 Nm of torque, setting a new standard for high-speed electric driving. In addition to the raw power, Audi has equipped the RS e-tron GT with advanced features that improve its handling, comfort, and overall driving experience.
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First Impressions: Revisiting an Icon
Prototype Experience:
The first time I encountered the RS e-tron GT Performance was 8 months ago during a prototype drive in Oman. It was a remarkable experience, and Audi has now refined that prototype into a stunning production model. Although some of my recommendations made it to the final version, there’s no camel button for dodging potholes, but Audi has implemented a boost button, which delivers an additional 95 PS for 10 seconds, making the car even more thrilling.
Power and Performance
Unmatched Acceleration
One of the most jaw-dropping features of the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance is its rapid acceleration. The car produces 925 PS and rockets from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.5 seconds. Even more impressively, after warming the tires, I managed to shave the time down to 2.4 seconds. Launch control allows for optimal acceleration, but even without it, the e-tron GT delivers brutal performance, showing off Audi’s mastery of electric motor technology.
Boost Button Magic
The boost button provides an extra 95 PS, taking the power output to nearly 1,000 horsepower for a short burst. While this extra power might seem excessive for everyday driving, it comes in handy for track days or when you need that extra push for overtaking on the motorway. However, the core driving experience is so dynamic that I rarely felt the need to press it.
Advanced Suspension and Active Handling
Calibrated for Precision
Audi has fine-tuned the active suspension of the RS e-tron GT Performance to enhance both comfort and cornering stability. The car has two distinct modes for handling: Comfort Mode and RS Mode. In Comfort Mode, the car’s suspension adapts to provide a smooth, stable ride, even leaning slightly into corners for better balance. In RS Mode, the suspension stiffens to minimize body roll, providing razor-sharp handling that’s crucial for high-speed driving.
During my test runs, the e-tron GT felt planted and composed, even when cornering at high speeds. The suspension system kept the car’s body flat, making it easier to control and providing a dynamic driving experience that felt more like a race car than a luxury electric sedan.
Sleek and Aggressive Design
Exterior Enhancements
Visually, Audi has taken steps to make the RS e-tron GT Performance look even more aggressive than its predecessor. The redesigned front bumper features massive air intakes to cool the batteries and motors, while carbon camouflage accents give the car a stealthy, performance-oriented look. Additionally, Audi offers a matte carbon roof option and new wheel designs, further refining the aesthetics.
Interior Upgrades
The interior of the RS e-tron GT Performance has also seen a few changes. The highlight is the introduction of camouflage carbon trim on the dashboard and door panels, which gives the cabin a sporty and high-tech feel. While this is a welcome change, I was slightly disappointed that the center console still uses scratch-prone black plastic instead of the same carbon trim.
However, the updated flat-bottom steering wheel adds to the sporty vibe, and although it retains the somewhat controversial capacitive buttons, these are balanced by physical shortcut buttons for the RS modes and boost function.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Audi has equipped the RS e-tron GT Performance with a host of technological upgrades, including a revamped virtual cockpit and new features in the infotainment system. One notable addition is the integration of Amazon Alexa and ChatGPT, allowing for voice-assisted commands. Though I tested the system with a somewhat playful question about which animal would win in a fight (a horse or a pig), the tech worked flawlessly.
Performance on the Road
Ride Quality and Steering
One of the most significant improvements in the RS e-tron GT Performance is the refined ride quality. The previous model had a tendency for the suspension to feel a little out of control, particularly on uneven roads. Audi has addressed this by linking the suspension to active body control, keeping the car level during hard braking and acceleration.
The steering has also been enhanced. In the previous version, it could feel slightly woolly, especially when compared to rivals like the Porsche Taycan. However, in the updated version, the steering feels sharper and more responsive, giving the driver more confidence and control when pushing the car to its limits.
Battery and Range Improvements
Audi has upgraded the battery pack in the RS e-tron GT Performance, boosting its energy density to 97 kWh while simultaneously reducing its weight by 9 kg. These changes improve the car’s range and overall efficiency. The top-tier performance model is estimated to achieve 365 miles on a single charge under ideal conditions.
During my testing, I drove the RS e-tron GT hard on the track, performing numerous launches and pushing the car to its limits. Despite this, I was impressed to find that I had only used a third of the battery after multiple high-performance launches.
Key Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 925 PS (Boost: 95 PS for 10 seconds) |
| Torque | 1,270 Nm |
| 0-62 mph Acceleration | 2.5 seconds (2.4 seconds with launch control) |
| Top Speed | 155 mph |
| Battery Capacity | 97 kWh |
| Range (Performance Model) | 365 miles |
| Active Suspension Modes | Comfort Mode, RS Mode |
| Weight Reduction | 9 kg (battery) |
| Infotainment | Alexa, ChatGPT, Virtual Cockpit |
FAQs
- What is the top speed of the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance?
The car has a top speed of 155 mph. - How does the boost button work?
The boost button adds 95 PS for 10 seconds to give you a short burst of extra power. - What is the 0-62 mph time?
The official 0-62 mph time is 2.5 seconds, but with optimal conditions, it can be lowered to 2.4 seconds. - What is the driving range of the RS e-tron GT Performance?
The estimated range is 365 miles, depending on driving conditions and usage. - What are the standout features of the suspension system?
The car features an active suspension that adjusts based on driving modes to improve comfort or enhance performance by keeping the car level during cornering, acceleration, and braking. - How much does the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance cost?
The starting price for the performance model is $142,000. - What are the interior design highlights?
The RS e-tron GT Performance comes with camouflage carbon accents on the dashboard and door trims, and an updated steering wheel with capacitive touch buttons.
In conclusion, the Audi RS e-tron GT Performance is a thrilling high-performance EV that combines staggering acceleration with luxury, comfort, and state-of-the-art technology. Whether on a track or a winding country road, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience like no other.