Audi had a big presence at the Los Angeles Auto Show as they used event to stage the global debuts of the RS Q8 and e-tron Sportback. Of course, those weren’t the only models on display as the company also introduced the new RS 5 Panther Edition.
Available in both coupe and sportback form, the cars are dressed in stylish Panther Black crystal effect paint from Audi exclusive. They also ride on two-tone 20-inch alloy wheels that have been sourced from the European RS 4 Avant.
The unique styling continues in the cabin as the models have been equipped with an RS interior design package that features black Nappa leather seats with crescendo red contrast stitching. Drivers will also find black seatbelts with red edging, and black Alcantara upholstery on the steering wheel and center console. The changes aren’t massive, but Audi noted this is the first time the package has been offered in the United States.
Both the coupe and sportback are powered by a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 that produces 444 hp and 600 Nm of torque. It is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to a quattro all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the RS 5 Coupe to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 3.7 seconds, before hitting a top speed of up to 280 km/h. The RS 5 Sportback is a tad slower as the dash to 96 km/h takes 3.8 seconds, but the top speed remains the unchanged.
Production will be limited to 100 units, with 75 of them being sportbacks. The special edition will arrive at dealerships next month and pricing starts at US$ 88,000 – excluding a destination charge of US$ 995.
