The automotive world is buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming 2026 Audi RS 5 Avant, a high-performance wagon set to take on the BMW M3 Touring. While Audi has yet to unveil the model officially, recent spy shots and digital renderings give us a glimpse of what’s to come.
Audi’s Sales Struggles and Strategic Shift
Audi, like other Volkswagen Group brands, faced a challenging 2024. The group’s total sales dropped to 9.03 million units, down from 9.24 million in 2023. Meanwhile, Toyota surged ahead, surpassing 9.85 million deliveries by November 2024.
Volkswagen remained the top-selling brand within the group, despite a 1.4% dip to 4.797 million units. However, Audi experienced a steeper decline of nearly 12%, with 1.919 million vehicles sold globally. In the U.S., the brand saw an even sharper 14% drop.
To counteract these declines, Audi is focusing on a refreshed lineup, streamlined operations, and high-performance models like the RS 5 Avant, which could serve as a crucial image booster.
A Digital Glimpse of the 2026 RS 5 Avant
Spy photographers caught the 2026 RS 5 Avant undergoing testing late last year, following the launch of the new Audi A5 lineup, which officially replaced the A4. While Audi has only revealed the A5 and S5 variants so far, fans are eagerly awaiting the RS 5 version from Audi Sport.
Unable to wait for the official reveal, automotive digital artist Avarvarii (Avarvarii Automotive Artworks) created a rendering of what the 2026 Audi RS 5 Avant might look like. Based on the latest spy shots from Wilco Blok, this interpretation is believed to be 90% accurate.
The rendering showcases:
- Signature oval tailpipes
- Aggressive styling with a more muscular stance
- Large wheels aiding in brake cooling
- Track-ready aerodynamics
The design hints at a wagon built to battle both on the streets and the racetrack against rivals like the BMW M3 Touring.
Electrified Power: A New Era for the RS 5 Avant?
Rumors suggest that Audi is taking performance to the next level with electrification. Reports indicate that the 2026 RS 5 Avant will feature a plug-in hybrid system paired with its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6.
Expected performance figures:
- Around 600 horsepower, a major leap from the previous RS 5’s 444 hp
- Positioned between the BMW M3 Competition Touring (503 hp) and the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance (671 hp)
With a blend of raw power and hybrid efficiency, the upcoming RS 5 Avant could redefine Audi’s high-performance lineup while aligning with the industry’s electrified future.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Audi RS 5 Avant is shaping up to be a serious contender in the high-performance wagon segment. If the rumors hold true, its electrified 600-hp powertrain and aggressive design will make it a direct threat to both BMW and Mercedes-AMG.