Geneva 2010: Audi RS5

And even though the Audi A1 hatchback was the biggest news on the stand, there was an immovable crowd around the latest RS.

Gallery: the Audi RS5

The hard-as-nails looking Audi RS5 packs an all-new, hand-built 4.2-litre V8 which produces 450bhp and is capable of revving to 8,250rpm – impressive for a big V8.

That grunt means the Audi RS5 is good for a 4.6 second 0-62mph time and a limited 155mph maximum. But despite this prodigious performance, fuel economy is reasonable at 25.2mpg.

Audi’s seven-speed dual clutch S Tronic semi auto ‘box makes its debut in an RS-badged Audi and features a launch control setting.

The Dynamic Ride Control system is carried over from the Audi RS6, where it is devastatingly effective, and the familiar Audi Drive Select system will also feature.

The latter controls the exhaust valve flaps to make the engine note more sonorous during sporty driving, and a sports exhaust system will also be available as an option.

The Audi RS5 looks like the Audi S5, with the visual impact turned up to eleven. The flared wings are evocative of the original Audi Quattro and the front bumper houses the now-familiar lower intake grilles. Around the back a pair of huge exhausts dominate.

Audi says the RS5 will be available to order in the spring, with prices expected to be around £58,000.

More from the Geneva Motor Show 2010

Stuart Milne, deputy web editor